The way people choose lottery numbers varies from person to person. While there’s no foolproof method to guarantee a win—or else we’d all be millionaires—adopting a strategy can still be a smart approach. For example, some individuals analyze past lottery draws to detect potential patterns, while others might choose their numbers based on Zodiac signs.
When considering how to pick lottery numbers, it’s crucial to remember that the lottery draw is ultimately a game of chance. Finding creative ways to pick numbers could be an entertaining way to participate in the excitement surrounding a massive jackpot.
Choosing Important or “Famous” Numbers
When selecting lottery numbers, many players gravitate toward those that hold personal or cultural significance. A common approach is to choose dates of special events, such as birthdays or anniversaries, which often leads to selecting numbers under 31. However, this method can limit the range of potentially winning numbers, as most lotteries have higher number options.
From a cultural standpoint, some numbers hold bigger significance than others. For example, the number 17 is considered unlucky in Italy due to its Roman numeral representation, XVII, which can be rearranged to form the word “vixi”—a Latin verb suggesting the end of life.
Choosing this number could be a good strategy as it’s more likely that people won’t pick them, reducing the chances of a shared win. However, there are two numbers that are the most popular choices for lottery players—7 and 13.
Number 7
Widely considered lucky: The number 7 is frequently seen as a symbol of good fortune in many cultures and situations.
Increased sharing risk: Due to its popularity, the winning number 7 might result in sharing the prize with multiple participants.
Common in patterns: It’s often used in sequences like 7, 14, 21, etc., in lottery selections.
Influence by media and folklore: It’s sometimes depicted as lucky in stories and films.
Number 13
Unlucky connotations: Often perceived as a harbinger of misfortune, particularly in Western societies.
Rare in lottery wins: 13 is one of the numbers that are seldom included in the jackpot numbers.
Avoided in the US: One of the least popular numbers chosen for lotteries like Powerball.
A unique choice for lotteries: Some players pick the number 13 to avoid competition.
Choices Based on Statistics
For every pragmatic person who may not believe in selecting lottery numbers based on superstition, there’s a wealth of statistical information to consider. Each lottery draw offers insights into which numbers appear most frequently and potentially holds the key to picking the winning ones.
In the UK, for instance, the numbers 23, 40, 38, 30, 33, and 44 have emerged more often than others, making them potentially attractive choices for players.
In the US-based Powerball lottery, the numbers that are drawn most frequently are 1, 26, 18, 10, 2, 12, 11, 9, 6, and 20.Additionally, other factors can be taken into account, like identifying numbers that are overdue or recognizing the most commonly drawn pairs. This approach is grounded in analyzing past draw data of lottery providers rather than relying on superstition.
Going Random
Given the lottery’s inherent randomness, it makes sense to choose your numbers in a similarly random fashion. What’s the first number that pops into your head? That’s your starting point.
That being said, the ways you select numbers are limited only by your imagination. You can, for instance, drop a pen on a lottery ticket and pick the number it lands on or use any other technique.
While we could spend hours discussing various number-picking methods, it’s more fun to try them out yourself. The key is to end up with the right amount of numbers for your ticket. This approach is a favorite for many because it’s quick, effortless, and lets luck do the work.
Additionally, there’s a larger chance your numbers will be unique compared to other lottery players, meaning that you will get a bigger piece of the pie if you win!
Being Consistent
Adhering to the same set of numbers each week is a simple yet popular strategy among lottery players. This approach involves selecting numbers that you feel particularly connected to or believe are lucky and using them for every lottery draw you participate in.
The benefit of this method lies in its long-term potential. You create a routine and a personal connection to these numbers, which can be both comforting and exciting. This strategy is straightforward and eliminates the need to decide on new numbers for each draw.
Calculating Lucky Numbers Based on Your Birth Date
Numerology has a lot to do with self-discovery and predicting the future. There’s a belief that you can find out the hidden meaning of life and the world around you by using it. There are a few ways in which numerology can help you predict lottery numbers.
To determine your unique sequence, consider various personal elements, such as your life path number, the numerical value of your first name, your birthdate number, the lucky number associated with your birth year, today’s date, and the date of the lottery draw.
For instance, let’s say that your date of birth is October 15, 1998.
Your life path number would be the sum of all those digits added together. In other words, if you chose your lottery number based on it, you would pick the number 1+5+1+0+1+9+9+8=34 to bet on.
You can use this formula to calculate the number of your birthdate and birth year, but you won’t need to add together as many digits. If we take the same date of birth, then the lottery number we need to pick is 1+5 = 6. Accordingly, the lucky number would be 1+9+9+8=27 when adding the digits of the birth year.
Selecting Numbers Over 31
The majority of people have low numbers in their selection because they often use their birthdays as the basis for the chosen numbers. As a result, numbers over 31 are less frequently used than the numbers under 31.
Therefore, there’s a smaller chance of someone winning the lottery with the same numbers as you if you use numbers over 31.
Picture this scenario—if there’s a $10 million jackpot and 10 people win, each person will receive a $1 million prize. On the other hand, if only two people win, each winner will receive $5 million.
Finding Numbers Using Your Name
Choosing the numbers for your lottery ticket can also be aided by your first name. The idea is that each letter of the alphabet corresponds to a particular number. By adding the different digits, you can get higher double-digit numbers that can be used as lottery numbers. You can find the number corresponding to each letter in the table below.
LOTTERY NUMBER
LETTERS IN YOUR NAME
1
AJS
2
BKT
3
CLU
4
DMV
5
ENW
6
FOX
7
GPY
8
HQZ
9
IR
Let’s say your name is Andrew. Represented numerically as 1, 5, 4, 9, 5, 5, you can create combinations like 15, 49, 55, etc. Additionally, you can use a sum of these numbers together to get your lottery numbers. In this case, the sum is 1+5+4+9+5+5, which equals 29.
