How do online slot games work?

In the space of two decades, online Slots have taken the crown for the most popular variety of online casino game. It’s not hard to see why, with so many different varieties for players to choose from and such a straightforward core design.

It doesn’t matter whether you’re playing a classic fruit machine or a game like Eye of Horus Jackpot King, understanding how online Slots work is important before spinning the reels. Read on to learn more about the details of the technology and principles behind online slot games.

Random number generator technology

At the core of every online slot game is the Random Number Generator (RNG), a complex algorithm that ensures each outcome is completely random and independent from previous spins. The RNG continuously generates thousands of random number sequences per second, even when the game is not being played.

When a player presses the spin button, the RNG locks in its current set of random numbers. Each of these will correspond to a specific location of a symbol on the reels, determining where they land when the animation completes.

This process guarantees that all results are entirely fair and that no external factors can influence the outcome. Any reputable online casino will have their RNG systems regularly tested and audited by independent firms to ensure their outcomes remain completely unbiased.

Paylines

Even the earliest slot machine designs featured a payline. This was the central horizontal line that the symbols needed to land on to create a matching combination. But online Slots typically feature more than just that one central payline.

In fact, some Slots can have dozens to hundreds of potential paylines that players can activate. How many paylines are in play typically depends on the size of the wager, with more or less being active.

But there are also online slot games that don’t use paylines at all. These games use different mechanics to determine matching combinations, such as clusters.

Cluster Slots require a set number of matching symbols to land adjacent to each other on the reels in order to count as a combination. This means that clusters can form in multiple directions, rather than having to be on a set line.

Return to player (RTP) and volatility

Outside of the mechanics of gameplay, it’s also important to understand the return to player (RTP) percentage and volatility. These are both factors that impact how different online slot games work relative to each other.

The RTP percentage indicates the theoretical amount that a slot is expected to pay back to players over an extended period. This is calculated over millions of potential spins, so it’s no indicator of any short-term outcomes – but it can help to differentiate the relative returns of various Slots.

Volatility also plays a central role in how online Slots work. Slot games with low volatility will generally offer more frequent but smaller payouts, while high volatility Slots will give larger payouts on a less frequent basis.

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With the combination of RNG and various animations, online slot games are able to deliver random outcomes on every spin of the reel. Understanding how these games work and the differences between varieties is important to help players decide on which Slots suit their personal preferences.

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Adam Regan

Deputy Editor

Features and account management. 3 years media experience. Previously covered features for online and print editions.

Email Adam@MarkMeets.com