Multi-Line Slots and Penny Slots
Slot machines today are a galaxy away from the three-reel, single-payline prototype of the 1890s. Today you will find five-reel slots, progressive slots, bonus games, and slots with as many as 25 paylines or more. These are called multi-paylines or multi-lines for short.
A payline is a line along the reels that the symbols must appear on to qualify for a payout. The more lines there are, the more ways that symbols can make qualifying arrangements. And that is what makes multi-lines so attractive to slot players. They seem to increase one's chances of winning.
But there is a catch: To activate each payline, you have to bet on it. So the more lines you want to use, the more bets you have to make. For a multi-line with 20 paylines, a $1 bet on all paylines is already $20. That's quite big. And there lies the weakness of multi-line: They bite big into your bankroll, fast.
To extend your bankroll's lifespan, you have to play a multi-line slot of a low denomination. Casinos now offer multi-line slots that charge only a penny per spin. These penny slot machines are the latest craze in the slots world, and the casinos can't be happier.
On the surface, penny slots may look like a great deal. However there are changes to it that should tell you the odds are really no better than in higher denomination slots. For example, some penny slots will have you betting 1,500 credits on each spin for the max bet. That's $15 per spin. Not that cheap, is it?
A penny slot is not a bad thing. If you are looking for a couple of hours of fun in the casino, penny slots are for you. But if you are a serious full-time gambler, know that the penny slots are a no better deal than the rest.
If you do play multi-lines regardless of it being a penny slot or not, watch your bets. Do not use all paylines if you can't afford it, or you will run out of money quickly. In special situations like when you hit a wild symbol or two, it is wise to increase the lines for more chances of a hit. But do not max out every time. Instead, stay in the middle so that if you do hit, the payout will still be good. Good luck with the slots and have fun always!