The GameSense® Guide to Slots
At MGM ResortsThe Slot Machine
What every player needs to know!
How do Slot Machines Work?
A computer program (called an RNG, or Random Number Generator) ensures a random outcome on each and every play. When you play a slot machine that states it has an 80% payout over the life of the machine, it doesn’t mean that you will leave with 80% of the money you started with. After thousands or millions of games, the laws of probability will allow some players to win or break even, but in reality most players will lose. Slots are programmed to retain more money than is paid out in winnings, so in the end the slot machine wins.
When you put money in a slot machine, your wager appears on the digital display as credits. As you play, your credits will decrease when you lose and increase when you win. Generally the odds to win any prize are approximately 1 in 5. But the odds to win the top prize on a red, white and blue slot machine, for example, are only 1 in 373,248. Slots differ in their payouts. Some slot games pay smaller prizes more frequently and offer more bonus games. Other machines pay out more often in the middle and top prize categories. The chances of winning smaller prizes on slots are greater than the chances of winning top prizes.
Persistence doesn’t pay off
Persistence doesn’t pay off. Each play is an independent event with the same odds of winning or losing as every other play on that game. The result of your previous play or series of plays has no bearing on what happens on your next play. There is no way to predict a win. Slots are never “due for a win” and they don’t “go cold” after a win.
You’re not leaving a jackpot waiting
The RNG produces approximately 1,000 different results every second. So even if you had continued playing the machine, it’s highly unlikely you would have had the same result as the player who followed you.
It’s not about location, location, location
Nothing about a machine’s location, or the way you play, affects the outcome of a game. Slot machine wins and losses are always random, with no predictable pattern.
Stick with your Budget
Slot machines are meant to provide entertainment. Just like going out for dinner and a movie, you generally have an idea of what you plan to pay. When you’ve spent your budgeted money, it’s time to call it a day. It’s a good idea to approach gambling the same way. To avoid spending more time or money than you planned, set a budget for your casino visit, as well as a time limit.
Additional Help
If you would like to learn more about responsible gaming, consult with a GameSense Advisor.
If you feel you need help, please call the following 24-hour confidential hotlines:
Nevada Council on Problem Gambling
1.800.522.4700
Maryland Alliance for Responsible Gambling
1.800.GAMBLER
www.mdgamblinghelp.org
Massachusetts Council on Compulsive Gambling
1.800.426.1234
Michigan Department of Community Health
1.800.270.7117
The Mississippi Council on Problem and Compulsive Gambling
1.888.777.9696
The Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey
1.800.GAMBLER
Ohio for Responsible Gaming
1.800.589.9966
Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services
1.877.8HOPENY
If you desire to self-limit from gaming at all US based MGM Resorts International properties, you may request a Self-Limit Access Program form at the Casino Cage of any of our US based casino properties. In addition, in the states of Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi, New Jersey, and Ohio individuals requesting to be self-excluded may also fill out a form specific for that state.
Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency
1.410.230.8798
Massachusetts Gaming Commission
1.617.533.9737
Michigan Gaming Control Board
1.888.223.3044
Mississippi Gaming Commission
Jackson 1.800.504.7529
Central District 1.888.465.8312
Northern District 1.800.269.3577
Southern District 1.800.497.8550
New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement
Atlantic City 1.609.441.3846
Trenton 1.609.777.2279
Ohio Lottery Commission
1.800.686.4208
New York State Gaming Commission
1.518.388.3300