The Science
of Slots

Uncover the science behind the screen, from Random Number Generators to volatility. Understanding how machines actually work helps you set a budget and play with a clear sense of the odds.

How to Play

The Goal?

Spin a winning combination of symbols as defined in the pay table.

  • Set a budget. Make sure you stick to it. At Massachusetts casinos, you can use PlayMyWay right at your slot machine to track your play and receive automatic notifications when you reach certain budget milestones.
  • Choose a machine denomination. Select a machine that fits your budget. Remember that the “denomination” is the cost of one credit, not necessarily the cost of one full spin.
  • PlayWell Tip: Enrollment in PlayMyWay is voluntary and takes just a few seconds using your rewards card at any slot machine. It’s the easiest way to stay in control of your game!

Denomination of machine × Number of credits × Number of lines = Average cost of spin

EXAMPLE: $0.25 × 5 credits × 3 lines = $3.75

What to Know

  • Modern slot machines offer an extremely fast rate of play, allowing you to play many spins quickly.
  • Every spin is random. What happened in previous spins is no more or less likely to happen again, so a slot machine never becomes “due” for a win.
  • Randomness of every machine is monitored by regulators to ensure fairness.
  • Your odds of winning can be found in the pay table on the machine being played.
  • Payback percentages are calculated over the lifetime of the machine, which means that a high payback percentage does not mean a higher chance of winning.

Terms of the Game

Learn the key terms and concepts you’ll encounter so you’re equipped with the right language before playing the game.

Volatility

How risky a slot machine is to play. A low volatility machine offers a lower risk with a potential lower reward while a high volatility machine offers a higher risk with a higher potential reward.

Randomness

Every slot machine contains a random number generator, which ensure that every spin is completely random and independent of previous spins.

Payback Percentage

The amount a slot machine is programmed to pay back to players over the entire lifetime of a machine. These percentages typically fall between 80-95%.

Near Miss

When winning symbols appear extremely close to a winning pay line but are not part of the winning pay line.

False Win

When the amount won on a spin is less than the amount wagered.

Volatility

How risky a slot machine is to play. A low volatility machine offers a lower risk with a potential lower reward while a high volatility machine offers a higher risk with a higher potential reward.

Randomness

Every slot machine contains a random number generator, which ensure that every spin is completely random and independent of previous spins.

Payback Percentage

The amount a slot machine is programmed to pay back to players over the entire lifetime of a machine. These percentages typically fall between 80-95%.

Near Miss

When winning symbols appear extremely close to a winning pay line but are not part of the winning pay line.

False Win

When the amount won on a spin is less than the amount wagered.

Etiquette

  • There’s no calling dibs on slot machines.
  • Don’t expect others to save your machine for you if you leave.
  • Pushing or shaking the machine is disruptive and could cause property damage or personal injury.
  • Playing multiple machines during crowded times is inconsiderate of others.
  • Using your player’s rewards card does not change your chances of winning. The machine’s outcome is determined by a Random Number Generator, regardless of whether a card is inserted.

Before You Bet, Get the Inside Scoop

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