Pokie machine features and payout mechanics
What’s the first thing you notice when you walk into a land-based casino? A pokie right? Without a doubt it has to be the pokies. They’re bright, they’re flashy, they’re vibrant, and they’re where the jackpot magic happens!
It’s the same at any online casino as well. The pokies are where the action is. Place your bet, spin the reels, and your life could change in a second. It’s exactly this whirlwind of adrenaline that keeps players coming back for more, and it’s why pokies (or online slots) are so enduringly popular.
But while you may know all about the fun that happens in front of you when you play pokies, do you know about what goes on behind the scenes as well? That’s because running in the background of every pokies game is an elaborate and sophisticated system of rules, odds, and mechanics that determine how (and how often) you win.
Why do you need to know this? Because understanding even the basics of what makes pokies tick can elevate your gambling experience, and help you make smarter choices about where to play and how much to bet. Which means a more rewarding and a more valuable gaming session altogether.
So come with us as we break down how pokie machines work, what features to look out for, and how payouts are calculated. And see if you can use your new-found knowledge to bring you closer to that jackpot you’re after!
What exactly are pokie machines?
If you’re confused by the term ‘pokies’, don’t worry – it’s literally just another name for a slot machine, most often used in Australia and New Zealand. Why ‘pokies’? Because early slot machines used to feature Poker cards on the reels, rather than the more modern bars, bells, sevens and other themed images we use currently. Slot machines soon began to be referred to as ‘poker machines’, and then later the more common ‘pokies’. Which is where we find ourselves today!
Aside from the name, pokie machines are simply the regular slot machines you know and love, and the type of game that most epitomizes the thrills and the huge winning potential of online gambling. From the lights to the sounds to the heart-pounding play, online pokies are the biggest drawcard at any casino, and their jackpots are the stuff that dreams are made of!
So how exactly do you play pokie machines? Easy!
First, you’ll need to calculate your bet size depending on the particular pokie’s minimum and maximum betting range.
Next, press the ‘spin’ button. Once you’ve done this, the RNG (Random Number Generator) will get to work, spinning the reels and ensuring that the outcome is fair and random. It’s this algorithm working in the background that determines fairness and unpredictability, ensuring there’s no cheating or rigging.
Once the reels come to a stop, look at the symbols that have landed. And their placement. If you have enough matching symbols on a payline, you’ll receive the relevant number of credits, which you can choose to either cash out, or keep in your account to play with.
Repeat the process, and that’s your online pokies gambling session!
It’s important to note the impact of the RNG, and how its randomness affects your game play. Thanks to the RNG, you can play with confidence, knowing that your outcomes will always be both thrilling and fair. Which means more trust for the casino you’re playing with, and more excitement for you!
How pokie machines work
While there are a variety of different pokie machines out there, from 3 and 5-reel pokies to video pokies and progressive pokies too, every machine follows the same basic structure:
Reels: These are the vertical columns that spin as you play, displaying a variety of different symbols. Most modern pokies feature 5 reels, although classic 3-reel games still exist for the pokie purists. Get a specific symbol combination on a payline once the reels stop spinning and you’ll be a winner!
Paylines: These are the various patterns that criss-cross a pokie’s game area and determine winning combinations. Some pokies have just a few while others feature hundreds. And sometimes even thousands of ways to win. Paylines can run horizontally, vertically, or even a combination of both just to keep things interesting. Check your pokie’s paytable to view its particular payline combination. And keep your fingers crossed that enough matching symbols land on one for you!
Rows: Where reels are the vertical columns on a slot, rows are the horizontal lines that help make up the game area. Usually pokies will feature at least 3 or more rows, and will often have paylines running across them as well. Keep in mind, however, that not all paylines run horizontally, or are limited to a single row – you could be surprised as to where your wins come from!
The Different Symbols You’ll Come Across
Symbols: These are the fun-filled images you see splashed across the reels, and they’re what bring the drama to each and every spin. Classic pokies will usually feature symbols like fruit, sevens and bars. While modern pokies will often feature themed symbols to keep within the concept of the game. Each type of symbol will have a different value. And some will even have special features attached. Such as bonus symbols, wilds, scatters, multipliers or more.
Bet size: This is determined by you and how much you feel you can afford to wager based on the size of your bankroll. Ultimately, the bet size you choose will determine the value of any potential payouts. So it’s an important decision you need to make. Just make sure you’re always playing responsibly and within your means, and you’ll be good to go.
Once you’ve got the basics down and you understand how each part of the pokie machine works together, it’s time to make your play!
