Nixxxie on random. It don't exist.

I've heard of software programs that teach strategy for video poker slots by the standard hints that all games use, with the addition of correcting hands you choose poorly. Have any advice for those of us who would like to improve our knowledge without buying a bunch of games that don't do the job?

Thanks,
Dave

Dear Dave,

I can recommend two programs that do the job: WinPoker and Frugal Video Poker (FVP). WinPoker has the better look, but FVP is newer and has more features. You won't go wrong with either program, but FVP is the better value.

Both are available from www.shoplva.com.

Best of luck in and out of the casinos,
John

John,

I don't know how or where you get your info, but I have read your stuff for a year, and don't believe most of it.

First you say that the machine does not respond to the amount of coins. My experience for many years is that the machines love to pay on one coin. I play the Munsters when I go to Mohegan Sun, and though I have gotten three Munsters three times all on one coin paying 500, but not the three-coin 5,000. I personally think that the machine knows not to pay on three coins, when it would pay too much.

Forget this random stuff it's not true. The machines must make money, all of them. Random is not the word; crooks would be better.

One more thing, 90% of the time if you don't walk away with your winnings the machines slowly take back. So when you win, leave. Or go and have lunch, especially if it's free. That's what I do and I enjoy myself.

Nixxxie on random it don't exist. [sic]

R.J.

Dear R.J.,

How frequently do you play one coin versus three? I bet you play one coin much more often than you play three. We really can't be surprised that an unlikely event has happened more times at one coin than at three.

In addition, the machine would not "pay too much" if it hit three Munsters with three coins played. That payout — as well as all of the others — are built into the machine's long-term payback, which is less than 100%. Because the machines pay back less than 100%, they are designed to eventually separate players from their bankrolls. Of course, they will eventually take back all of your winnings if you continue to play them.

Outcomes on slot machines and other casino games can be random and the games can still make money. If you really think the machines are crooks, why do you play them?

Finally, I get my information from reading promotional information from slot manufacturers, talking to employees of the slot manufacturers, reading slot regulations and sworn testimony in slot-related lawsuits, attending gaming trade shows and industry seminars, and talking to slot directors.

Best of luck in and out of the casinos,
John

What is the difference between video and reel slot machines? I often see both referenced in your articles, but I honestly don't know what the difference is between them, if any.

By the way, your articles are always informative as well as entertaining!

Mary

Dear Mary,

Thanks for the kind words about my columns.

A reel slot machine is the kind of slot machine that has been in Las Vegas for over 100 years. It has three or more reels on display in a window.

A video slot machine does not have physical reels, only a computer display monitor.

Best of luck in and out of the casinos,
John

Send your slot and video poker questions to John Robison, Slot Expert, at slotexpert@comcast.net. Because of the volume of mail I receive, I regret that I can't send a reply to every question. Also be advised that it may take several months for your question to appear in my column.