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What Are Progressive Jackpot Slots & How Do They Work?

What Are Progressive Jackpot Slots & How Do They Work?

Progressive jackpot slots are a popular type of online casino game that offers the chance to win an impressive jackpot prize that is unlike standard slot game jackpots. Unlike regular slot games, the jackpot in a progressive slot keeps growing until someone wins it. 

Every time a player places a bet on a progressive jackpot slot, a small part of that bet goes into the jackpot. This is what makes it "progressive". The more people play and the more games that participate, the bigger the jackpot gets. 

These slot games can be found in many online casinos, and they often feature themes like space, gems, ancient cultures, fishing, food, and so on, just like standard slots. The excitement comes from the possibility of randomly triggering the jackpot whilst spinning the reels. 

In this blog post, we'll delve into the basics of how these slots work, whether they are worth it, and answer some common questions about them. Let's get started. 

What Are Progressive Jackpot Slots?

Progressive jackpot slots are a type of slot game where the jackpot prize increases every time a bet is placed on a game that is part of the progressive jackpot system, but the jackpot is not won. This means that with each spin, a small part of the bet is added to the jackpot total. 

These games can be found in both online and land-based casinos. They are often linked across multiple machines or even across different casinos, which can help the jackpot grow quickly. 

Unlike regular slots with jackpots, where these top prizes are fixed amounts, the prize in progressive jackpots typically reaches much higher because it keeps growing. The more people play, the larger the jackpot becomes until one player triggers the jackpot feature. 

Progressive jackpots usually have special symbols or bonus rounds that you need to activate to win the big prize. For example, you might need to land a specific combination of symbols or trigger a bonus game within the slot. Sometimes, it just triggers at random; it depends on the slot. 

If someone wins the progressive jackpot, the prize will reset to a base level (seed amount) and start growing again with each new bet placed. This cycle continues, providing opportunities for more players to win big. 

How Do Progressive Jackpot Slots Work?

Progressive jackpot slots work by taking a small portion of all bets placed on the slot game and adding it to the prize pot. Many progressive jackpot slots are part of progressive jackpot systems, which means multiple slot machines are linked with the same progressive jackpot pool, and they all contribute to the prizes. This linkage allows the jackpot to grow quickly, as every bet made contributes to the total prize. 

In many cases, in order to even have a chance at winning the progressive jackpot, you typically need to place the maximum bet. Some may allow you to potentially trigger the jackpot even if you are playing with lower bets, but this can vary from one progressive slot to the next. Always check the game rules to know the requirements. 

Many progressive slot games will have special symbols or bonus rounds. These features often need to be triggered to win the jackpot. For example, you might need to match specific symbols or enter a special mini-game. 

Whereas some may have it so that the progressive jackpot can trigger at random on any base game spin. 

If someone wins the progressive jackpot, the prize resets to a seed amount and starts growing again with new bets being placed. This ensures that even if a big win has just been paid out, there's always a somewhat substantial jackpot up for grabs. 

Remember, while the thrill of a big win is exciting, it's important to gamble responsibly and within your means. The jackpot triggering is a random event, and there is no guarantee that it will happen, so be sure to keep realistic expectations. 

Is It Better To Play Progressive Jackpot Slots?

Whether it's better to play progressive jackpot slots really comes down to personal preference and depends on what you're looking for in a slot game. 

If you are after a slot where you can be in with the chance of winning a massive jackpot prize, then progressive slots could be a good choice for you. 

However, it's important to understand that the odds of winning a progressive jackpot are often far lower compared to winning a fixed jackpot prize in regular slots. This is because the jackpot prize has the potential to be very large, meaning the odds of winning it are very low to balance this. 

Also, many progressive slots require you to bet the maximum amount to be eligible for the jackpot to even have a chance of triggering. This means you may be placing higher bets on each round than you normally would playing standard slots. 

Plus, regular slots usually award more frequent smaller wins than progressive slots, which might appeal more to some players and could help your bankroll go further. But, again, this isn't guaranteed either. 

Ultimately, it's all about deciding what kind of slot experience you wish to have while staying within your budget. Always remember to play responsibly and never gamble more than you can afford to lose. 

How Do You Win a Progressive Jackpot?

Winning a progressive jackpot is entirely down to chance, but knowing the game's rules can help you know what to look out for. 

Firstly, make sure you understand the specific rules of the progressive slot game you're playing. Some games require you to bet the maximum amount to be eligible for the jackpot. Always check this before you start spinning the reels. 

Many progressive slots have special symbols or combinations that trigger the jackpot. For example, you might need to line up a set of rare symbols, like five matching ones on a specific payline. 

Some games may feature bonus rounds or mini-games that you need to activate. Winning these bonus rounds can then lead to a chance at the jackpot. Knowing how these rounds work can help you avoid being caught unaware, so you know what is happening if you trigger them. 

Then, there are some progressive slots where the jackpot may trigger at random on any base game spin. 

Remember that while the chance of a big win is exciting, it's important to play responsibly. Stick to your budget and enjoy the game without relying on hitting the jackpot. The outcome is entirely random, so keep your expectations realistic and focus more on the entertainment aspect than the prospect of potentially winning cash payouts. 

Progressive Slots FAQs

How often do progressive jackpot slots hit?

The frequency of hitting a progressive jackpot varies with each game. In the past, there have been progressive jackpots that have triggered more than once in quick succession, while others have gone for a while without being triggered. The outcome is random, so it's all down to chance. 

How are progressive jackpots paid out?

Progressive jackpots are usually paid out in one lump sum. However, some casinos might choose to pay larger amounts in instalments over time. Always check the casino's payment rules before playing. 

What triggers the jackpot on slot machines?

It can vary from one slot to the next. In some progressive slots, the jackpot is triggered by landing a specific combination of symbols on the reels. Some slot games might require you to enter a bonus round or mini-game to win the jackpot. While others may have it so that it can trigger at random on any base game spin. 

Does anyone ever win progressive jackpots?

Yes, people do win progressive jackpots. There have been many stories of players triggering these impressive prizes. Remember, the chance of winning is random, so it can happen to anyone playing the game, but the odds of it happening are low. 

Where can you play progressive slots online?

You can find progressive jackpot slots at many online casinos. Make sure to choose a reputable and licensed casino, like Cash Casino. Look for popular games from well-known game providers for a trustworthy experience.