How Do Slot Machines Work?

Question

Can someone explain how slot machines actually function?

Answer 1

Slot machines operate using a Random Number Generator (RNG) that cycles through thousands of numbers per millisecond to ensure fair and unpredictable outcomes. When you spin the reels, the RNG selects a number that corresponds to a position on a virtual reel table, which then translates to the symbols you see on the physical reels. This process is governed by simple math and probability, ensuring that each spin is an independent event and not influenced by previous outcomes.

Comments

I used to work for a large slot manufacturer as a QA Engineer. I tested the games. What you said in this video is 100% EXACTLY ACCURATE.    All of the games we created had numerous mapping tables.   Sometimes, the games were so complex that I would have to contact the programmer or mathematician so they can explain to me the math. The games were super complex.

But I can tell you with confidence that all games can hit the top jackpot on every single spin, or bonus round, etc.  The low paying symbols are highly weighted, however.  This is why you never seem to get top awards but it is possible.

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You're spot on. The mechanics of slot machines are so overwhelming to many people that it's easier to lean into conspiracies rather than trust the math.

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This video should be played in schools (high schools) and/or college. People need to understand gambling and BE SAFE. There is so much miss-information out there and with TikTok videos of max payouts and other such material, people need to understand fully how these machines works. Great video.

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I’m a Las Vegas Slot Machine  Technician and Cook. I’m also an Electrical Engineering Technician and Inventor. I never trusted those Slot Machines.  Great Information.
Subscribed

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No matter how random the number generation is, the foundational odds that are baked in will eventually ALWAYS payoff for the house.

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Hey Marc, Awesome explanation, great breakdown from beginning to the outcome and all in one vid.

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Thank you for such a comprehensive explanation of how slots work. I appreciate the time you put into these videos. I think they should be required viewing by slot players. Knowledge makes smarter gamblers!

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9:08 i don't even gamble.  Math, engineering and how things work is all i'm here for. Much appreciate the detailed explanation and insight!

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Thanks for this video.  This was by far, the best video on how slots work.  Appreciate the insights and tips.  Amazing job!  Very helpful, I need to make my wife watch this one!

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Thank you for this video. The RNG used in a slot machine reminds me a lot of how the numbers are chosen for state lotteries. Just because a number frequently pops up on a state lottery doesn't mean its a good number to select. On the flip side, just because a number hasn't come up in the last 99 draws doesn't mean it's due to pop up soon. I used to work with a guy that used a spread sheet and the Winning numbers from the last 100 lotto draws to help him figure out which lotto numbers to select for the next draw. Bless his heart, he never won.

I kind of miss the old slot machines with a single pay line that used cherries, bells, plums, oranges, and a jackpot. Those machines seemed more mechanical than electronic, but they were what I cut my teeth on as a young gambler. You may not win much, but they were a lot of fun. I get too confused with multiple pay lines and funky symbols. But my wife seems to enjoy those

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I like your explanation. I wanted to know how these machines really work

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Here's one for you... does the amount of time between pressing the spin button, change the random number? Ie. If you wait 10 seconds or slap it repeatedly, would the outcome be the same?

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Title suggestive of: You might be able to win at gambling!
Me: Let me tell you how slot machines actually REALLY work: THEY rob YOU. You lose.