Dear Mark,
KISS, keep it simple stupid. That's how I gamble by playing only slot machines.
Can you share some simple tips on the easiest game to play, slots? Sherry,
Buffalo, NY
Sherry, you're right, no great mystery here. Slots are the easiest game
to play in the casino. Insert a coin, pull the handle, then reach into your
purse for more money. Unfortunately, that's what normally happens when the
house has such an enormous built-in edge. But that doesn't mean you can't
at least close the gap against you and throw in some fun to boot. So, Sherry,
below are some of my favorite slot tips to help you overcome this huge house
advantage. These tips won't guarantee that you'll become an instant winner,
because it's tough to beat a house edge that generally runs well over 10
percent, but it also doesn't have to be so tough on your bankroll. Let's
get started.
1. The only true skill to playing slots is machine identification. Example:
progressive machines offer the opportunity to compare and shop around for
the best value. One 25 cent "slot machine carousel" can have a
progressive jackpot of $2600 and another bank of machines-exactly the same
and standing side by side-$1900. You should always be looking for the best
slot opportunities possible.
2. Casinos will advertise machines that have a 98.5 percent payback. WOW!
A casino game holding just a percent and a half, and on a slot machine no
less. But there's a downside. If you look closely at the advertisement,
it will probably say, "on select machines." Furthermore, it probably
won't be posted on the machine itself, and generally will be limited to
a single bank of machines in the casino. Now it becomes your responsibility
to find them. Easiest way; Ask a slot employee, and if he or she doesn't
know, have one of them ask a direct supervisor.
3. Las Vegas gives away over one-half billion dollars in comps each year,
and as a slot player, you deserve your share. Repeat, you deserve your share.
How? Casinos now offer you the ability to "comp yourself" by using
one of their player's club slot cards. It's generally based on the number
of coins you cycle through a machine, so you might as well get credit for
all those quarters you're inserting. Shop casinos for comp value and find
out what you're worth to them.
4. You always want to treat "comps" as a form of profit, but you
never want to gamble just to receive them. It's much better to play a 98
percent payback machine and increase your winning opportunities than play
machines with a poor return that cycle more of your coins. Remember, you're
there to stay in action and possibly win, not lose your bankroll for a free
buffet.
5. If you can't afford to play the maximum amount of coins, you shouldn't
be playing that denomination of machine. If dollar slots are too rich for
your blood, drop down to a quarter machine. It's always better value to
play five quarters versus one dollar, or five nickels instead of one quarter.
6. I recommend not playing back the credits you've accumulated. Cash out
and take stock. The problem with playing back credits is that the longer
you stay, the machines built-in advantage eats away at them. It doesn't
take long to zero out.
7. Avoid restaurant, bar, supermarket and airport slot machines. Notorious
for being tight.
8. Can't decide which type of slot machine to play? If you're going to choose
between video poker and slots, play video poker. Even poor play on a video
poker machine will have a better payback than most "reel" slot
machines.
Before I Shuffle: What favorite words do casino owners love to hear
from their patrons. "I'll be back!" For different reasons, so
will I, since I still have a dozen more tips but I ran out of space. Please
visit this column next week for Part 2 of Simplified Slots.
Got a question about gambling? Write to: Deal Me In, 774 Mays Blvd.
Suite 10, Incline Village, NV 89451 or e-mail:winners@winner.com
· To order Mark Pilarski's "Hooked on Winning" audio cassettes--laminated
win cards package ($12.95 plus $2. S&H) call (800) WINNERS.
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