What Is the Difference Between Slot Machines and VLTs
You heard about slot machines and VLTs and probably thought that they were the same type of games. However, in this article, we will show you the real difference between the two types and provide a full description of each of them so you can choose the game that suits your interests.
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Definition and Purpose
The first part of the review is dedicated to the definition of both terms and their purposes. Here, we will dive into the history of these two game types and explain them to you all in detail. What is more, you can play both slots and VLTs in the 1xBet online casino in India.
Slot Machines
Slot machines or slots were invented in 1891. They have many other names in different countries. For example, Australians call them “Pokies,” and some other people call them “Fruit Machines.” These are the games with several reels and rows that have a set of random winning combinations. The reason so many people like slot machines is that they require no skills and offer simple rules and chances to win a huge amount of money. Players can find them on any casino platforms because they are hugely popular among users.
Explanation of Traditional Slot Machines
The traditional slot machines were exclusively with fruits and vegetables and the classic sevens symbols. Normally, they have several reels and only one row of symbols. Today’s slots have a more complecated structure.
Every slot has various RTP rates that indicate the possibility of a user winning. So, if the rate is 95% and higher, you can consider this machine as a beneficial one. Moreover, it is vital to pay attention to the studio and provider that developed it. The more famous it is, the better the games it releases are.
Overview of Their Purposes and Typical Use
Typically, slot machines are very attractive because people can play for little money sums. If you play them online, you also have an opportunity to try them in a demo regime without wagering your funds. Instead, you have a virtual account you can use to play and see how it works and if you like the gameplay. Punters can operate slot machines by clicking on various buttons.
VLTs
Video Lottery Terminals, or VLTs, are another type of gaming entertainment. Normally, they offer users the ability to play games such as slots, video poker, blackjack, and many others. A punter needs to guess the outcome of the game by betting with real funds.
Explanation of VLTs
The VLTs are connected to one central computer that determines the payout amounts to those who succeeded. Thus, the connection here plays a vital role, unlike slots that work without any centralized support. The algorithm here is the same as with the classic slot machines, meaning that you need to place a bet and start playing. The VLTs have a video screen interface where a user can touch the option and a game to choose it.
Overview of Their Purposes and Typical Use
You can play VLTs in online and offline casinos, bars, and other establishments that allow them. The VLTs normally offer a wide range of different games punters can choose to play. Therefore, they offer bigger opportunities for players. Also, these machines more often contribute to public charity organizations and are used as sources of government revenue.
Operational Differences
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After a short overview, we can take a closer look at the operational differences between the slot machines and VLTs. You can learn more about such terms as RNG and Central Server control and see how each of the types functions.
Slot Machines
If you have seen or even tried slot machines, then you are probably aware that they mainly produce an unpredicted game outcome that makes it fair for all the players. So, this is the basic mechanism of how they usually operate. There are two types of slot machines: the physical ones, which you can find in bars, casinos, and other venues, and digital slots that are available on online casino platforms.
How They Operate
First of all, let’s see the difference between mechanical and digital slot machines. The first one represents a real automatic gaming machine that allows you to find in-ground casinos in allowed locations, such as Las Vegas. The digital slots are more accessible since you can play them online regardless of your location. The mechanism here is similar. A player needs to insert money or, if the play happens online, place a bet and then push the button to launch the slot.
The reels will start spinning, and in several seconds, you will see the symbols drop and stop one by one to display the whole combination on the screen. It can be the lucky one that allows you to win or the opposite. If the victory is yours, then, in the ground casino, you receive chips you can exchange for money at the cashier later, and if you play online, the winnings will automatically enter your balance.
RNG Usage in Determining Outcomes
The Random Number Generator is the mechanism that allows the game to result in some unexpected outcome. The RNG mechanics make it difficult for players to calculate the possible result, which makes the whole game fair.
VLTs
The VLTs are slightly different from slots in the way they function. An ordinary user may think that a slot machine and VLT is something of the kind. However, in reality, video lottery terminals need technology other than RNG to operate.
How They Operate
All the VLT terminals are connected via a Networking system to a main server and computer where all the calculations and payouts are made. In comparison to slots, the VLTs are managed through an installed software that is connected with the computer.
Central Server Control and Outcome Determination
The outcome of the game here can be a bit more random in comparison to slots because it is determined by the main computer. It is usually more difficult to guess the outcome, and as a result it can be much fun to play the VLTs.
Location and Accessibility
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The next stage of the review is to compare the level of accessibility of slots and VLTs. Basically, if the location you are in allows the machines, you can find plenty of them in public places. We will take a look at them later in the text.
Slot Machines
Slots are the most popular casino gaming category. It even beats the all-loved roulette and poker games. Therefore, there are plenty of locations where punters can find and play them in the areas where they are allowed. Besides, you can easily reach them if you have a stable Internet and a connected device.
Common Locations
There are some territories where gambling is not forbidden. Therefore, you can find many casinos and other venues that place slot and VLT machines inside for visitors to try their luck. It is a common situation when cruise ships and bars place slot machines to attract more visitors.
Availability in Different Jurisdictions
If we check the globe, we can find many places where you can freely try slots. However, if you plan to play real slot machines located somewhere in Vegas, Canada, and other areas, you should know that there are games that are prohibited to play in these locations due to their features and other specifics.
VLTs
The VLTs are no less sought after, and are also placed in particular locations where it is not prohibited by law. In allowed areas there are plenty of VLT machines where you can try different games, from roulette to blackjack.
