Top 5 Slot Machine Themes

The basic mechanics of a slot machine are simple enough: players insert coins into the machine or use paper tickets with barcodes. The reels are spun and winning combinations earn credits according to the paytable. Symbols vary, depending on the theme, but typically include fruit, bells, and stylized lucky sevens. Most slot games have a theme and bonus features are aligned with the theme. Learn more about slot machine themes below!

Payback percentage

To maximize your payoff odds, you need to understand the payback percentage of slots. Although most casinos won’t disclose the percentages, a standard payback for slot machines is 92%. However, you should note that the payback percentage of video poker machines is much higher. This type of slot machine can pay up to 99%, which is much higher than the 92% average for slot machines. So, it is recommended to play video poker instead of slots if you want to improve your payoff odds.

Wild symbols

Having wild symbols in slot machines is a great way to boost your payouts. They can be expanded or stacked and can be even more exciting when they are Trailing Wilds. Trailing Wilds replicate the Wild symbol on the reels and immerse the entire row below. Once a Wild symbol reaches the bottom of the reels, it triggers a respin. All Wild symbols have their own unique properties but are equally entertaining.

Scatter symbols

A game’s scatter symbols are icons that can show up anywhere on the reels, awarding a bonus game or free spins in the same slot machine. A scatter symbol can also represent any bonus feature, such as mini-games or free spins. In many ways, scatter symbols are among the highest-paying symbols in slots. If they appear three times or more, they will trigger the bonus feature, which is usually a free spin.

Carousel slot machines

Known for their classic carnival feel, Carousel slot machines have been a hit with slot players for over two decades. These games have an innovative 720-ways-to-win mechanic that pays out when you match three or more identical symbols in a row. The reels feature eight regular symbols, plus two bonus icons. The standard symbols pay between two and twenty coins, while the bonus wild symbol and scatter icon can each pay up to a thousand coins.

Random number generator

A random number generator is the core of all slot machines. These machines generate random numbers that are impossible to predict. This is the most secure method for creating slot machines, and it helps ensure fair gaming. A random number generator generates numbers according to a complex algorithm that corresponds to the symbols on the reels. Even if a slot machine has this safety feature, players can still make bets on the outcomes. So, how does the random number generator work?