Slots are a casino favourite because they are simple to play and don’t require any strategy. All you need to do is place your money in the machine and hit spin. But behind the scenes, these games are far more complicated than they seem. This article looks at the mathematics behind them, explaining how a random number generator (RNG) determines whether you win or lose, and how big your wins are. It also details how a game’s payout percentage is calculated, and runs through the maths to show how this relates to the odds of hitting a jackpot.
The history of slot machines
Historically, slots were the main source of gambling revenue in casinos and, even today, they remain one of the most popular casino games in the world. Originally, they were designed to be a fun diversion for casual gamers and enticed players with their brightly coloured reels and themes. But the machines have become more sophisticated and, thanks to RNG technology, they are now able to offer a variety of complex pay-out combinations.