How to win more on slots?

Spent a rainy afternoon at a casino here in Bali the other day—figured I’d give the slots a shot since the poker tables were packed. Didn’t hit any big wins, but it got me thinking: is there a way to boost your odds, or is it all just luck? I know slots are RNG (random number generator) based, so it’s a gamble every spin. But from what I’ve read and heard, things like RTP (Return to Player) percentages and volatility levels can make a difference.

Understanding RTP and Volatility​

RTP basically shows how much a machine pays back over time. If it’s 96%, you’re theoretically getting $96 back for every $100 wagered—though, obviously, results can swing wildly. Volatility is more about how you win—low volatility means smaller, more frequent payouts, while high volatility slots hit bigger, but less often. Since I’m not rolling with a massive bankroll, I lean toward low or medium volatility so I can stretch my sessions longer.

Finding the Right Machine​

One thing I learned from chatting with other players is to avoid flashy, movie-themed slots or those with massive progressive jackpots. They might look fun, but their RTPs are usually lower. Instead, simple 3-reel games like Double Gold or Triple Stars tend to hit more consistently. Also, video poker can be a solid option if you know basic strategy—apparently, it's got some of the best RTP in the casino.

Bankroll Management​

This tip stuck with me: Take your total bankroll, split it into smaller chunks, and only play one chunk per machine. For example, if I’ve got $100, I’ll put $20 into one machine and stop as soon as I double it or hit a bonus. Then I cash out, pocket the winnings, and move on. This way, I stretch my session and lock in profits when I can. It’s helped me avoid chasing losses, which is where most people get burned.

Tips from Other Players​

• Avoid "must-hit-by" machines unless they’re close to the payout limit. Otherwise, you're just feeding the jackpot for someone else.
• Check the RTP on the machine’s info screen (some casinos show it if you hit the “i” button). If not, you can usually find it online.
• Skip progressive jackpots unless you're okay with super long odds. The big money’s tempting, but the odds are stacked against you.
• Stick to higher denominations if possible. A $2 bet on a nickel machine often has a better RTP than max betting on a penny slot.

Superstitions and Strategies​

I know luck plays the biggest role, but I’ve heard people swear by timing—like playing machines that haven’t hit in a while. I’m not sure if that actually works, but I do have one ritual: I seem to win more when I’m smoking a Marb Light at the machine (must be the nicotine luck boost ).

Final Thoughts​

At the end of the day, slots are a game of chance. Play for fun, not profit, and it’s a lot more enjoyable. That said, choosing machines with better odds and managing your bankroll can definitely help you win more often—or at least lose more slowly. And hey, sometimes it really is about hitting the right button at the right time.

If anyone’s cracked the code or has a favorite machine that treats them right, drop your tips—I’m always looking to up my game!