How to Read a Pay Table When Playing Slots
A slot in a game is a dynamic placeholder that either waits for content (passive slot) or uses a targeter to fill it with content (active slot). Slots are used in conjunction with scenarios and have several key properties that you should be familiar with.
Unlike blackjack or poker where punters can improve their odds by learning the game’s strategy, slots are pure chance. Therefore, one of the only skills that will help you minimize losses and maximize enjoyment is bankroll management.
Reading a pay table is essential when you play a slot because it will tell you the minimum and maximum bet amounts that can be placed on the game. It will also include information on how many paylines there are, the symbols on those paylines, potential payouts and jackpot amounts. In addition, it will explain any additional features that the slot may have including free spins rounds and mystery pick games.
In addition, a pay table will list the return-to-player rate of the slot, which is the percentage of total money returned to a player on average. The table will also indicate whether the slot is high or low variance. Low-variance slots tend to award smaller wins more frequently, whereas high-volatility slots offer less frequent but larger payouts. Low-volatility slots are ideal if you’re on a tight session budget as they can reduce the chances of your bankroll being wiped out quickly. High-volatility slots, on the other hand, can require large bankrolls to last through long spells of losing spins.