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Gayle Mitchell answers another round of questions about
slot machines and slots strategy
by Gayle Mitchell
The following article provides five Questions &Answers sent to me as Editor
of Casino Players Ezine: Slots Newsletter.
Q. My question relates to Progressive/Mega Slots that are linked
either within a casino or externally in various casinos. Is the Jackpot triggered
from the RNG within each individual machine or is there an external "jackpot
selector" that triggers the winning combination and the machine that it will
hit on? The problem I'm having a hard time with, is that the popular big dollar
progressives have a variety of games you can play. As an example, let's use
Wheel of Fortune. You can play WOF on a mix of games within a casino. I've seen
them as Double Diamond, Triple Diamond, Five Times Pay, Ten Times Pay, Red White
and Blue, etc. Obviously, these individual games all have differing odds and/or
hit frequencies. Therefore, how are players given an equal chance at 'hitting
the big one' even though they are playing games that have a wide variance in
odds and hit frequency?
A. Each game has a separate RNG and I confirmed my answer with
IGT. Their reply follows: IGT answer: Yes, each individual game has its own
Random Number Generator, which independently determines the game outcome. For
the Wheel of Fortune dollar games, each game on the wide area progressive link
has equal odds of winning the top award.
Q. I play slots and like the 5x and 10x payout types the most
even though the percentage payout is less. When you do hit with one of the multiples
occasionally, it really counts. Could you tell me which is more advantageous
to play: Dollar slot-2 coins-5x machine 50 cent-2 coins-10x machine Certainly
enjoy your columns and good advice!
A. Both choices sound tempting. I tend to lean towards the
dollar 5X but here's a suggestion. Take an equal amount and play both, and then
determine which was the biggest winner. I would try this test in three casinos
and/or three different days and analyze for a trend.
Q. My wife and I visit casinos about 6-8 times a year. I noticed
many of the slots are now multi-denomination, 25, 50 and 1.00. My question is,
typically a 25-cent machine will have a lower payout percentage than $1.00 machines.
Yet in a single machine with all three denominations available is the little
brain inside making that distinguishing change when you play up? If not then
are you getting a better break at 25 cents play (that would be a first) or getting
hurt by playing dollars? Could this be just another gimmick for the casinos
to lower overall payout like with the 5 cent ($ 2.25 +) multi line/bonus machines?
A. Yes, there is a 'little brain' in the multi-denoms for each
denomination. Therefore, if you are playing dollars for that particular version,
the payouts will be higher.
Q. I have a question about slot host. Do you tip them? Do you
give them gifts? What is the best way to get the best service from your host?
A. That depends on you and the service you received. If is
was above and beyond with more than usual freebies, then a tip and gift from
an upscale boutique is in order. If average, then tip only, if permitted. I
would contact the hotel to find out if their slots hosts can accept tips (some
do not permit). For best service, call your slot host ahead of time and let
them know what your preferences are--customize your visit. Are you looking for
spa benefits, specific dining, room preferences, etc?
Q. Can it be assumed based that Slots, almost anywhere in the
US are a 'bad bet' and likely one of the worst?
A. The answer to your question is, No, slots is not the worst
bet because of a couple of factors. Slots can be a good bet. There's no denying
it is the most popular game and the least intimidating at casinos online and
off. Let's make a comparison to table games. To quote, your top payout of 94.7%
for slots and round up to 95%, the casino pc, or house advantage would be 5%.
Certain bets for craps, double zero roulette, baccarat and yes, even playing
without strategy in blackjack can earn the casino more than 5% of your gambling
bankroll. In addition, there's the 'grind' of playing these games. As I state
in my EBooks, slots is a good bet if you play 'full-pay' Video Poker, at a bank
of 'guaranteed payback' slot machines, a locals’ Vegas casino, any casino with
more than 3 competitors close by, dollar+ slots, certain slot versions as with
single payline basic slots and online casinos that are audited and report payouts.
Gayle Mitchell
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