Different types of pokie machines
Just as every pokie player is different, every pokie game is different as well, offering a variety of prizes, jackpots and thrilling experiences. That said, pokie machines do still fall into particular categories. And it’s up to you to decide which type you want to play depending on the kind of gambling experience you want to have:
Reel pokies: These are the classic versions of the game that you know and love, and they’re always a firm favourite. Available in 3-reel and 5-reel varieties, reel slots feature traditional gaming elements and retro imagery for an all-around good time.
Video pokies: If you prefer a more adrenaline-charged gambling experience, the video pokies are where you’ll find it! Modelled after the bright lights and big city vibes of Vegas, video pokies are undeniably some of the most popular attractions at any online casino, blending themes, special features and innovative gameplay into one thoroughly captivating gambling experience.
Progressive pokies: Here’s where your life could change in an instant. The progressive pokies. That’s because these are more than just a game. They’re where jackpot dreams are made a reality! Every time you place a bet on a network progressive, you’ll push the jackpot total that much higher. So the more you play, the more you contribute to the ultimate grand prize. And if you’re the one who wins it, watch out. Your life will never be the same!
The role of the RNG in online pokies
We’ve touched on the role of the RNG already, but let’s get into what it’s really about. The RNG is the heart of every pokie machine. An algorithm that continuously produces random sequences of numbers in the background. Even when no one is playing.
Every time you hit the spin button, the pokie machine will take the current number generated by the RNG and translate it into a position for each reel. The result? A completely random combination of symbols every single time.
So what does this mean?
There’s no pattern or cycle to the pokie outcomes that you can predict.
Past spins do not influence future ones. Every spin is completely independent and random.
You’re guaranteed of fair play every time, as all licensed and reputable casinos will have their RNGs regularly tested by independent auditors.
It’s this ongoing testing that’s critical. Rigorous analysis by regulatory bodies that interrogates the fairness of the algorithm before it is deployed. By having this certification in place, casinos can guarantee that their pokies (and all of their games) are run legally and lawfully. And that each outcome is independent, unpredictable. And not influenced in any way by the last.
This is what ensures that pokies are games of chance. And that any ‘hot’ or ‘cold’ streaks are just part of the randomness, rather than hard evidence that the system can be outsmarted. So the next time you take your favourite pokie for a spin, say a silent thank you to the RNG for its integrity and fairness. Because that’s what drives your gaming experience and your excitement!
Online pokie paylines
No, you’re not hallucinating, we did mention paylines already, but they’re an element that’s worth taking a look at. Why? Because they’re the backbone to winning combinations. And the difference between no result and a big win!
As you can tell from the name, paylines are the lines across the reels that matching symbols need to land on in order to result in a payout. Traditional slots usually only feature between 1 and 3 paylines. Modern slots can feature hundreds in various configurations, giving you an almost endless number of ways to win.
It’s this payline structure that directly influences your odds. More paylines mean more chances for you to hit on winning combinations. But they can also mean more money spent per spin as well. It’s for this reason that you’ll need to carefully consider how much you wager on every spin. Creating a delicate balance between the number of paylines available. And the amount of money in your bankroll. For instance, everyone wants to bet max on all paylines to give themselves the best chance of winning the max amount. But this could wipe out your entire bankroll with just a single spin.
So before you blithely increase your bet size to the max and bet on all the available paylines. Take a moment to think responsibly and to consider your budget. Find an amount that you’re comfortable with losing, but that’s also enough to give you a decent payout if you hit a winning combo. That’s the ideal balance you’re looking for.
Understanding RTP and volatility
Aside from the RNG, RTP and volatility are probably two of the most important concepts you need to understand when playing pokies. Let’s take a look at why.
Return to Player (RTP)
The RTP is the theoretical percentage of all wagered money that a pokie should pay back to you over time. What does this mean?
Let’s say you choose to play a pokie with an RTP of 96%. This means that on average, for every $100 bet you make. That particular pokie will return $96 in winnings to you over the long run. Generally any online pokie with an RTP of 95% or more is considered to be a good bet.
Just wait though. Before you go spending all your money on pokies thinking you’ll win most of it back, it’s important to understand that RTP is a theoretical figure. It’s not a guarantee. Over and above this, RTP is calculated in the long-term. Not over a single session. Which means that it’s an average determined across millions of spins over a length of time. So if you’re looking for your $96 back after one visit to the casino, you’re out of luck.
Volatility (also known as variance)
If you’ve come across this word before but aren’t sure what it means, that’s why we’re here! The good news is that it’s not as complicated as you might think. All that volatility (or variance) refers to is how often a pokie pays out, and how big those payouts tend to be.