Further breaking down 29 into 2+9 gives you 11. This value is your name number. You can then choose any number that adds up to this digit, such as 38 (3+8=11) or 47 (4+7=11). How you calculate and use these numbers in betting is your choice, but essentially, they become your personal lucky numbers based on your name.
Consulting the Stars
Throughout the history of lottery draws, many people have turned to mystical and astrological methods for guidance in selecting their numbers. Consulting the stars, a practice steeped in tradition, remains a popular method for those who believe in the influence of horoscopes and astrology on their fortunes.
If you’re intrigued by this age-old belief system, you might find your “magic numbers” through an analysis of your zodiac sign. Horoscopes, often tailored to individual signs, can offer suggestions for lucky numbers.
Deciding on a Number Selection Strategy That Works For You
The role of intuition or gut feeling in selecting lottery numbers is a fascinating aspect of lottery play. While there’s no scientific evidence to prove that numbers from various sources are more likely to win, these methods add a personal and often meaningful dimension to the whole experience.
The likelihood of winning remains random regardless of the selection method. However, if certain numbers resonate with you on a deeper level, choosing them can make this game more enjoyable and personally significant. The bottom line is that the thrill is universal, so sit back and enjoy the ride.
If you're new to poker, you might think that winning is all about luck. Using that logic, the luckiest players participate in the World Poker Series year after year. That doesn't sound realistic.
Poker is an ideal mix of chance and skill. Seasoned players often make profits by using a range of strategies and outplaying opponents to maximize their earnings. So, how do they make money exactly?
The Many Avenues of Profiting in Poker
There are several approaches to making money in poker, but each one has its unique benefits and challenges. Let's take a closer look at some of the most common tactics.
High Risk, High Reward Poker Tournaments
Tournaments are one of the most exciting events in the poker world. They offer players the chance to win large sums with relatively small buy-ins, making them an attractive option for many aspiring poker players.
However, tournaments also come with a high level of risk. The competition is fierce, and only a small percentage of players will rake in significant profit. To succeed, you need to be highly skilled and understand the game's nuances and strategies.
Cash Games and Their Challenges
Unlike tournaments, cash games are played with real money, and players can come and go as they please. This gives them the flexibility to play as long as they like.
It's important to keep in mind that cash games can be highly profitable but require skill and discipline. You can afford to take a few risks as opposed to more cautious tournament play. Still, you need to be able to read your opponents, manage your bankroll effectively, and make smart decisions about when to fold, call, or raise.
Rakeback
Rakeback is a critical aspect for professional poker players looking to maximize their earnings. In poker, the "rake" refers to a small percentage of the pot taken by the house as a fee for hosting the game. Rakeback is a system where players receive a portion of this rake back from the poker room or network. For pros, this can be a significant source of income, especially for those who play a high volume of hands. Pro players often negotiate rakeback deals with online poker sites or participate in loyalty programs that offer rakeback as a reward.
Playing Convenient Online Poker Games
In recent years, online poker has become increasingly popular, offering players the option to play from the comfort of their homes. The best poker sites offer a wide range of games and stakes, making it easy to find a game that suits your preferences.
Online poker can be highly profitable, but it also comes with its unique challenges. For one, you're playing against players worldwide, which means the competition is tougher. You also need to be able to prevent distractions from interfering with your gameplay.
Another fact is that you can't read your opponent's body language, making games more difficult for seasoned players. For new players, however, this can be a plus, as there's one less thing to think about.
The Skills and Strategies Required in Poker
As we mentioned earlier, the combination of know-how and planning is a must if you want to consistently beat your opponents in poker. Let's take a closer look at some of the most important tactics you need to get right if you want to make money in the game.
Understanding the Odds and Probabilities
Mastering poker requires a strong grasp of odds and probabilities. This involves calculating your chances of forming specific hands and anticipating your opponents' combinations. Knowing these odds makes it easier to understand when to bet, call, or fold and helps you determine if other players have strong hands.
Reading Opponents and Bluffing
In poker, reading your opponents is vital. It requires keen observation of their behavior, body language, and verbal cues to deduce their hand's strength. That's how you develop good judgment, helping you detect bluffs, recognize strong hands, and improve your own bluffing—a crucial tactic in many scenarios.
Discipline and Patience
Managing emotions and avoiding tilt are essential for proper decision-making. Patience is vital, including folding good hands when necessary and sticking to your strategy under all circumstances. Keeping all these things in check enhances your game and boosts your odds of winning. While success isn't guaranteed, such tactics pave the way to becoming a solid poker player.
Bankroll Management
The general rule of thumb is that you should never risk more than 5% of your total bankroll on any given hand. This means that if you have $1,000 in poker funds, you should never spend more than $50 on a single hand. By setting these limits, you can reduce the risk of going broke.
Furthermore, good bankroll management also involves understanding the different types of games and stakes that are available to you. You need to assess your skill level and choose games that are appropriate for your experience and budget.
Administrative Responsibilities of Pro Poker Players
For those who are serious about pursuing a career in poker, it's important to understand that it's not just a game; it's also a business. As a professional poker player, you need to effectively manage your income and expanses, and be aware of the legal regulations such as tax obligations.
Managing Income and Expenses
Effective income and expense management is crucial for a professional poker player. Balancing the high risks and potential rewards requires a sound plan. This involves smart budgeting, setting realistic earning and spending goals, and tracking progress to avoid unnecessary risks that threaten long-term financial stability.
Taxation and Legal Considerations
Understanding the legal aspects of being a professional poker player is a must. This means knowing the tax laws in your area and all relevant game regulations. Protecting yourself legally involves being aware of your rights and obligations and consulting with professionals to address any legal matters.
Tips for Aspiring Poker Players
If you're interested in having a career in poker, a few key tips can help you get started.
Focus on improving your skills and understanding of the game. This means studying the odds and probabilities to be able to read opponents and bluff effectively.
Securing sponsorship is one of the key things when starting out. Many lower ranked poker players play under the umbrella of bigger poker players, providing them financial stability until they reach certain career earnings.
