This article will explain and inform the reader about the common pokie machine myths and offer a brief overview of online pokies.
We shall also explain why each myth is false to help your understanding of pokie machines, how they work, and the importance of responsible gambling when knowing the facts about any pokie machine you might play in the future.
Table of Contents
A Brief Overview of Pokies
The latest reports tell us that around 80% of New Zealanders enjoy a bet in one way or another, and it’s the job of the Department of Internal Affairs to regulate gambling there.
Undoubtedly, pokie machines and online pokies are the favourites among New Zealanders, with developers competing to develop new, innovative games.
Today pokies and online casinos provide outstanding graphics and animations to enhance time spent online. Both land-based machines and online pokie machines offer exceptional prize pots, some of which can be life-changing.
For instance, a progressive jackpot pokie machine can pay out amazing jackpots because a little of each bet wagered is added to the prize pool. Considering that most online casinos are open 24/7 worldwide and games are linked, it soon becomes apparent how quickly the progressive jackpot will grow.
Ever Wondered Why Pokies Are Called Pokies?
When land-based slot machines became popular in New Zealand and Australia, a slot machine was often housed next to a video poker machine. Someone, one day, must have abbreviated all the game’s names to ‘pokies’, and it stuck.
Understanding Pokie Machines
Behind all pokie games, online or off, is a Random Number Generator (RNG).
The RNG is the software that determines the outcome of games. It spins the virtual reels and wheels, rolls the virtual dice, and deals with the virtual hands of cards. In all cases, the RNG is independently audited regularly to ensure all games are true and fair and everyone has an equal chance of a win.
The RNG constantly generates numbers 24/7, even when no one is playing. The RNG has one function only, and that is to generate random numbers.
Although most players recognise the RNG, some may not fully understand how the computer algorithm works, and this can give rise to some of the more common pokie machine myths.
- Whether you are playing on land-based machines or online pokies, neither go through any type of cycle. No one pokie machine will have a time that it is ‘due’ to payout. This rule applies to video pokies, progressive jackpot games, and classic pokie machines.
- You cannot change or predict what will be displayed, as you cannot influence a microprocessor. Previous spins do not have any influence on an RNG outcome.
More Common Myths About Pokie Machines
The more popular something becomes, the more myths surround it. In this case, the ‘it’ is pokie games.
Below are some more common pokie machine myths you may have heard.
- Myth – Pokie games that have recently paid out a jackpot prize will not payout another one for a while.
Fact – Because an RNG determines every pokie machine and online pokies outcome, the chances of winning are unrelated to previous spins. Whether you have a win is all down to luck.
- Myth – When playing pokies online, you have less chance of winning than at a land-based casino.
Fact – Both online poke machines and land-based ones use an RNG and have an attached RTP (return to player percentage). You have the same chance of winning online or off.
- Myth – If you use the automatic play features of an off or online pokie, you will be paid less.
Fact – All payouts from pokie machines are not determined by how you operate them. How you spin the reels has nothing to do with the payout and is one of the many machine myths surrounding pokie games.
- Myth – Using the ‘Max’ Bet button will improve your chances of winning.
Fact – The ‘Max’ button is required when playing a progressive jackpot game if you are playing for the big jackpot. However, using it all the time will quickly exhaust your bankroll.
- Some online casinos ‘fix’ online pokes in favour of the house.
Fact – All pokies machines have a ‘house edge’. However, this does not mean they are ‘fixed’. Reputable online casinos must adhere to the rules and regulations set out by the Governing Body regulating gambling for any particular jurisdiction.
- Myth – A gambling site (including online casinos) can change or manipulate the payout rate.
Fact – The developer sets the payout percentage when developing the pokie machine. However, some developers now offer more than one payout rate option, so check to see if the payout rate is worthwhile at the site you are playing at.
Other statements that are just a myth include – If you bet higher, your chances of winning are higher. Again this is easily debunked as casinos online and off use an RNG that doesn’t care how much you bet.
Neither does the time of day you play affect your chances when playing online pokies. Remember that most online casinos are open 24/7 and that the RNG that determines the outcome of your games runs constantly.
The RNG does not register when you are playing or how much you bet.
The Impact of Myths on Player Behaviour
Unfortunately, some players believe in pokie machine myths, which can lead to problem gambling.
Managing your bankroll is vital, as is remembering that online pokie machines or any pokie machine should be played primarily for its entertainment value.
- Only spend as much as you can afford to lose.
- Set a budget for a day, a week or a month and stick to it.
- Take regular breaks.
- Never chase your losses.
- Know when to walk away.
If you spend more time than you expected playing offline or online pokie machines, you can get help from several sources.
Besides self-regulating by setting your loss and win limits with your chosen online casino, players in New Zealand can contact Tui Ora.
Conclusion
Knowing when something is a fact or just a myth is important when those myths can affect how much money you will spend.
Understanding what an RNG is and how the volatility and return to player percentage are set makes playing easier.
Knowing that you cannot determine the outcome of any online pokie machine, it will be easier to enjoy what they were developed for entertainment.
Of course, there is always that chance it will be your lucky day; after all, someone has to win!