Common Locations
Players can find VLTs in various bars, restaurants, and racetracks. It is a common case when you come to have dinner or to watch some sports events, like horse races and others, and you can spend a dollar or two to enjoy the VLTs.
Availability and Regulations in Various Regions
As we have already mentioned, the VLTs can be located only in particular areas. However, if you play online, you certainly have more access to all the types. In some directories there can be restrictions for particular gaming providers or games due to their features. So, it is surely a better way to try them online instead of offline.
Game Variety and Features
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The next criteria in our comparison review is about the content. The variety of games is an essential part of a successful gambling experience.
Slot Machines
Classic slots and modern ones offer users to play one game in total. It can be fulfilled with multiple side quests, additional bonuses and rewards but you still will be playing one particular game with reels and rows.
Types of Games Offered
However, if we observe the whole number of existing games, we will see that this number is difficult to utter since it is so huge. Mainly, casinos and venues purchase top-tier slot machines from eminent gaming studios and providers that help avoid any problems and unfair gameplay. Slots have the following subtypes to offer:
- Classic
- Video slots
- Megaways
- Progressive Jackpots.
The whole variety of options is excellent. Punters can choose between different themes and operators.
Special Features and Bonus Rounds
During the gameplay players can win extra rewards, such as bonus rounds, free spins, multipliers, and some other freebies. These features are integrated in the machine to keep a player entertained and stimulate their activity.
VLTs
VLTs also offer users a range of several games within one terminal. It is very convenient because you don’t need to switch to another machine and can choose what you need right here. So, let’s see which games are there to select from.
Types of Games Offered
Normally VLTs offer players to try poker, Keno, lotteries, scratch cards, bingo, and other games. Punters can choose the one they like and place a bet.
Integration of Lottery Games and Unique Features
Due to the VLTs lottery-based nature, these machines are more tightly regulated than slots. Besides, the VLTs have more options within one terminal while slots can offer you just one main game. In a lottery terminal you can choose more games, their configuration and type.
Payout Systems
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Both slots and VLTs have a bit different payout systems. It means that when punters win they need to get paid and it happens differently with these types of games. In this part we will take a closer look at how it works and learn which type of the machine can promise you a more beneficial payout.
Slot Machines
Slots tend to attract much attention due to the simplicity of their use. Punters don’t need to know any difficult rules and remember them. All players need to do is place a bet and launch the machine by pressing the button. All the process happens automatically.
Explanation of Payout Percentages and House Edge
If you played slots, you probably heard about such a term as a house edge. This means that the casino needs to keep a particular amount of money regardless of the outcome of the gaming session. And the payout percentage is the opposite term, which means the sum a player gets as the reward.
Mechanisms for Paying Out the Winnings
In general, slots function on the RNG principle when the mechanism decides on the outcome, and if you guess correctly, you will get a payout. Also, some modern slots function with the Megaways technology that significantly broadens the variety of possible winning combinations for a player and also has a broader gap for outcomes.
VLTs
VLTs operate differently, and payouts happen based on a different mechanism. The set of games offered by the terminal is more complicated, from roulette and poker to bingo and some other types. Therefore, their outcome is a bit more complex to provide.
Explanation of How VLT Payouts Are Determined
In comparison to slots the VLTs offer lower but more consistent payouts. It means that punters have a higher RTP rate and win more often but the amount they receive is not huge. The payout rate is determined by the main central computer that manages the machine.
Differences in Payout Systems Compared to Slot Machines
So, the main difference between the slots and the VLTs follows. The latter has a centralized management system, where slots are set manually and offer users instant payouts based on their system mechanism.
Regulatory Differences
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We have already partially written about the specifics of slots and VLTs when describing their possible locations. However, the regulatory aspects also vary. So, here, we will observe some crucial differences between the games from the regulatory aspect.
Slot Machines
Slots are more common for casinos and their locations because they have some limitations based on the areas. Slot machines also should have the necessary license to operate and be released by a quality and certified gaming software provider. So, here, we will see what jurisdictions allow their placement.
Overview of Regulations Governing Slot Machines
You can find slot machines in many places other than a casino itself. Besides, slots are accessible online on any gambling platform. So, instead of visiting and playing them physically, punters can play a particular game without any restrictions via a laptop. Anyway you will get access to those games that are allowed in your country.
Variation in Regulations Across Jurisdictions
Even within one country, the regulations can vary and be adjusted in accordance with the state law. For instance, some locations and countries, like the Netherlands, prohibit the use of the “Auto” feature. So, it is a common situation when you cannot play the games of a particular provider due to the set of restricted features.
VLTs
The VLTs have even more strict regulations, as we have already mentioned before. Since they offer a set of lottery-based games, they also should be licensed and produced by a quality and reputable developer, so the casino and other allowed establishments that offer them may be sure they are not fraud.
Overview of Regulatory Framework for VLTs
VLTs can be installed in bars, casinos, and other venues. However, they should have a proper license applicable to the jurisdiction they are located in and have appropriate service support to make sure that everything operates correctly.
Differences in VLTs Regulatory Compared to Slot Machines
The VLTs have other regulatory aspects than slots. If the area allows lottery games, then VLTs can legitimately operate in the area. Besides, the managing algorithm can slightly differ, for instance, in Canada and Curacao. So, you need to explore the particular area to understand where you can find the VLTs.
Conclusion
In the review, you have learned more about the differences between slot machines and VLTs. So, we hope they don’t seem that similar now. Anyway, both options have lots of fun if you choose to play games and machines from respectable gaming studios.