Most online pokies will offer one of three types of volatility:
Low volatility: With these types of pokies, you’ll enjoy smaller wins more often. These pokies are ideal for beginners as you’ll be able to make smaller bets that are easier on your bankroll. And enjoy sustained wins over a longer period of time. So if you’ve got a limited budget but are still looking for casino thrills, you know just where to find them!
High volatility: Looking for larger payouts? You’ll find them with high volatility pokies. But bear in mind that they’ll come less frequently. If you’re someone who enjoys taking risks and is looking for bigger winning potential, high volatility slots are a great fit. You’ll get the adrenaline you’re after and if you’re lucky, the jackpot payouts too!
Medium volatility: As you might imagine, these are somewhere in between low and high volatility slots – bigger payouts than low volatility slots, at a faster rate than high volatility slots. So to some players, they’re the best of both worlds.
Being able to understand RTP and volatility means you’ll be able to choose a pokie machine that gives you just the gambling experience you’re lookingfor. High RTP and low volatility means more chance of payouts more often, while high volatility means bigger payouts with a little patience thrown in for good measure. Choose the right type of machine and whether you prefer steady wins or heart-pounding risks, you’ll get exactly what you came for.
Online pokie paytables
Ever taken a look at a pokie paytable before? If not, you should start. Because it’s a crucial component of your gameplay.
The paytable is where all the info you need about your particular game is displayed. Such as
which symbols form winning combinations and how much each combination is worth. By looking at the paytable before you play, you’ll understand more about the rules of the game and its potential rewards as well. Which can help inform your betting decisions.
So, what should you be looking out for when you’re studying a paytable?
The values of each particular symbol in the game.
How many of each symbol you need for a win.
Details about any relevant bonus features or multipliers.
By doing this, you’ll be able to learn more about:
Which symbols are wilds or scatter symbols. The game’s jackpot potential. How special features, such as free spins, are triggered.
We know how tempting it is to want to dive right into your game, but even taking just a few minutes to look at the paytable can make a big difference to how you understand your particular pokie. You’ll have all the information you need up front. You’ll know which high-value symbols to look out for. And you’ll know what’s coming when any bonus features are triggered. The more you know, the more rewarding your entire experience will be!
Common online pokie features
Now we get to the really exciting stuff. The symbols you should be looking out for, and what they can do for you. That’s because there’s more to online pokies than a simple ‘spin and win’ formula. Instead. You’ll have high-value symbols, bonus features and even free spins to look forward to. Depending on the particular pokie you choose. And the more features your pokie is able to pack in. The more winning potential it could have for you. Which is always exhilarating news!
Let’s take a look at some of the most common pokie features in play:
Wild symbols
Often embellished with the word ‘wild’, wild symbols act as substitutes for other regular symbols helping to complete winning combinations when they land on a payline. Some wilds even come with special properties as well, like the ability to expand, move, or even apply multipliers to your win.
Scatter symbols
These are symbols that don’t need to appear on a particular payline. They can be scattered anywhere on the reels. As long as enough of them land simultaneously (usually a minimum of 3) they’ll be able to trigger bonus features for you, such as free spins. The more scatters you find, the bigger your reward will be (such as more free spins to play) so look out for them. They’re your fast track to pokie thrills!
Sticky symbols
These are just what they sound like. Symbols that ‘stick’ in place when they land while the reels spin around them. They’re often used in respins, helping to bring more winnings your way. They can also help trigger bonus features as well, and can help land you payouts in some circumstances too, often when two land at the same time.
Stacked symbols
Again, the clue’s in the name – identical symbols that are stacked one on top of the other to occupy multiple positions on a reel, and increase your chances of winning. Not every pokie offers stacked symbols, but when they do, they’re often hugely rewarding.
Bonus Features & Advanced Mechanics
Free spins
No surprises here. A free spins feature is exactly what it sounds like. And it’s one of the most thrilling moments in any online pokie! Activate the free spins feature (usually by finding a certain number of scatters on the reels) and you’ll have several free rounds to play without needing to spend any of your own money. Additionally, free spins rounds often come with extra perks included. Such as multipliers or special wilds to add to your winning total.
Multipliers.
As their name suggests, these bonus symbols can multiply your win by a certain factor, such as 2x, 3x, 5x or sometimes even up to 100x or more. Look out for symbols with numbers on them as these usually indicate multipliers that can help bring a welcome boost to your winning total.
