Slot Machine Myths
Because slot machines are so popular in the casinos, and because so many people play them every day, many myths about the machines have sprung up over the years. Here are some common misconceptions about slot machines—and why they are untrue.
1.) You left a slot machine, and then someone else immediately won a jackpot on that very same slot machine. If you had stayed and played on that slot machine a little longer, you would have won that jackpot!
This belief is very common—many people kick themselves for leaving a particular machine when another person wins a jackpot on that machine soon afterwards.
It is unlikely that you would have won the jackpot if you had stayed at that particular machine. Slot machines operate through computer programs that use a Random Number Generator. This means that with each lever pull or button push, the player has an equal chance to win the jackpot.
2.) Counting the symbols on each reel can tell you the odds of winning.
The number of symbols on the reels has nothing to do with the odds of winning. The odds are determined by the computer program of the slot machine.
3.) Casino managers can control the slot machines with a flip of a switch.
Casinos cannot loosen or tighten the payback percentage or change the payout odds of any slot machine by flipping any switch—no such switch exists.
Slot machines contain a computer chip—one that is preset at the factory—that determines the machine’s odds. These chips are expensive and not very easy to change. Changing the chips often requires paperwork submission to the Casino Control Commission. This is the only way that slot machine odds can be changed—and, since it is expensive, difficult, and time-consuming, casinos very rarely do this.
4.) Slot machines that have not had recent payouts are due to have a payout soon.
This is not true. Since slot machines use the Random Number Generator, each lever pull or button push represents a brand new chance for a payout. So, slot machines that have not had recent payouts may or may not have payouts soon—there is no way to tell.
5.) Coin temperature affects how a slot machine plays.
Slot machines are simply that—machines. They do not feel temperature. It does not matter at all if you use coins that are cold, warm, or hot.
6.) Using a slot club card causes slot machines to pay out less.
Again, since the Random Number Generator determines payouts, this is untrue. Using your slot club card has nothing to do with payouts.
And, using your slot club card can actually give you advantages to you—it can give you extra perks from the casino—so go ahead and use it.
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