Understanding some key Slots mechanics

When you picture a casino, you probably imagine rows of slot machines, alongside classic table games like Blackjack or Roulette. Slots have been a staple of casinos for many decades now, but do you understand their mechanics?

With modern slot games featuring even more mechanics than ever before, from cascading reels and multi-paylines to bonus games, it’s easy to get lost among all the bright graphics. But if you want to understand a bit more about how Slots work then you’re in the right place.

So, read on if you’re ready to improve your knowledge of some of the key mechanics you’ll find in games like Epic Ape 2.

Random number generation

The single most important part of any slot machine is its random number generator (RNG). This is what determines the outcome of every spin of the game, independently of any external factors.

The RNG generates thousands upon thousands of random numbers every second. These numbers relate to the potential outcome of a spin, with each of them corresponding to the symbols that appear on the reels.

A slot machine’s RNG undergoes rigorous testing before it can enter a game, so you know that the result of a spin on any verified slot game is completely random. It’s impossible to predict the outcome of an RNG-powered spin, keeping players guessing until the reels stop.

Paylines

In classic slot machines, and many modern ones, the payline is where players look to see if they’ve got a matching combination or not. If the correct set of symbols line up on the payline then that’s a win.

Where the fruit machines of old had a single, central payline that isn’t the case with many slot games played today. You’re more likely to encounter games that feature multiple paylines, which can range from just a handful to hundreds in a single game.

But you don’t always play with all paylines activated on games, with players having the option to increase their wager to play with a higher number of active paylines. With more paylines active there are higher odds of getting one complete line, but this is balanced out by a higher wager.

Cluster Pays slots

Not every game features paylines. Cluster Pays slots put a spin on the traditional game by swapping out paylines for clusters. Winning combinations don’t form based on lines, but rather when a set appears in a group.

A cluster requires matching symbols to touch on any of their four sides, provided that enough of the same symbols are found next to each other. This means that combinations can appear anywhere on the screen, creating the potential for even greater gameplay variety.

Typically, matching combinations will also clear off the screen once formed, making way for more clusters to potentially form.

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We’ve only just scratched the surface of the various mechanics you’ll find in modern slot machines. From Megaways to Blitz, there are so many different kinds of slot games out there to play and all of them add different twists to the standard gameplay formula.