With new slot games being churned out by developers all of the time, and many of them reaching for innovation by adding new features and mechanics, a debate has risen among players – are older slots better than new ones?
While the nostalgia of vintage slot machines and the excitement of modern video slots both offer unique appeals, the question still remains – is one superior? In this comprehensive guide, we will explore this question in depth, examining everything from the mechanics of slot machines to how to select the best slot game for you.
Understanding the Inner-Workings of Slot Machines
Regardless of their age or design, the core mechanism powering all slot machines is the Random Number Generator (RNG). It uses an algorithm to produce unpredictable outcomes, which ensures each spin is entirely random and independent, making slot games truly a game of chance.
RNG in Older Slot Machines
In the case of vintage mechanical slot machines, RNG technology was fairly rudimentary. These machines used physical reels and levers, with outcomes determined by the mechanical movement of these components. Despite their lack of advanced technology, these machines still employed a basic form of RNG, ensuring randomness and unpredictability.
RNG in Modern Slot Machines
On the other end of the spectrum, contemporary slot machines utilise advanced RNG software, which involves a complex algorithm, continuously generating thousands of number combinations every second. This high level of randomness ensures that each spin is completely independent, rendering it impossible to predict when or if a slot machine will pay out. Although these machines utilise more sophisticated technology, the fundamental principle of randomness remains consistent.
Are Older Slots Better?
Whether older slot machines are superior or not largely hinges on what you're seeking as a player. If you gravitate towards a simpler, more uncomplicated gaming experience, older machines might be more suitable. However, if you're in search of a game with greater opportunities for big wins and entertaining bonus features, then newer machines may be more appealing.
Do New Slots Pay More?
The potential payouts from slot machines are not necessarily correlated with the age of the machine. Instead, they are likely to depend on the game's characteristics, such as the Return to Player (RTP) rate and volatility.
A slot game's RTP rate is a percentage that theoretically indicates the amount of money the slot pays back out to players over time. For instance, a slot game with a 96% RTP means that the machine is expected to average out as paying out £96 for every £100 wagered over a long period of time.
Volatility is also a theoretical value, which indicates the slot's potential behaviour in terms of payout size and frequency. In theory, higher-volatility slots are more likely to award more substantial payouts, but they land less frequently, whereas lower-volatility slots are more likely to land wins more frequently, but the payouts are likely to be smaller.
Every slot has its own RTP rate and volatility rating, which indicate its theoretical payout behaviour. It doesn't make a difference if the slot is new or old; its individual ratings let you know how the slot is likely to behave. However, it's important to note that slots are random and these rating are calculated from large samples over a long time so your results may not reflect said values.
How Can You Tell A Good Slot Machine?
There are no objectively 'good' slot machines, as different players are drawn to different aspects of slots. That being said, what many typically consider a 'good' slot machine is one that offers a high RTP rate - i.e. above the industry average of 95%.
However, there are other factors that players often consider when selecting a slot machine. These include the game's volatility, graphics, bonus features, and the maximum potential prize. Ultimately, the 'goodness' of a slot machine is subjective, as it largely depends on the individual preferences of the player.
How To Win On Old Slot Machines?
Winning on slot machines, not just older models, is purely down to chance. Slot machines operate using RNGs, making every spin unpredictable.
Generally, the only way to win when playing slot machines is to form a winning combination as outlined in the paytable. Typically, in older slot machines, you need to land three matching symbols on a payline, from left to right, to form a winning combination.
Conclusion
In summary, while both old and new slot machines have their unique charms and advantages, the answer to which is better is largely subjective and depends on the player's preferences. It's always advisable to try out a variety of slot machines to find the one that best suits your budget and preferences. Whether you prefer the charm of vintage slots or the spectacle of modern video slots, there's a slot machine to fit the bill out there waiting for you. Please gamble responsibly. Remember, slots are entirely down to chance, so winning is never guaranteed.