Everyone likes a good bet. Some gamble for the thrill, some play games of chance to win big. When it comes to pokies, there are various choices, so it’s essential to understand their discernible features.
Pokies
Pokies, also known as slot machines, have become incredibly popular in recent years. You can find them at in-person and online casinos today. Though luck plays a crucial factor in winning these entertaining games, several features differentiate interfaces.
Reel Machines
The more traditional physical reel machines are commonly found in brick-and-mortar casinos and pubs. Most classic variants have three pay lines, though you may also encounter five-pay line physical slot machines. This mechanical device relies on physical reels that spin when a lever is pulled.
You first insert coins or use print-out tickets when you’re ready to play at an in-person slot machine. To activate play, pull the lever or push the button. The reels will begin to spin, and when they stop, you’ll get a combination of symbols. In a three-reel slot machine, you win when all three symbols match.
Video Machines
More common than the classic reel machines are video machines. If you’ve encountered a mechanical slot machine before, it operates pretty much like video pokies. One of the main differences is that the latter displays symbols and options on a video or graphical screen rather than a physical interface. It’s software-driven, and the digital interface allows for more reels and more interactive animations.
Modern video slot machines differ in both looks and features in ways like:
- Progressive Slots– The total prize money in these games increases each time a new game starts until a player wins it.
- Mega Spin Slots– These let you play with multiple sets of reels on a single display, creating an opportunity to score big.
- Multi-pay Line Pokies– These digital slot machines offer several pay lines that may be straight or diagonal. The number of pay lines depends on the specific game you’re playing.
Symbols
The first noticeable feature of any pokies is the distinct symbol array. These icons include wilds, expanding wilds, multipliers, scatters, bonus symbols, pick-me bonus, click-me bonus, and gamble. They each have a unique meaning and purpose that you should know as a player, such as:
- Wilds– When you need to change just one icon to match all your symbols, a wild has the magical power to make it all a winning combination.
- Expanding Wilds– Available in the base game or bonus spin, these symbols can extend up or down a reel, making it easier to yield a winning pay line combination.
- Bonuses– Stay on the lookout for these symbols as they may signify an opportunity to improve your winning chances without spending more, such as a free spin.
- Pick-me Bonuses-Attaining multiple relevant bonus icons on the reels activate this symbol, taking you to a separate display with symbols concealing free spins, multipliers, or even a cash prize.
- Gamble– It takes some calmness and courage to decide on this one after attaining a winning combination. Suppose you take your chances and win; the winnings from your previous round increase 100 percent. You lose the gamble, and you lose everything.
- Multipliers– These are fantastic options for increasing your winnings by a specific figure. Some online slots don’t have this feature.
Free vs. Paid Pokies
As there has been a boom of different online pokies, they generally fall into two categories: free and paid. Paid pokies require a credit card to participate. Similar to a physical slot machine, you could potentially win real money. You’ll need first to sign up, make a deposit, and if there’s a welcome bonus, you can use it to start playing.
If you’d like to perfect your gambling skills or warm-up before playing for real money, try free pokies. These online slots are purely for entertainment, allowing you to practice your pokies game and pass the time.
The internet is awash with hundreds if not thousands of casino titles you can play without spending a dime or signing up. To see how your betting skills stack up against the best out there, you can find free pokies at Pokies.bet right away.
Unleash the Pokies Pro in You
Whether you’re playing slots for fun or money, get acquainted with essential pokies’ features to get the most out of your experience. You probably wouldn’t wish to miss out on the various bonuses and free spins that can improve your winning chances. You could also practice with free online slots as you prepare to sign up for premium internet-based casino games.