What Are the Functions of a Slot Machine?

When you place your bet on a slot machine and press the “spin” button (or pull an arm on older machines), symbols line up randomly to form a winning combination. Your winnings are determined by the outcome of that spin and can range from small rewards to jackpot payouts. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, understanding the different functions of a slot game can help you play more efficiently and increase your chances of winning.

Payouts

Winning combinations on a slot machine are called pay lines and can run horizontally, vertically or diagonally, and can also include wild symbols that can replace other symbols for bigger payouts. Today’s slots feature multiple pay lines, which can vary in number from 10 to more than 100. A higher number of paylines can mean larger potential payouts, but also requires a higher bet per spin.

Pay tables

A pay table in a slot game provides players with important information, including payouts, bonuses and more. The pay table typically features a table with rows and columns that show various combinations of symbols, with the highest combinations at the top and decreasing combinations toward the bottom. Some pay tables are displayed on-screen, while others are available through a ’help’ or ‘i’ button on the machine’s touch screen.

In addition to paying out winning combinations, slot machines can also offer progressive jackpots, which increase in size every time a bet is placed. These jackpots can reach colossal amounts, and are often advertised on the machine.