Slot Machine FAQ

Mike: Hello! I'm Mike Shackleford from internetradiomercedes.com, and I'm here with Angela Wyman. Angela, I believe you have some inquiries regarding slot machines that you would like to discuss with me.

Angela: Indeed, I have numerous questions regarding slot machines to ask you.

Mike: I\"m all yours.

Question 1 - [00:18]

Angela: To start off, as someone new to slot machines, what advice can you give me on how to locate a reliable machine? Should I search on the strip, in downtown, or perhaps somewhere else? Where can I find the best slot machines to begin my gaming experience?

Mike: Generally speaking, the more upscale the casino, the tighter the slots tend to be. While it's tempting to play in a luxurious setting, keep in mind the trade-off involved; they typically tighten the slots in exchange for the experience. For better odds, it’s wise to venture away from the strip, where you’ll often find favorable conditions. Although you can't visually identify whether a slot is tight or loose, if a casino is known for having generous video poker odds, it usually indicates their slots are also more player-friendly. For instance, if a casino has many 9/6 Jacks or Better machines, which offer a return of 99.54%, they’re likely to have looser slots available as well.

Question 2 - [01:43]

Angela: That's impressive! Can you mention any specific casinos that generally offer looser slots?

Mike: Back in 2001, I conducted a comprehensive survey of Las Vegas to find out which casinos had the loosest slots. I used PAR sheets to identify machine patterns and determine their payout settings. At that time, the Palms was the standout for having generous slots, situated off the strip. They also featured excellent video poker options. However, this information is now over a decade old, and with new management, it may have changed.

As for downtown, it used to be an excellent spot for good odds, but things have shifted. Overall, if you choose casinos away from the strip or downtown, such as the Coast Casinos, Station Casinos, Fiesta Casinos, South Point, or the M, you’re likely to encounter more favorable slot machines since these establishments cater to a discerning local audience that demands better odds.

Question 3 - [03:18]

Angela: Great! Once I've chosen the right casino, especially one that's off the strip and appeals to locals, how should I go about selecting a slot machine?

Mike: That’s a smart question. Try to avoid machines that boast extravagant features like large displays, elaborate sounds, or flashy seats, as these enhancements often come at the cost of tighter odds. While it’s true that many people find those games entertaining, if you’re focused on maximizing your odds, opt for a straightforward machine without all the flashy additions—keep it uncomplicated.

Question 4 - [04:23]

Angela: If I pick a simple machine without all the extra frills in a casino that's welcoming, should I sign up for the casino's Players Rewards Card? Will it benefit me or hinder my experience?

Mike: Without a doubt, signing up for the Players Rewards Card is beneficial—there's no downside! If you're planning to play any games, including table games, enroll in the player club and always use your card. This will track your gameplay and accumulate points. Most casinos allow you to redeem these points for free play, items, or even cash. Moreover, they will send you special offers, and slot players are treated exceptionally well—often better than high-stakes table game players. The more you wager, the better your rewards will be. I’m not suggesting you bet recklessly, but if you're playing anyway, it’s smart to get those rewards. Make it a habit to use your card, as I've missed out on tracking my play before and regretted not having done so.

Angela: Maximizing those rewards is vital to fully enjoying the Vegas atmosphere, especially since people love the idea of free buffets, show tickets, and perks that come with it.

Angela: You just indicated that the amount of money you wager is directly related to these rewards. So, how does the comping system operate? How can I know what to expect, and where should I inquire about what the casino offers? Is there a specific desk for questions?

Mike: Absolutely.

Question 5 - [06:06]

Mike: Absolutely! You can ask any questions at the player club desk, which every casino has. However, keep in mind that they may not always have the answers—especially if you ask something nuanced, like how points are earned on a bingo game. Additionally, some casinos implement complex rewards programs; Total Reward Program, for example, is notoriously intricate. Still, it’s always worth inquiring about anything you’re curious about.

Angela: I want to turn back to slot machines and clarify some points I’ve heard regarding them. While I’m trying to accumulate points and gain comps, there’s chatter that casinos can adjust the slot machines remotely. Is that true, and if so, can they modify the settings while I'm currently playing?