While it's good to have a general understanding of all poker formats, specializing in one (like Texas Hold'em, Pot-Limit Omaha, etc.) can be more beneficial. This allows you to become an expert in that specific format.
Develop good bankroll management skills and be patient and disciplined in your approach to the game.
Common Challenges Pro Poker Players Face
Professional poker players, whether playing online or in live settings, face a myriad of challenges that can affect their performance and profitability. Here are some common issues they encounter:
Bankroll Fluctuations: Even the most skilled poker players experience significant swings in their bankroll. The inherent variance in the game can lead to periods of substantial losses, which can be mentally and financially challenging.
Advanced Software Use in Online Poker: Many online players now use software to gain an edge. This includes programs that analyze vast amounts of data to determine the most profitable seats at a table, often targeting fishes. Such software can significantly alter the dynamics of online poker, making it tougher for even skilled players to maintain an edge.
Emotional and Mental Stress: The ups and downs of poker can be emotionally taxing. Handling the stress of losing, managing the high of winning, and maintaining a level head under pressure are vital skills. The mental and emotional toll of poker is often underestimated and can impact decision-making and overall well-being.
Lifestyle Management: The lifestyle of a professional poker player can be unstructured and unpredictable, with irregular hours and extensive travel. Furthermore, they often suffer from stereotypes and biases, as some people consider this path more of a gamble than a serious career.
Is Poker a Viable Career Option?
After examining the many avenues of making money by playing poker, the skills and strategies needed to succeed in the game, and the business considerations involved in pursuing a career as a professional player, the question remains—is poker a viable career option? The answer is not simple.
While it's true that some players can make a comfortable living from poker, the game is highly competitive, especially in online poker tournaments, and success is never guaranteed. It requires a significant investment of time, energy, and resources, as well as a great deal of skill and discipline.
As the industry evolves, those who adapt, stay informed, and remain committed to honing their craft will find poker to be not just a game but a viable, rewarding career. For aspiring players, the path is clear—focus on skill development, strategic play, and personal branding to carve out a successful future in the ever-competitive world of poker.
Super Bowl fun prop bets are an unusual way to add spice to the big game. Super Bowl prop bets, for those unfamiliar, are wagers on any specific occurrence during the game.
But while betting on the winner of the Super Bowl is a popular option, another type of wager can add some extra excitement to your viewing experience – the player prop market. Super Bowl Player Props are wagers on individual players' performances in specific categories and are a great way to make the game more entertaining.
Super Bowl prop bets are a fun way to participate in the game, whether you're a die-hard fan or just looking for something to keep you entertained. You don't have to be a football whiz to participate in them. To make a forecast, you must consider what could happen throughout one game. Furthermore, the costs are low, and the return for a successful NFL player prop bets is substantial. The game is also an excellent chance for sportsbooks to offer Super Bowl-related bonuses.
Fun Super Bowl Prop Bets
Experienced Super Bowl prop bettors look for value everywhere, even in the most exotic offers. The national anthem's duration and the Gatorade shower's color are examples of such details, and even coin toss props have been available for quite some time.
Super Bowl LVII also features Rihanna during the Halftime Show. You can guess the first and the last song, the number of total songs performed, her hair and dress color, and who will join her on stage.
For example, Umbrella is the song most likely to be performed. But the payoff is minimal, with –5000 odds. So, if you believe she'll perform this song, you can try with Jay-Z appearing on stage with her. Those odds are –200.
Super Bowl Betting: 2023 Super Bowl Odds
You can bet on the game itself. The Eagles are –1.5-point favorites against the spread with –110 odds. You can also pick the teams on the MoneyLine, Chiefs at +105 and Eagles at -125.
During the preseason, you could've picked the Chiefs at +1000, the Eagles at +2000, and even at +2500 at some betting establishments.
Best Super Bowl Player Prop Bets
Before delving into individual lines, exotic player props, and the best Super Bowl player props, here is a simple Super Bowl prop bet list of the most common player props. Quarterbacks touch the ball on practically all offensive plays, so those player props are the most attractive. Super Bowl Player Passing Props include:
Quarterback passing yards over/under
QB touchdown passes over/under
QB pass completions O/U
QB pass attempts O/Us
First completion over/under
Will QB record an INT during Super Bowl
Race between quarterbacks to 200 or 250 yards
Combined passing and rushing yards by QB
Alternate passing TDs and alt passing yards
The exact number of passing TDs
Over/under and totals for players' rushing yards, rushing attempts and rushing touchdowns are the most popular rushing props. Taking Jalen Hurts 40+ rushing yards at -245 is a good bet. There is also a race to 10, 25, and 50 rushing yards.
Common Super Bowl props for receivers include receiving yards, receptions, and the player to record a first or longest reception. Marquez Valdes-Scantling had a solid playoff run, so if you think that will continue, take 50+ yards at +164.
Total points scored by the kicker is a typical example of a kicking prop, while defensive contributions like tackles, sacks, and interceptions are standard examples of defensive props. Frank Clark has one sack in each of the two Super Bowls he played, so if he repeats that, you can get +124.
Same-game parlay
If you follow the NFL, you know what players are prominently featured in teams' offenses. So, if you think the Chiefs will win, you're banking on Mahomes and Kelce having a big game.
On the other hand, if you prefer the Eagles, you should look into Jalen Hurts to go over rushing yards or to score a rushing touchdown. Sportsbooks today give excellent odds for these types of bets.
Live Betting Player Props
Although the game has begun, betting on player props is still possible. Super Bowl live betting approach involves keeping an eye out for developing circumstances to locate extra value on player props as the game progresses. Sadly, injuries are a part of this equation. So, if a starting offensive skill player suffers an injury, you can find value by reacting quickly. NFL is a complex business, and the next-man-up mentality is at the core of it.
Best Super Bowl MVP Prop Bets
The best MVP chances always go to the winning QB. Sportsbooks know this, so both QBs are given +120 odds for Hurts and +135 for Mahomes. If you want to play it safe, you can always go with the Quarterback.
