Playing the Penny Slots

What is a straight multiplier machine?

Love the penny slots. Any suggestions on the best way to play them?

Straight multipliers are machines on which each coin pays the same amount for each winning combination. The payouts on the second coin are exactly twice those of the first coin; the payouts on the third coin are exactly three times those of the first coin, etc. An example of a straight multiplier is a 2-coin Double Diamond machine that pays 800 for the jackpot when one coin is played and 1600 when two coins are played.

A bonus multiplier pays a bonus on one or more combinations when you play full coin. An example of a bonus multiplier is a 3-coin Double Diamond that pays 800 for the jackpot for one coin, 1600 for two coins, and 2500 (not 2400) for three coins.

The best way to play penny slots is to not be confused by the base denomination. It doesn't matter whether you bet 10 pennies per line on 10 lines or bet a dollar per spin on a reel-spinner -- either way, you're risking a buck per spin.

I recommend that you bet one coin per line on each line on a penny slot. If you should happen to hit a hot streak, you can increase your bet. But drop back to one coin per line if your luck turns sour. Also, regardless of what kind of machines you play, ensure that you're adequately bankrolled and playing with entertainment money, not rent, food, or clothing money.

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.