Online Slots are structured around specific terminology that helps you and other players understand the game’s mechanics.
These terms are essential for navigating the different features and options available in online Slots and understanding payouts and gameplay.
Basic online slot terms
- Reels: Vertical sections on the slot screen that spin when you press the “Spin” button. Most online Slots have between three and five reels, although some games have more.
- Paylines: Lines on which matching combinations of symbols need to align for a payout. Modern Slots often feature multiple paylines, which can run horizontally, diagonally, or even in zig-zag patterns. Some games use fixed paylines, while others allow you to choose the number of active paylines.
- Symbols: Icons or images on the reels. Each slot game has its own unique symbols, and they vary in value.
- Wild symbol: A special symbol that substitutes for other symbols on the reels to help form matching combinations. There are different types of wilds, including expanding wilds (which cover an entire reel), sticky wilds (which remain in place for several spins), and stacked wilds (which appear in groups).
- Scatter symbol: This symbol triggers specific features, often a bonus round or free spins, regardless of where it appears on the reels. Unlike regular symbols, scatter symbols do not need to align on a payline to activate their function.
Payout-related terms
- Return to player (RTP): This is the percentage of all wagered money a slot machine is programmed to pay back to players over time. For example, a slot with a 96% RTP will theoretically return 96 coins for every 100 coins wagered. RTP is a long-term statistic and doesn’t guarantee outcomes for individual sessions.
- Volatility: This measures a slot’s risk level. High-volatility Slots are likely to pay out less frequently but may offer larger amounts when they do. Low-volatility Slots pay out more often but with smaller amounts. Medium volatility falls between these extremes, balancing payout frequency with potential amounts.
- Payout percentage: Similar to RTP, this refers to the average percentage of money returned to players over time. Higher payout percentages indicate better potential returns, although they are not guaranteed in any session.
- Paytable: An in-game menu that shows each symbol’s value, the game’s rules, and details on special features or bonuses. The paytable can help you understand how combinations are formed and what each one pays.
Betting terms
- Bet size: The total amount wagered on a single spin. You can often adjust your bet size based on coin value or by choosing the number of active paylines and coins per line.
- Coin value: The value assigned to each coin used in the game. You can increase or decrease the total bet size per spin by adjusting the coin value.
- Bet level: You can choose the number of coins to bet per line. Increasing the bet level raises the total wager and, potentially, the payout if a matching combination lands.
- Max bet: A setting that automatically wagers the highest amount possible on all paylines for a single spin.
Underage gambling is an offence. You must be over 18 years old to gamble.
Any form of gambling should always be fun, playing in a way that is right for you. It’s good to set limits, take time out or set up reminders.
Please gamble responsibly and in moderation.
For more information on the tools available to help to keep you safe or if you want advice or support you can call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 (England, Scotland and Wales or visit Gamblingtherapy.org).
