It’s common for players to notice periods when slot machines don’t seem to pay out as often and to describe these stretches as a machine being ‘cold.’ But what exactly causes these dry spells?
There’s more happening behind the scenes than just chance, and gaining a better understanding of the factors that shape slot behaviour can offer a clearer perspective on what to expect if you choose to play. Read on to explore the details.
Why Do Slot Machines Stop Paying?
It’s common for players to notice stretches where a slot machine doesn’t seem to deliver wins, and this is entirely normal. Each spin is independent and based on random outcomes, meaning every spin has the same chance as the one before it. The idea of a slot being 'hot' or 'cold' doesn’t really apply. 
This randomness is generated by what’s called a Random Number Generator (RNG). The RNG continuously produces number combinations every second, even when the game isn’t being played. Because of this, it’s not possible to predict or influence the outcome of any spin. Changes in stake or gameplay don’t affect what the RNG produces.
Another key factor that shapes the player experience is volatility. Volatility, sometimes called variance, indicates how frequently and how much a slot tends to pay out. Low-volatility slots usually offer more frequent wins, but they tend to be smaller amounts. Conversely, high-volatility slots may pay out larger sums, but wins tend to happen less often. This provides a useful framework, though it’s important to remember it’s only theoretical—the actual results remain entirely random.
Return to Player (RTP) is another notable concept. RTP is a theoretical figure represented as a percentage that estimates how much a slot might return to players, on average, over a long period compared to the total amount wagered. For example, an RTP of 96% suggests that, on average, £96 is paid back to players for every £100 played. However, RTP is only a guide—it doesn’t guarantee what any individual player will win, as each session’s results vary widely due to the randomness involved.
Are Slot Machines Rigged?
It’s understandable that players might wonder about fairness, especially during a run of losses. However, it’s important to know that slot machine outcomes aren’t controlled by the casino operators. As mentioned earlier, every result is determined by an RNG, which functions independently from both the player and the casino.
To ensure fairness, all RNGs used by UK-licensed casinos undergo regular testing and certification by independent auditing firms. This means that players cannot influence the results, nor can any strategy alter the outcome of a spin. While choosing games based on factors like volatility and RTP can help you find options that suit your preferences, these don’t affect the fundamental randomness that governs each spin.
Is It Better To Stay On One Slot Machine Or Move Around?
If you’re wondering whether it’s better to stick with one slot machine or try several, understanding how RNGs work can provide some clarity. The outcome of each spin is random, so moving between different slots or staying on a single machine doesn’t influence the chances of winning.
Many players develop personal preferences or routines around this, but these choices don’t affect how a slot pays out. Instead, focusing on finding games with an RTP or volatility that suits your style can be a more useful way to decide which slots to play. Ultimately, whether you choose to stay on one machine or explore multiple options, the results remain unpredictable.
If you like to try different slot machines, then why not check out some of our most popular titles? At our online casino you can find the Rainbow Riches slot, King Kong Cash, Big Bass Secrets of the Golden Lake, the Eye of Horus slot, and many more.
What Determines When A Slot Machine Will Payout?
Each spin produces new number combinations thanks to the RNG, which picks the symbols that land on the reels. These could lead to matching symbols or none at all.
Earlier, we mentioned RTP and volatility values as ways to understand how a slot is designed, but the nature of randomness from RNGs means there’s never a way to know when a payout might arrive.
Do Casinos Control Slot Machines?
No, casinos don’t have control over slot outcomes. Casinos simply provide slot games on their platforms, and the outcome of each spin is determined solely by the game’s RNG.
The one area where a casino might have a choice is when developers offer slots with different RTP options. Even then, the outcomes of every spin remain completely independent and random.
Conclusion
If you’ve ever wondered why a slot machine seems to stop paying out, it’s important to keep in mind that every spin is determined by an RNG, making outcomes completely unpredictable and beyond anyone’s control.
Sticking to a clear budget and approaching play with a balanced mindset can help keep things enjoyable. Whether at Wizard Slots or elsewhere, practising responsible gambling and viewing games as a form of entertainment is always the best approach.
**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.