That Are Better Off Dispelled

Like many forms of gambling, there have been plenty of slot myths that have popped up; these can range from superstitious rituals to full blown lies that are better off dispelled. Below are some the most popular myths that have arisen around slot machines:

Online slots aren’t “real slots” as “real” slots are mechanical

While this may have been true a very long time ago, it is currently one of the very outdated slot myths. Even “real life” slot machines make use of digital technology; inside they contain a chip which uses a random number generator to decide whether or not it should pay out. Online slot machines also use random number generators, meaning that there is practically little difference between the two types of game.

Pulling a handle is more likely to win that pressing ‘spin’

This slot myth relates to the above point, but is still a surprisingly popular one! In truth, both pressing ‘spin’ and pulling a handle activate the same random number generator that dictates payouts; this means that one is not better, or more likely to result in a win, than the other.

Slots have ‘hot’ and ‘cold’ cycles

This is perhaps the most popular slot machine belief of all. As slots operate via a random number generator, there are not blatant cycles which relate to win ratios. However, it is true that simple laws of odds mean that you have an elevated chance of winning on a particular slot machine if you have just witnessed somebody lose on it many times in a row…

Slot Machines are the worst gamble at a casino

There are plenty worse gamblers in the casino. Take a stroll down to the keno lounge or wheel of fortune, make some of the high percentages bets at craps, bet a parlay at the sports book. An average loose machine pays better than roulette. Next time a friend tells you how bad your odds are at the slots, hear a little more about what they play and bets they make. You may be getting the better end of the bargain.

Slot machine managers know when certain machines are due to pay out

If a slots manager knew a machine was about to spit out the sweet land of milk and honey, believe me, you wouldn't be the one playing the machine. You'd be watching his or her mother, spouse, or other family member out at that machine.

If I had only played that machine a little longer!

Because of the random number generators located in all modern slot machines, the possible symbol combinations are constantly changing. To achieve the same results, both players would have had to hit the spin button at the exact same millisecond (that's 1/1000 of a second).

That machine just hit. I'd better find another machine, because this one isn't going to pay again anytime soon.

Although the laws of probability dictate that the longer a machine is played, the closer it gets to paying off a jackpot, it is equally likely that a jackpot could hit at any time, including the next spin.

Please feel free to send us your favourite slot myths on [email protected] and we will add them to this article.