What are Online Slots?

Online slots are basically slot machines that you can play on your computer, tablet or smart device at any time, anywhere in the world. Just like the physical version, you deposit money, hit the play button and have fun trying to win the jackpot by lining up the symbols.

The classic slot is the three reel (although online slots can have more), with generally one winning payline but online you can have plenty more. Other games have bonus feature symbols (called wilds and scatters) and rounds where you can win other prizes.

Players have to be 18 or over, as there’s money involved, but other than that, you’re free to try and win big as often as you like.

How do Online Slots Work?

Online slots work in exactly the same way as their old fashioned, physical slot (or fruit) machine counterparts – just like those you used to find in pubs or amusements.

  • You deposit your play fee.
  • Pull the virtual arm or press the button and watch the wheel spin.
  • Align the symbols in what’s called the payline to win a cash prize.

If they’re not quite aligned, you can use your skills to nudge and hold the symbols until you make the match.

Slots are completely random with each spin, so the skill comes from knowing when to stick and when to twist.

What are paylines?

As we mentioned above, paylines are when you align the symbols on the reels in winning combinations. Just think of that classic slot machine image of the three reels of cherries lined up horizontally.

Of course, these days, the symbols vary a little bit more, especially online and lines don’t always have to be perfectly horizontal. And remember that different payline symbols can mean different prize amounts.

The more paylines an online slot has, the more chance you stand of winning.

What is a bonus feature?

Some slots will have bonus symbols or paylines. These features mean that when you line them up in a winning combination, you can increase your winnings or go through to special bonus rounds where you can play cash games to win more money.

What you need to remember about bonus features:

  • Different slot machines have different bonus features and cash games.
  • The rules for winning are slightly different each time.
  • The more you play a game, the more you start to understand how the bonus features work.
  • It’s here where players can win some really big prizes.