Bonus symbols
These are where the rewards lie! While bonus symbols can take many forms depending on the theme of the pokie, they all have one thing in common. The ability to provide thrilling reward opportunities. Sometimes these can come in the form of free spins, sometimes respins and sometimes a pick and win feature. It all depends on the pokie and on the type of bonus symbol you find. One thing’s for sure though. As soon as you find enough bonus symbols, you know that good things are coming your way!
Popular Slot Features Worth Watching For
Bonus rounds
Looking for something a little different from your pokies game? That’s what bonus rounds are there for. Games within the game that you’re playing that offer added excitement and extra winning opportunities. Whether it’s an interactive mini game, a pick and win feature or the chance to spin a prize wheel. Bonus games add variety, excitement, and often the chance to win the biggest prizes in the game.
Progressive jackpots
You already know that progressive pokies are where the big money lies – but did you know that regular pokie games can include progressive jackpots too? Just like regular progressive games, every bet that you place will contribute to the growing prize pool, allowing you to win massive six or even seven-figure payouts if you hit the big one!
Megaways™ and ways-to-win mechanics
Online pokie operators are always coming up with new and innovative game mechanics, and that’s exactly what these are! Newer systems like Megaways™ and ways-to-win replace traditional paylines with thousands of possible combinations per spin. With reel positions changing dynamically. Every spin is more unpredictable and high-energy than the last, making each game an exhilarating experience from start to finish.
Once you understand these features and how they impact the way you play, you’ll be able to choose the right pokie game for you. One that matches both your excitement level and your budget!
How payouts are calculated
Want to know how your pokie winnings are determined? Each time you place a bet, your potential payout depends on three main factors:
The size of your bet
The combination of symbols landed
Any active features or multipliers
By checking the paytable (which we’ve already recommended) you’ll be able to see a more detailed breakdown of how much each winning combination will payout. For example, landing five of the highest-paying symbol might award 500x your bet, while three low-value symbols might pay only 5x.
Remember, though, when you take extra features like bonus rounds, free spins, and multipliers into account, the possible payout combinations can vary widely, and be hugely rewarding too. You’ll also see that some pokies have fixed jackpots (predetermined prize amounts) or progressive jackpots (which grow with each bet placed across the network), which can also affect how much you’re able to win.
While it’s true that betting the maximum will give you the biggest prize-winning potential if you hit the top jackpot, it’s not necessary to place big bets in order to have the best pokie experience. Always take your bankroll into account, and set yourself spend and session limits to ensure you play responsibly. Even if you’re only able to place a minimum bet, you can still get maximum excitement from every pokie you play!
Can you influence the outcome of a pokie game?
It’s the question on everybody’s lips, and we’re sorry to burst your bubble but the answer is no. Remember the RNG we spoke about earlier? That’s your guarantee of complete fairness and randomness with every bet. Which means there’s nothing you can do to influence the outcome of a spin.
What you CAN do, however, is make strategic decisions to manage your gameplay effectively:
Choose higher RTP games: Statistically, these will offer you better returns in the long term.
Adjust your bet size: Smaller bets can help to stretch your bankroll and allow you to play for longer, which means more winning opportunities over time.
Set limits: Keep your bankroll top of mind by deciding how much time and money you’re willing to spend before you start playing.
Take advantage of bonuses: Does your online casino offer any free spins or no-deposit bonuses? Take advantage of these and you’ll be able to play more for less.
Don’t think about trying to ‘beat’ the game. Instead, focus your energy on playing smart, and getting as much entertainment value from your pokie machine as possible. That’s how you really win at the end of the day.
Best bankroll management strategies
Your bankroll is your life in the game, and the more you’re able to manage your finances effectively, the longer you’ll be able to stay and spin. Which means responsible bankroll management is a priority.
Try these top tips to help you stay in the game:
Set yourself a fixed budget before you start spinning. This will ensure you don’t overspend or give into the temptation to chase your losses.
Once you’ve got your budget, divide it into smaller units, or session units. By doing this, you’ll be giving yourself the freedom to play multiple sessions with a budget in place. Rather than spending all your money at once. Not only will this allow you to play for longer overall, it’ll reduce the impact of variance as well. Giving you the chance to stay in control while you play.
Finally, try keeping detailed records of your wins and losses so you can see exactly where your money is going and why. By doing this over a period of time, you’ll soon be able to see patterns in your play. This can help inform your future decisions as you see which strategies have been most useful to you.
Keep an eye on your finances and you’ll be able to keep playing for longer, like the pokie master you are!
Top tips on timing and session limits
Does the timing of when you play pokies affect your experience at all? Some players argue that it does. That while the RNG governs pokie outcomes, choosing to play during less crowded times can help you relax and put you in a calmer and collected state of mind.
