The fact that people don't really understand how online slot machines work in terms of the Random Number Generator RNG used, has led to several myths that players believe in. Here are four of the most common.

1. Someone hit a jackpot on the machine you just left; you would have gotten that jackpot if you kept playing

The RNG in all online slot machines is calculating numbers when the machine is and is not being played, it never stops. When you press play, the RNG picks the combination at that exact given time. If you had continued playing the slot machine, it is unlikely that you would have stopped the RNG at the exact microsecond to display that exact same combination of numbers, as the person who won. Both you and the other player would have effectively had to hit play at the exact same time that's within 1/1000 of a second. The odds of this exact play at the exact same time for both players are highly unlikely. In conclusion, don't feel bad about the player who hit the jackpot after you, it was pure lady luck as they say and nothing more!

2. You can tell the odds of winning by counting the symbols on each wheel

The RNG generates a number for each spin. The number corresponds to the symbols on the Reel. There can be hundreds of Virtual stops on each reel even though you see far fewer symbols. Being able to generate millions of combinations is the reason that online slot machines can offer such large payouts, as the chances of hitting jackpots are rare. You may see 15 reels and calculate the odds as 15 x 15 x 15 1:3,375. However, what you don't see are the virtual stops, and this could be a 100 or more per reel! At 100 per reel, it would be 100 x 100 x 100, or odds of 1:1,000,000. Ever wondered how they finance those million pound payouts? Now you know!

3. Casinos Can Change Percentage Payouts

No, they can't! Online slot machines have payouts determined by the computer chip in them that determines the pay back percentage. These are preset and can't be changed. In order for a casino to change the payback, they would have to change the chip and there are rules and regulations set by online gaming regulators to prevent this. Anyway why bother, the house edge is their profit, and most casinos are more than happy with that! Check the payback before playing, and ensure you do have the best payback before you play. Only online slot machines with payouts of 95% or higher should be played.

4. Online Slot Machines That Have Not Paid Out For While - The Jackpot Is Next!

Each spin of any online slot machine is random and is unrelated to the previous spin. The length of time a slot is played without winning has no influence on its readiness to pay. Any slot can go months or years without paying its top jackpot. It maintains the programmed payoff percentage simply by paying smaller wins.

The above misconceptions are common and as you can see from knowing how the RNG works, it is lady luck that determines the huge jackpot payback as far as the player is concerned.