Whether you’re playing a slot machine on your computer or a physical machine in a casino, you may be wondering what the differences are between video slot machines and reel machines. Both types use computer programs to help players win big, but the odds are a bit different. Learn more about the differences here.
Modern slot machines use computers instead of gears
Compared to mechanical slot machines, modern slot machines use computers instead of gears to generate winning combinations. They are easier to use and offer better payout rates. They are also more interactive, allowing players to wager directly from a credit card. They may have bonus features, multiple jackpots, and more paylines.
Modern slot machines work with a central computer to control the steps of a step motor. These motors are controlled by short digital pulses of electricity, which move the motor with incredible precision. The symbols on the reels must line up in a winning combination.
Classic slot machine design
Unlike video slots, which have a video image instead of rotating reels, classic slot machines still use physical reels to spin. They can have five, seven, or even nine reels.
Most of the older classic slot machines have three reels, and the player pulls a lever to spin the reels. The slot machine then records the next few numbers from a random number generator. The random number generator produces whole numbers hundreds of times per second.
There are also more advanced slot machines with five, 10, 20, and even 100 pay lines. The amount of money put into each machine contributes to a central jackpot. The jackpot grows gradually as players put money in the machine.
Video slot machines vs reel machines
Among the most popular gambling games are video slot machines and reel machines. While both are fun, you might be surprised to learn that these two games have differences that can affect your play.
For starters, video slot machines are usually more interactive than their reel counterparts. You might notice that certain symbols suddenly appear, or that you want to adjust your bet. You’ll also find that they have extra layers of multimedia, such as sounds and animations.
Video slot machines also have a pay table. This is a list of the credits that you’ll receive when certain symbols line up on the screen. It may be found in the help menu or on the machine’s face.
Virtual stops affect the odds of hitting a jackpot
Unlike the old electro-mechanical slots, where the odds of hitting a jackpot were calculated based on the number of symbols on the reels, modern slot machines use virtual stops to calculate the odds. These stops are lists of numbers that are in the program. The more stops that are added, the less the odds are of hitting a certain image. When the machine is in play, the numbers in the program are pulled out three at a time. Then the three numbers are divided by the number of virtual stops. The remainder of the virtual stops is kept in a memory block.