Depending on who you think will win, you can try other long shots. These are the best Super Bowl MVP odds:
Travis Kelce +1600
AJ Brown +1800
Miles Sanders +2500
Chris Jones +5000
You can also take the field against both Quarterbacks at +260, or just bet on Mahomes and Hurts, so you don't have to worry about the game's outcome. Those odds are -380.
Best Super Bowl Team Prop Bets
One of the most exciting Props includes 1st Drive Result. Both teams are highly efficient offensively, but nerves could be an issue. That's why Field Goal Attempt odds look nice at +430. If you don't think the pressure will make an impact, an offensive touchdown can bring you +260. Other options are a punt at +105 or any different outcome of the first drive at +500.
You can find other intriguing game props with team totals. The team with more time of possession in the game seems likelier to be Philly, regardless of the result, so that you can get that at -144. Chiefs, you can get at +116.
The line for total net offensive yards is 739.5, so to hit the over, you're hoping for steady yard accumulation or one team's offensive explosion. Total points are always a good bet, but look at the alternates: over 46.5 at -199 odds seems safe.
Crossover props
Even though the Super Bowl is a huge player props betting event, it is not the only game played on Sunday. Additionally, there will be other sporting events. Crossover props at legit sportsbooks let you combine wagers from both categories.
Some common proposition bets that span sports are as follows:
The Super Bowl champion and the winner of any other soccer, NBA or NHL game
Over/under player props for NBA stars against individual Super Bowl props, such as Jalen Hurts' passing yards. The night before the Super Bowl, the NBA has 11 scheduled games.
Total points/goals scored in both the Super Bowl and another game that day, such as two Premier League games.
You can bet totals between players. For example, Ja Morant vs. Travis Kelce: total points, rebounds, and assists the young point guard will get against the Boston Celtics versus Kelce's first-half receiving yards.
Unlikely Super Bowl prop bets
Super Bowl Props 101 is to avoid rare occurrences. There were only nine safeties in Super Bowl history. The last one came in Super Bowl XLVIII nine years ago.
Another bet to avoid is opening kickoff return touchdown. That happened once when the best returner in NFL history, Devin Hester, scored for the Bears against the Colts in Super Bowl XLI.
What is even less likely is the Super Bowl MVP being on the losing team. Chuck Howley is the only player to receive that honor after Super Bowl V.
So, if you're looking to pick a Super Bowl MVP, you can easily parlay it with the Super Bowl winner to increase your return.
Super Bowl Props Betting Strategy – Tips and Tricks
While the spread and total are where most sharp bettors put their money, prop bets are a fun way to keep you interested in the Super Bowl Sunday game. Additionally, winning enhances the excitement considerably. Therefore, let's discuss the fundamentals for crafting a winning Super Bowl props approach.
Watch your bankroll
Hunt the best lines. Betting on anything, especially player props, necessitates access to various sportsbooks and the ability to compare the odds between books.
One of the things to consider when trying to handicap a player prop is how often a player has hit that figure. You might look at a player's favorable matchup and solid projection and conclude that betting on the over is a no-brainer. Looking at the frequency, though, can give a different image.
But matchups do matter, to some degree. Analyze the top and bottom five numbers and seek opportunities there. The projected edge is lower if a team's measures are closer to the average.
Prioritize prop value over the type of prop. When comparing props, those with only two options, like over/under or yes/no, tend to favor bettors, while those with more tend to have higher vig.
Remember that the Super Bowl is one of the year's most extraordinary sports betting events and that the odds shift rapidly in response to heavy action and early wagers. You will have to do window browsing online and move quickly when you see something promising.
Lines change rapidly. Player props aren't as liquid as sides or totals, and when they're getting too much movement, they might suddenly even be withdrawn from the market. Also, lines are at their most pliable right after they've been released, so if you don't jump on them right away, someone else probably will. As lines shift in response to wagers, the market becomes more liquid and productive.
Favorite NFL Super Bowl Props
To sum up, use all the info provided in the guide part of this article. However, to help you out, here are some of the more popular player prop bets available and the logic behind them:
Kenneth Gainwell – over 11.5 receiving yards: Gainwell stepped up in two Eagles playoff games. Primarily used as a runner, Gainwell got 160 yards on 26 carries, but he also had three catches for 35 yards. So, we need one or two check-downs by Hurst to collect on -115 odds. Gainwell carries the best Super Bowl over/under yards prop bets. Even rushing yards over at 19.5 yards is promising.
Travis Kelce: Super Bowl Anytime Touchdown Scorer -135 odds: Kelce is the best tight end in the league. Even if the Eagles deploy double coverage, Kelce and Mahomes always find open space on extended plays out of the pocket.
Parlay Travis Kelce Anytime Touchdown Scorer bet with 85+ receiving yards, and Isiah Pacheco 55+ Rushing Yards – +500
Fun Super Bowl Prop Picks
You can find value even in some more fun bets. Philly special is still on everyone's mind. So, if you think the Eagles will do something like that again, or you believe Chiefs head coach Andy Reid, who is also no stranger to trick plays, will call a similar play – you can bet any non-QB to have 1+ pass TD at +2200
You can also consider +1200 odds for any QB to have a reception, but keep in mind that Patrick Mahomes is still carrying an ankle injury, so this is primarily a bet on Jalen Hurts' athleticism.
The efficiency of both offenses is already mentioned, so whoever wins the toss and gets the ball can score first and hold on to that lead. So, think about parlaying both teams to win the coin toss and the game – it's +300 for the Chiefs and +250 for the Eagles.
Here are some more picks that qualify as fun Super Bowl prop bets:
Any Offensive Lineman to Score 1+ Rec TD at +3500
Patrick Mahomes First Player to Reach 25+ Rushing Yards in +2000
Jalen Hurts to have 30+ rushing yards in both halves +650
Marquez Valdes-Scantling First Chiefs Player to Reach 25+ Receiving Yards +550
Super Bowl LVII and Fun Facts
Super Bowl LVII will be held at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, on Sunday, February 12, 2023, at 6:30 PM Eastern Time.
