OK, so you want to play slots? And the flashing lights and mermaid symbols look enticing…so you should just go ahead right? Well…wrong, actually. There are a wide variety of slots available and understanding the different types is crucial. Why? Selecting the right machine prevents mistakes such as over-betting. The slot that you play should be chosen by type, rather than design. Familiarise yourself with the different types summarised below, and decide which is right for you. Only then should the design affect your choice of slot machine.

Progressive Jackpot

A Progressive Jackpot is a slot which is directly affected by the players. Each time a player bets into a Progressive Jackpot, the amount that can be won increases. It continues to increase until claimed. The current amount is displayed on the slot at all times. To win the full amount the player must be in Bet Max mode. If playing single lines and the winning combination is hit, a set amount will still be won but not the progressive amount in full. Once the Progressive Jackpot is won, the total returns to a preset amount, and it begins to increase as soon as it is played again.

Multi-line

Each line on a Multi-line slot is a single bet. Choose the coin size first, and then the number of lines. The full bet amount is the stake per line multiplied by the number of lines activated. The paylines show once activated, and a winning combination must show in one of the activated paylines to be eligible to win. There are some alternatives to this rule such as the Scatter Symbol.

Multi-spin

Multi-spin slots are a fast paced choice, as they have more than one set of reels. After the initial spin, choose which reels you wish to hold and then spin the rest. Most casinos offer an Auto Hold function which immediately holds the best reels. These can be deselected by clicking on the hold button. Multi Spin slots provide more ways to win and do not rely solely on full reel combinations to award a payout.

Bet Max

This feature enables you to bet the maximum amount in a single click. Only players using Bet Max are eligible for the full Progressive Jackpots amount on Progressive slots. The full bet amount is shown on the slot in the Total Bet section.

Bonus Rounds

Make sure you look at the bonus rounds carefully. Some are reliant on winning combinations landing on activated lines only. Others can be accessed through symbols which can be visible anywhere on the slot, regardless of the number of activated lines.

Remember: the type of slot can overlap: e.g. Multi-Line Progressive Jackpot. However, these still have the same basic features. Make sure you read the rules to make sure you fully understand the game before playing. Still confused? Then play for free until you are confident.