Question 6 - [06:53]

Mike: That’s an interesting point. The term you're looking for is Server Side Gaming. Traditionally, if a casino manager wants to adjust a machine's settings, they must physically open the machine and replace what’s known as an EPROM card to alter the return rates. This requires them to send a form to the Gaming Control Board since regulators must oversee each machine's settings to ensure compliance.

Fortunately, newer technology enables casinos to make adjustments remotely, saving time. However, you might wonder if a manager could change the machine's settings to be less favorable based on a player’s appearance—like wearing a polka-dotted hat. The answer is no; they can't make changes while you’re actively playing. I believe there’s a policy stating the machine must be inactive for a certain period, like 15 minutes, before they are allowed to alter it.

Angela: So, the machines can only be altered by casino staff, but I've also heard rumors that machines start out loose to draw players in and then tighten up—a programmed feature. Is there any truth to that?

Mike: That's largely a myth. Typically, a slot machine is programmed to pay a consistent return rate, say around 94%, which it maintains over time. This doesn't mean it pays out precisely 94% every hour or day; rather, that's a long-term theoretical figure. There aren’t any cycles of 'loose' or 'tight' periods—unless the settings are adjusted by a physical or remote intervention, the odds remain unchanged.

Angela: So, you’re confirming that machines aren’t on a cycle where they run hot or cold, and the idea that a machine is 'due' to hit is false, correct?

Question 7 - [09:06]

Mike: That is exactly right. A machine is never considered 'overdue' for a payout. Many believe after losing for an extended time that the machine must be close to hitting a jackpot, but that’s not the case. Your chances of hitting a big payout remain the same, regardless of prior outcomes—whether the machine just paid out moments ago or you haven't had any wins all day.

Angela: That's a bit disheartening! [chuckles] I was hoping I could spot a machine that was about to give a big win just after someone walked away. [laughs]

Explore the Top Online Casinos in Your Region

Question 8 - [10:29]

Calculator for Lottery Jackpot Ticket Sales

Participate in Slot Tournaments Offering Huge Cash Prizes

Mike: Hello, my name is Mike Shackleford from internetradiomercedes.com, and I'm joined by Angela Wyman here today. Angela, I understand you have some inquiries regarding slot machines.

Angela: That's correct. I have a number of questions about slot machines for you.

Question 9 - [13:02]

Angela: So, as someone who's new to playing slot machines, what initial advice can you provide about selecting a good machine? Should I focus on the Strip, or is downtown a better option? Where are the ideal places to begin my search for the best slot machines?

Mike: Generally speaking, the more upscale the casino, the tighter their slots tend to be. While you might want to enjoy a beautiful casino, it's important to recognize that this usually comes with a cost. In general, the odds of winning improve the further away you go from the Strip. It's also important to note that, while you can't tell just by looking at a slot machine if it has generous or stingy odds, if a casino has loose video poker machines, they likely also have more favorable slots. You can check the pay tables and expected returns, with resources like my website indicating that a 9/6 Jacks or Better machine offers a return of 99.54%. If you find a casino with multiple 9/6 Jacks machines, you can expect they also have loose slots.

Angela: Interesting. Can you mention any specific casinos that are known for having looser slot machines?

Mike: Back in 2001, I conducted a citywide survey in Las Vegas to determine which casinos had the loosest slots. I utilized PAR sheets to analyze patterns in the machines, which helped me find out their return rates. At that time, the Palms was recognized as having the loosest slots in Las Vegas and it is located off the Strip. They also offered excellent video poker options. Keep in mind that this survey was conducted over a decade ago, and management changes might alter the situation, so I can't verify their current status.

Regarding downtown, although it historically had favorable odds, that has changed. Generally, if you go to any off-Strip casino that isn't downtown, you should find relatively loose slots. Particularly, look into Coast Casinos, Station Casinos, Fiesta Casinos, South Point, and the M, as these venues vigorously compete for the local market, and they know that locals prefer favorable odds, leading them to set their machines looser compared to those on the Strip where customer loyalty is less consistent.

Angela: Well, thank you very much, Mike.

Written by: Michael Shackleford