Fox will air Super Bowl LVII, and Kevin Burkhardt and former NFL tight end Greg Olsen will debut as game announcers.
Both franchises are relatively recent Super Bowl champions. The Eagles defeated the Patriots to win their first Super Bowl in 2018, and the Chiefs beat the 49ers to win their second Lombardi Trophy in 2020.
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Super Bowl Prop Bets FAQ
What are some fun bets for the Super Bowl?
You can make exotic prop bets for Super Bowl 57, including National Anthem Prop Bets, Coin Toss Prop Bets, Halftime Prop Bets, TV Broadcast Prop Bets, Commercial Prop Bets, and Cross-Sport Prop Bets.
How do Super Bowl prop bets work?
Bets on something other than the winner or the total points scored are known as props. Prop bets can be placed any time before, during, or after the game. They can be placed on virtually any aspect of a game.
What are the most popular Super Bowl bets?
How many Super Bowl prop bets are there?
From the more traditional props, such as QB passing yards, to the more outlandish postgame Super Bowl 57 prop bets, like the color of the coach's Gatorade shower, there are hundreds of potential Super Bowl Prop Bets.
A slot machine is a gambling device that generates a game of chance, and it’s also known as a fruit machine and pokies in Australia and New Zealand. In this article, I’ll explain how to play slot machines, but before that, I’ll look into the history, terminology, and strategy so that you can fully understand the process and what it takes to win.
History of Slots
In 1891 in Brooklyn, Sittman and Pitt created a gaming device that foreshadowed the current slot machine. This poker-themed set has five drums with fifty different card designs. Very soon, many bars in the city had at least one of these machines, which became an instant hit.
People would put a nickel in, pull a lever, and the drums would spin, dealing out cards in the hopes of a winning poker hand.
Given the lack of a standardized payment structure, players could win everything from free beer to cigars or drinks for a royal flush. The odds against getting a royal flush were doubled by cutting the ten of spades and the jack of hearts from the deck, increasing the house's advantage. A player's odds of winning could be further diminished by shuffling the drums around.
In 1894, a San Francisco resident, Charles Fey, invented the first slot machine. Namely, he's credited with inventing the now-familiar design of the Liberty Bell, which was a three-reel, one-payline slot machine with an automatic payment mechanism.
Although Fey's slot machine was an instant hit, the game has evolved significantly since its inception.
In 1907, slot machine reels began featuring fruit symbols, while just playing card symbols were employed in the past.
In the 1920s, Mills Novelty Co. developed a feature called Skill Stop, which allowed the player to pause the reels and try to affect the game's outcome.
Money Honey, the first ever electronic slot machine, was introduced in 1963 by Bally, a company well-known in Illinois's video gaming terminal (VGT) industry.
Fortune Coin Co. of Las Vegas, Nevada, created the first video slot machine in 1976 in Kearny Mesa, California.
In 1978, IGT (International Gaming Technology) bought Fortune Coin Co. and their video slot machine technology.
Reel 'Em In, created by WMS Industries in 1996, was the first American video slot machine to feature a second screen bonus round.
Since at least 1994, when the game Three Bags Full was released, Australia had machines of this type.
Classic slot machines were crucial for the rise of Las Vegas as a casino heaven as they are ideal for first-time slot players because they are fast, easy to learn, and play.
How to Play Slot Machines
In the following sections, I provided information about how to play slots in land-based and online casinos.
Playing Online Slots
When it comes to playing online slots, here are some things you should know:
Do a research and pick a slot game with good RTP or return to player, percentage, and volatility.
Try a demo version of the game, and if it looks good to you, start playing.
Set a budget limit to manage your funds, so you don't lose more than you want. Upon reaching the limit, stop playing for a while.
Keeping in mind your budget, place bets on the number of paylines you see fit. If you bet on more than one paylline, you can get more winnings.
Upon winning a big prize, players stop playing in order not to lose money.
Slot Machine Etiquette
When you’re playing in brick-and-mortar casinos, there are unwritten rules for playing slots:
If you’re a dedicated gamer who often plays on many machines at once and switches between them, then ensure that the slot machine you pick isn't used by anyone else.
The seat could be taken even if there's no one occupying it.
Play only on one machine at a time when the casino is crowded.
You're playing against the casino, not other players.
Don't let defeat rattle you. It's all about fun and has nothing to do with the machines, the staff, or the other players.
It's advisable to play while you're feeling your best, and if you're feeling hungry, sleepy, or grumpy, it's best to skip the slots and save your money for a better time.
Payouts
Slot machines are set to return anything from 0 to 99% of gambled money. The theoretical payout percentage, known as return to player, is the proportion of money that should be returned to the player. What's good to know is that the minimum potential payout percentage is often set by legislation and varies between jurisdictions.
Winning patterns on slot machines are calculated to give the house a certain percentage of the real money wagered while giving the remaining funds to players.
A return to player percentage of 97% means that after a large number of spins, say 1,000,000, the machine will pay out $970,000 on average.
Types of Slots
In this section, I'll provide more information about the different types of slot games you can find in online and land-based casinos.
Classic slots
The classic online slot is the most basic type of online slot game, sometimes referred to as one-armed bandit, an old mechanical machine with a lever that the player pulled to make the machine spin inspired the nickname.
Classic slots are a good choice for players who like to keep things simple, as most classic slots have only one horizontal payline across three reels. People who have never played a slot machine before will appreciate how easy it is to play on it. Three-reel slots usually have fewer betting options and are preferred by players with smaller budgets and those who like to have a speedy gambling experience.
The fact that they only have a few reels reduces the number of possible winning combinations. Also, the variance is very high, which means that players can either win big or lose fast. Although they use random number generators (RNG), online versions of classic slots usually pay more than their mechanical counterparts.
