Types of slot machine

Since the 1980s, when the first video and computer controlled slot machines appeared in casinos, the number of different types and styles of machines has virtually exploded.

To get a better understanding of the seeming endless variety of casino floors today, we will begin by organising them into the following four families.

1. Spinning Reel Slots
2. Video Slots
3. Progressive Slots

1. Spinning Reel Slots

These are machines with actual mechanical spinning reels, although the reels are completely computer controlled. Specific strategies for playing reel spinners are covered in a later chapter. The major kinds are as follows :

2. Video Slots

These are the newest generation of machines where the spinning reels are simulated on a video screen. The playing strategies for most video games are quite different than for reel spinners and are covered in a separate section. The major kinds are :

3. Progressive Slots

These slots have a dynamic top jackpot that grows larger by pooling a fraction of each wager as the games are played. Groups of machines are usually linked together, all contributing to the same progressive jackpot. Progressive playing strategy is significantly different than the strategies used for reel spinners or video games, and is therefore covered in its own chapter. The major kinds of progressive machines are :

4. Penny slots

With the ability to wager anywhere from a single penny up to 1,000 on a single pull, penny slots are giving slot fans the flexibility to play some of the hottest titles at any denomination they choose... [more]