If you’re someone who needs to be completely relaxed when they play, then early mornings might be a good time for you. You’ll have a more peaceful environment to play in. And you’ll be able to focus better as well.
The length of your sessions can also affect your mindset. While it’s tempting to want to play for as long as possible, especially when you’re on a roll. Prolonged gambling sessions only lead to fatigue, which can in turn affect your mood and your judgment. Rather, break your gaming up into shorter, more focused sessions. You’ll still enjoy the same thrilling experience. And you’ll reduce the chances of making poor decisions at the same time.
If you’re playing in a relaxed way, having fun, and making the best decisions you can, you’ll always get the most from your pokie session. Which means a more rewarding gambling experience overall.
Common myths about pokie machines
Think you know everything there is to know about online pokies? Let’s clear up a few myths just to make sure, so we can separate fact from fiction.
Myth: “My machine hasn’t paid out in ages, so it’s due for a win!”
Reality: False (unfortunately). Thanks to the RNG, every spin is completely random and independent from the one before. The machine doesn’t ‘remember’ previous outcomes and ‘reward’ you if it’s been a while since you’ve won. That’s just not how it works. So if you’re not feeling a particular machine for some reason. Rather switch to another one instead of waiting around for a huge payout that may never come.
Myth: “Stopping the reels at just the right time changes the result.”
Reality: You might not know this, but the outcome of a pokies spin is determined the moment you hit the spin button. So your fate is sealed right from the beginning, rather than the end. As such, there’s nothing you can do to influence the outcome by stopping the reels at a particular time. What you see is what you get!
Myth: “Online pokies pay out less than land-based ones.”
Reality: We’re not sure where this tidbit of misinformation came from, as it’s actually not true. In fact, many online pokies actually have higher RTPs than their land-based counterparts. Since digital casinos have lower overhead costs. So you’re not missing out on anything by visiting an online casino instead of a brick-and-mortar one. In fact, you could be gaining instead!
The more you know about pokies, and the more accurate your information is. The more you’ll be able to enjoy your experience and manage your winning expectations accordingly.
How to enjoy pokies responsibly
While pokies are games of chance and there’s no way for you to control the outcome. There are steps you can take to stay in control of your own behaviour. Playing responsibly means being able to play for longer and get the most value for your money, which is always a win, no matter what the outcome.
Try these top tips for safe, fun online gambling:
Always set yourself a budget before you place your first bet, and ensure that you stick to it.
Take regular breaks for your physical and mental health, especially during longer gaming sessions.
Don’t go overboard when celebrating your wins – you don’t want to immediately lose all the money you’ve just won. And don’t chase your losses either. Rather step away so you can come back again and play another day.
New to playing for real money? Try the free or demo versions of your favourite pokies first so you can learn the rules without having to risk your own money in the process.
Always remember that gambling is a fun pastime, not a way to generate income. Make sure you’re in it for the entertainment, not for the money.
If you’re able to play responsibly and still enjoy your gambling to the full, you’ll have a pokies experience that’s exactly what it’s meant to be. Fun, light-hearted and completely immersive from the first spin to the last.
The future of online pokie features
We’ve already touched on how traditional pokies have evolved into the modern game we know and love today. But what does the future hold for online pokies? Will they stay the same, or will online pokie operators continue to create and innovate?
If there’s one thing you can count on in online gambling, it’s growth and development. Which is why in the future, you can look forward to pokies gaming that includes:
Skill-based bonuses where the faster you react, the better your in-game result will be.
VR and AR experiences, where you’ll have the chance to enjoy a fully immersive 3D casino environment.
Blockchain technology for additional security and safety, enhancing transparency in payout verification.
Look out for all this and more, coming your way in the near future. It’s innovation that’s exciting, inspiring, and that keeps your gaming fresh. So whether you’re a brand-new player or a seasoned pro, you’ll always find something new to discover and enjoy.
It’s pokie time! All the fun, all the thrills!
So, now that we’ve had a super thorough look at what pokies are, how they work, and how to get the most value from them. It’s time for you to make your play! Yes, they’re games of luck rather than chance. But understanding their features and payout mechanics can still give you an edge when it comes to your confidence and your enjoyment of the game as well.
From RTP and volatility to paylines, paytables, extra features and more. It may feel like a lot to take in all at once, but don’t be overwhelmed. The more you play, the more familiar you become with pokies in general. The more you learn about how to bet responsibly, how to manage your bankroll, and how to maximize your gambling experience.
Because remember. At the end of the day, pokies are all about fun and excitement. Enjoy yourself, feel the thrill and immerse yourself in the exhilaration. That’s what it’s all about!