The classic slot games have different symbols and easy-to-understand rules, so players win when they get three of the same symbols. In rare instances, 3-reel slots have bonus rounds and even wild and scatter symbols.
Video Slots
Video slots were made in 1970 and are also called 5-reel slots. They don't have levers, so players had to press a button to start a round. Video slots have very appealing graphics, sounds, and videos that draw in all types of players. They were made by software designers to improve players' gambling experience. Five-reel slots may be the real forerunner of online slots we see today.
The maximum value that can be wagered on a single prize line in a video slot varies, which is why video slots quickly gained massive popularity. The advantage of having more paylines than three-reel slots means you have a better chance of winning. In addition, they also have bigger jackpots. One final thing that separates five-reel slots is the free-spin mode, which can include bet multipliers.
Progressive Jackpot Slots
All well-established online casinos have to offer this slot type considering these slots have a large progressive jackpot that keeps getting bigger over time. How do slots progressive jackpots work? A small amount of each player's bet goes into the pot, and when the prize is won, the jackpot starts to grow again from a fixed sum — the seed.
We can classify three sub-categories:
Standalones — People who like to gamble should know that standalone progressive jackpots are not linked to other slots. They are only linked to one game, meaning that the jackpot will only grow as long as people keep playing that particular slot.
Linked — Linked jackpots, on the other hand, are made up of prizes from more than one game. However, note that these games might not always be in the same casino. Sometimes, they might be spread out across different casinos that the same company runs.
Wide-area ones — Wide-area progressive jackpots are the most appealing because they grow to huge amounts in almost no time. Fans of slot games can find slots that have what is called flat jackpots, and as you might expect from the name, prizes in these games never go up.
All progressive slots have a jackpot meter that lets players see how much money has been added up at any given time, which can be very helpful because players can enter the games at best possible time.
Before you land on progressive slots, you should keep in mind that you have to spin with the maximum value to be eligible for the biggest prize. If you make the maximum bet and get the winning combination that sets off the jackpot, you'll get a much smaller payout. These slots have fewer regular wins, so the chance of someone winning the big prize isn't too high.
Slot Elements
In this part, I’ll provide an explanation of the elements of slot games.
Reels
To fully understand the game differences, you must familiarize yourself with the lingo. The reel is slang for a horizontal column, the most significant part of slot machines. Note that one reel can only display each symbol once during a spin. Upon landing on the screen, you'll know if your combination is a winner.
Most modern slot machines have five reels. However, the developers are constantly innovating complex new complex and sophisticated games. This resulted in slot machines with some fascinating visuals and 3- reel slots with two grids, but regardless of the number of reels, their function doesn't change.
Paylines
A payline is a combination of winning symbols. It's possible for winning symbols to align in any of these directions — vertical, horizontal, diagonal, or even in a zigzag pattern. Slot machines have progressed to the point where they can have a random number of paylines. In addition, players can bet on the maximum number of said paylines.
Rows
The rows, in conjunction with the reels, constitute the playing grid, the surface upon which the symbols are placed. The number of rows grew, just as it did for the reels and paylines. Also, the way rows and reels are tallied in dimensions is the only factor that differentiates them from one another.
Symbols
Even with the ever-increasing advancements made in the slot's universe, the symbols used are considered classic, so even the newest slots carry the most popular symbol types. When these icons align properly, players get their winnings.
Payout Table
A payout table or pay table is a helpful guide that tells you how much you can win and how to use special features, paylines, betting requirements, and jackpots, if there are any. The length of the table depends on how complicated a slot machine is.
Not all slots make it clear, but most include the expected return to the player (RTP) percentage in the pay table. When you look at the percentage, you can decide if this machine is more for people who just want to play for fun or if it's better for people who like to take more risks and wait longer to win bigger prizes.
Symbols on Slot Machines
Now that you know more about slot elements, let's talk about symbols you can see in various slot games.
Wild Symbols
Wild symbols can complete paylines that wouldn't have won without them because they can stand in for any other symbol, but wilds can't substitute for other bonus symbols. As a result, a wild symbol may not have any monetary value in some slot machines, while in others, it may be the most valuable icon.
Wild symbols generate excitement in players anytime those symbols appear randomly. In certain games, though, they show up just on specific reels, like the middle three of a five-reel slot machine.
Scatter Symbols
In online slot games, a scatter symbol is a distinctive symbol that can have various purposes depending on the game you're playing. For example, they:
could activate a variety of extra games or features
may serve as multipliers
can stand in for different symbols to assist players in completing winning combinations
Multiplier Symbols
Multipliers are special components that can increase your payout by a fixed amount. Some multipliers only activate during free spins or bonus rounds, while others appear randomly and rarely during regular play. Some icons increase your wins, while others add to line or total bets.
Sticky Symbols
Sticky symbols play a significant role in making slot games more fun to play. Namely, they are a type of wild symbol and are as common as wilds. If you come across a slot game with a symbol that stays on the reels for up to eight seconds, triggering other symbols as a catalyst for wins, that’s a sticky symbol.
Bonus Symbols
Slot machines typically use bonus symbols to initiate a bonus game, which are distinct from scatter symbols. The difference is that to activate the bonus game, you need a predetermined number of these special symbols to appear in specific positions on the reels. Usually, you need at least three bonus symbols to trigger a bonus game, and spins must be on active paylines.
Stacked Symbols
In essence, a stacked wild is a wild symbol that can expand to fill an entire reel. In most cases, you'll see them clustered in groups of two, three, four, or five icons. Keep in mind that you'll see stacked wilds on every reel when playing certain slot machines, while in others, they only appear on specific reels.
Many video slots that offer stacked wilds on every reel tend to have high volatility in their play. However, when combined with multipliers, stacked wilds in the free spins bonus feature can boost the chances of winning big.
Strategies for Slot Machines
Now that you know the terminology and general rules, you're probably thinking about how to play slot machines? Are there any strategies involved? How to play pokies and maximize your winnings?
