This article explains the main differences between a progressive slot and a regular non-progressive slot, and how to tell if a slot is progressive.
What are the differences between progressive slots and non-progressive slots?
In the world of casino games, particularly slot machines, there are two main type of slots: progressive slots and non-progressive slots. Each offers a unique strategy for the slot player, whether they're playing in an online casino slot or visiting a land-based casino slot.
Here are the main differences:
- Jackpot Type: Progressive jackpot slots feature a jackpot amount that increases with each play across a network, making for life-changing potential wins. Conversely, non-progressive jackpot slots offer a fixed jackpot, where the maximum payout is set and does not change.
- Winning Potential: The appeal of a progressive slot machine lies in the huge jackpot, which can accumulate to millions of dollars, offering a big jackpot win to a lucky few. Non-progressive machines, while offering smaller payouts, tend to award wins more frequently.
- Bet Requirements: To qualify for the progressive jackpot, players often need to bet the maximum amount, requiring a larger bankroll. Non-progressive slots are more flexible, allowing for various betting options and longer playtime without depleting funds as quickly.
- Game Complexity: Progressive jackpot slots may include more complex features, multiple paylines, and bonus rounds to improve the gaming experience. Regular slots typically focus on straightforward gameplay, with a set number of reels and simpler payline structures.
Are the odds better on progressive slots?
When it comes to playing slot games, understanding the odds becomes a crucial part of the gaming strategy. Specifically, many players wonder if progressive jackpot games offer better odds compared to their non-progressive counterparts.
The key to answer this question lies in understanding how the return to player (RTP) and the random number generator (RNG) work.
RTP, or return to player, is a percentage that indicates the average amount of money that will be paid back to players over time. In general, regular slot games tend to have a higher RTP compared to progressive slots. For those playing slot games strictly for better odds of winning real money, non-progressive slots might be the more appealing option.
The reason behind this is simple: progressive slots allocate a portion of each bet to the progressive jackpot, which can slightly lower the RTP for individual players not winning the jackpot.
On the other hand, the RNG, or random number generator, ensures that each spin on a slot machine is entirely random, offering every player an equal chance at hitting a winning combination. Whether it's a progressive or a non-progressive slot, the RNG doesn't differentiate.
However, because progressive jackpot games offer the chance for a lucky player to win a life-changing sum, they typically attract more players despite potentially lower odds reflected in the RTP.
It's crucial for players to decide what they value more: the excitement of chasing a massive progressive jackpot or the potentially better odds of winning smaller amounts more frequently on non-progressive slots.
How can you tell if a slot machine is progressive?
Identifying a progressive slot machine is straightforward when you know what to look for. The key indicator is the jackpot prize display, which is prominently featured on progressive slots.
Unlike stand-alone machines that offer a fixed jackpot, progressive slots showcase a prize pool that increases in real-time. This jackpot grows with every bet placed on the machine or across a network of connected machines, reflecting the accumulating prize that a lucky player can win.
Often, this is displayed on an overhead screen or integrated digital display, highlighting the current jackpot amount that far exceeds the fixed amounts seen on non-progressive slots.
Watching the prize pool increase can add to the excitement of playing, as it visualizes the potential for a life-changing win with each spin.
Which slot should you play?
It depends on what you want to play. Choose progressive slots for life-changing jackpot potential or regular slots for more frequent wins and simpler gameplay.
What is the biggest win in a progressive slot?
The biggest win in a progressive slot was on Mega Moolah, totaling $20,062,600.