The Multiplier
Multiplier slots are video slots in which your winnings from a single spin are increased by a factor of two, three, four, or more. There are machines where the multiplier can go into the double digits, while some bet multipliers raise the line bet rather than the overall bet, so keep that in mind and read the pay table rules.
It's always advisable to research, find the best multiplier slots, and play to win on slot machines. In my opinion, these are the leading megaways slot machines:
Bonanza Megaways by Big Time Gaming
Gonzo’s Quest by NetEnt
Valley of the Gods by Yggdrasil
Pirate Kingdom Megaways by Iron Dog Studio
Peggy Riches Megaways by Red Tiger
The Buy-a-Pay
Each coin played on a buy-a-pay slot machine grants access to a smaller chunk of the game's payout schedule. Some slots have three pay lines across the reels, with the center reel being the only place to win on a single-coin wager, the top line will be added if two coins are placed, and the bottom line will be added if three coins are placed.
Do not play the game if you're not willing to bet the maximum amount required to unlock all symbols in a buy-a-pay. You lose if the three jackpot symbols line up and you haven't wagered enough. The only way to play a buy-a-pay is to wager the maximum amount allowed.
The Progressive
You should always play at the maximum bet to have any hope of taking home the grand prize.
Avoiding the progressive slots in which the jackpot is now at a low level is a strategy that makes sense. If you're going to spend money trying to win the jackpot, you might as well do it when the prize has the potential to transform your life completely.
The odds of hitting the jackpot are extremely low as some progressive slot machines appear to have a better record of paying out jackpots. To tell you the truth, that's because many individuals play them. Lastly, if you're able to locate them, play the standalones because these games have smaller jackpots that are won more frequently.
How to win jackpots on slot machines? The best strategy is to do your research. These are leading progressive slot machines:
Mega Moolah by Microgaming
Gladiator by Playtech
Mega Fortune by NetEnt
Lightning Link by Aristocrat
Tips for Playing Slots
Whether you play in brick-and-mortar or online casino, there are some things you should know in order to play wisely and safely. In the following sections, I’ll provide a few tips.
Manage Your Money
A crucial part of playing slots is effective money management, just like on quarter machines. For example, on a slot machine, a player can easily perform 800 pulls in an hour, so let's say one pull requires two quarters, which means that a player wagered $400.
You can divide your funds meant for slots into smaller parts, for example, $20-$30 for every half an hour on a slot machine to avoid spending all the money quickly or on the same machine.
Play within your means, and don't be afraid to cut your stakes or bail out if you reach the limit point. The fact is that you will lose money on a slot machine session, more often than not.
Start with Little Bets
It's common for gamers to believe that the winnings wouldn't occur immediately. So you should begin with little bets and work your way up, hoping to wager large when the winnings roll in, commonly known as “Prime the Pump.” When it comes to winning, you're more likely to win in the early stages than in the latter stages. So, if you wager the same amount on every spin, the payback percentage will remain the same.
Try Your Luck at Slot Tournaments
A slot tournament is a competition between many people playing the same casino slot game over a given time period. In tournaments, players accumulate points by wagering on a particular slot machine, and the winner is the competitor who finishes with the most points.
A single day may be the limit for some contests, while others may go on for several months. It's essential to remember that different casinos have different restrictions, such as spinning at least once per day throughout the event or playing the minimum number of spins over the course of the competition. Who knows, maybe you’ll have a lucky day and obtain some prizes.
Use a Casino Bonus
Online casinos usually provide sign-up promotions, so you can play through the casino bonus before withdrawing. You can use the bonus money to play games or test new games before spending your money. Don't bet more for prizes or exceed your bankroll. Play comfortably, then profit.
Check Out New Slot Games
It goes without saying that casinos put a lot of thought into picking slot games that will last a long time, but at the same time, they want to see a return on their investment as soon as possible. Consequently, casinos can occasionally enhance the payback rate on new slot machines or give special incentives that can be used on them. This is a terrific technique for players to potentially enhance their payout odds and helps the casino advertise the new games.
Conclusion
At the beginning of this guide, I pointed out some historical points that I found important. Then, I explain what types of slots you should look for, what each element of a slot game does, and tips on how to play slot machines at land-based casinos. Moreover, I provided information about various slot types so you can potentially win more money. Lastly, if you're interested in playing slot, you can check how slot tournaments work and, perhaps, participate in one and win real money.
If you enjoy playing poker and are looking for a new challenge, you should try Hi-Lo Omaha. This game is similar to Texas Hold'em, but with an exciting twist. You need to understand the rules, best Hi-Lo strategies, and betting structure to learn how to play Hi-Lo Omaha. Let's dive into this article to learn more.
What Is Hi-Lo Omaha?
If you're familiar with pot-limit Omaha or "Omaha high," you're on the right track to learning Omaha Hi-Lo. In Omaha Hi-Lo Poker, players compete for the high and low halves of the pot, as the name implies. In addition to being played with fixed-limit betting, Omaha Hi-Lo is frequently incorporated into "mixed game" formats, such as the popular 8-game mix Poker.
The game is sometimes referred to as "Omaha 8" or "Omaha Hi-Lo 8 or better." There are also pot-limit and no-limit variations, which are both popular either as tournaments or cash games.
High Low Omaha Rules
According to traditional hand rankings, the "high" hand in Omaha Hi-Lo follows the same rules as in hold'em or Omaha high games like PLO. If you're new to split-pot games or Hi-Lo Poker, the "low" hand requires a little more explanation.
If you have a high hand, regardless of the cards you use, you can also make a low hand. For example, when building your five-card Poker hand, you can use two cards from your four-card hand plus three community cards.
For Omaha Hi-Lo, all cards that make up a low hand must be ranked eight or lower according to the rules. This is the origin of the phrase "split-8-or-better," usually added to the game's name.
Five unpaired cards ranked eight or lower constitute a low qualifying hand. In a low hand, an ace is considered the lowest card, while it can also serve as the highest card in a high hand.
In Omaha Hi-Lo, it doesn't matter if you have a straight or flush with your five lowest cards (if they are all ranked 8 or lower), you still have a low hand. Omaha Hi Lo differs from other "lowball" games because flushes and straights don't raise your low hand.
Thus, the lowest possible Omaha Hi-Lo hand would be 5-4-3-2-A, the best "low hand." The next lowest possible hand would be 6-4-3-2-A. In Omaha Hi-Lo, 8-7-6-5-4 is the worst low hand.
To determine which low hand is the best, every player needs to consider each hand in terms of its five-digit number, and the hand with the lowest number is the best (or lowest). Therefore, 5-4-3-2-A is better than 6-4-3-2-A, and 6-4-3-2-A is better than 6-5-3-2-A.
How to Play Omaha Hi-Lo
A 52-card deck is used in Omaha Hi-Lo Poker, also known as Omaha 8-or-better. Initially, each player receives four cards, and then the dealer puts five face-up cards on the table.
After that, players must make both a high hand and a low hand by selecting cards from their hand and the community cards. Two cards from each player's hand and three from the community must be included in both hands. Winners are determined by having both the highest and the lowest hands.
Hi-Lo Omaha Strategy
It can be challenging for new players to rethink some of the fundamentals they've learned while playing Texas Hold'em. In Omaha Poker, high card combinations such as A-K and A-Q do not have the same power to dominate a hand as in Hold'em.
A single big pair is unlikely to still be ahead by the river because more card combinations are available; a straight, flush, or any other draw is more likely. We recommend following a few basic play rules when it comes to Omaha Hi-Lo strategy:
On the flop, you should be able to make several different hands (or draws) based on your four-hole cards.
As middle cards are less useful than high or low cards, your hand should have three very strong cards to go with it (i.e., 7, 8, 9, T).
Keep position in mind, and relax your starting hand requirements if no one has shown strength.
When calculating your pot odds, make the appropriate adjustments if you're only drawing to half the pot.
Keeping your hand too close to the table can lead to you being easily outdrawn if you flop the nuts.
Tips for Playing High-Low Poker
It can’t be very clear to play Omaha Hi Lo Eight or Better. In Omaha Poker, there are more than 16,000 possible starting hand combinations instead of 169 in Holdem. However, following these ten tips, you should not have any problems to play.
Ace-Deuce
As far as Omaha Hi-Lo is concerned, the only hands that are strong enough to survive in this game are those that contain two Aces and a Deuce. In Poker, hands with these two cards are considered the highest-rated combos in the game. Therefore, an Ace-Deuce and two random cards in a full game will yield a higher profit than two Aces and two random cards. Playing Ace-Deuce preflop in a loose game is also almost always possible. However, some Ace-Ace hands do not perform as well as Ace-Deuce hands.
The More Help, the Better
Undoubtedly, the more closely connected your cards are, the better your chances of winning. Unfortunately, your opponents also have a lot of cards. If you want to survive through the river, you may need them.
Have a Backup for Your Low
Compared to the dry Ace-Deuce, the Ace-Deuce-Three is far superior. A counterfeited card on the board is likely to lose the hand unless you have another low card. In the case of the flop being 874 and you holding the A2, you have 8742A for the nut low. A seven might be made by someone else, but 8742A may be the lowest of all possible lows if another Ace or Deuce falls. Your opponent would now have 7432A for the low nut if you were dealt a deuce on the turn. On the market, counterfeit items aren't uncommon. Each time a player flops the nut low with six outs, they have a 24% chance of being counterfeited.
Have Backup for Your High
You can expect your flopped nuts to be in roughly 114th place by the river, just like the low. Omaha HiLo Poker is a game where you need the nuts with redraws to survive. With the flop being 7s 8sTc and the 9JQA with no spades, you're probably in a lot of trouble despite having the nut high. You are in third place if you get a low draw, a flush draw, and a couple of random hands against you. There is also a possibility that someone else might have the same nut straight as you but with redraws to go along with it if there is a lot of action on the flop. If that's the case, you're somewhere between a two to one and three-to-one dog. Don't forget that you flopped the nuts!
Protect Your Hand
With this, a player is only able to play live Poker. There is a common occurrence where half of the players seated at the table hold their hands away from their bodies so they can check their cards throughout the course of the hand while they are seated at the table. Due to this, all their neighbors are always able to see what they are holding at all times. The more people don't know what you have, the harder it is for you to win a game of Poker when no one knows what you have. When they have a look at your hand, the chances of you making a profit are slim, as well.
Conclusion
There are not many difficulties in learning Omaha Hi-Lo, especially if you already know how to play pot-limit Omaha. However, despite the fact that the Hi-Lo Omaha strategy can seem complicated, there is a great deal of importance placed on knowing what strong starting hands are, for example, hands containing an Ace with at least 1 or 2 low cards, and especially a deuce, so that you do not make the mistake of fighting only for the high or low cards.
FAQ
How do you win high low in Omaha?
To win High Low in Omaha, you need to make the best high hand and the best low hand. The best high hand is the standard Poker hand using two hole cards and three community cards, while the best low hand must have five cards of different ranks with a maximum of eight.
What are the best starting hands for Omaha Hi-Lo?
The best starting hands in Omaha Hi-Lo include hands that can potentially make both strong high and low hands. Examples include A-A-2-3, A-2-3-4, A-A-5-6, A-2-5-6, and 2-3-4-5. Four low cards and two high cards or four high cards and two low cards are generally weak starting hands.
What is the difference between Omaha and Omaha Hi-Lo Poker?
The difference is that in Omaha Hi-Lo, the pot is split between the best high hand and the best low hand. In Omaha, only the best high hand wins the pot. Learning this distinction is the key to learning how to play Omaha Hi-Lo.
How do you play 5 card Omaha Hi-Lo?
In 5-Card Omaha Hi-Lo, each player is dealt five hole cards, and the rules are similar to regular Omaha Hi-Lo. Players must use two of their hole cards and three community cards to make the best high hand and the best low hand.