What are the multipliers on slot machines​?

What are the multipliers on slot machines​?

Published Date · Feb. 6, 2025 · Last Updated · Feb. 6, 2025 ·Read Time · 5 mins

Multipliers on slot machines

Slot machines have always fascinated players with their animations, attractive graphics, and especially their lucrative features. Among these, multipliers have become one of the most exciting elements. These mechanisms can significantly increase winnings, sometimes reaching impressive amounts.

But how exactly do they work? Which games make the best use of them? And most importantly, is there a strategy to make the most of them?


In this article, we will explore this feature in detail, providing you with all the keys to understanding their mechanisms.

Understanding Slot Machines with Multipliers

What Is a Multiplier in a Slot Machine?

A multiplier is a game function that increases a player's winnings by applying a multiplication factor to winning combinations.

For example:

  • A x5 multiplier multiplies the win by five: if a winning combination pays €10 and a x5 multiplier is active, the final win will be €50.

The functioning of multipliers is based on specific rules unique to each machine. Some are integrated into the game’s symbols, others are activated during free spins, and some can even chain together, leading to exponential gains or increase progressively as the player keeps winning.

Algorithms and Random Number Generation (RNG)

The activation of multipliers relies on the Random Number Generator (RNG), an algorithm that ensures the unpredictability of each spin. This system guarantees that the appearance of a multiplier is completely random, preventing any manipulation or prediction.

In other words, even if a player wins several times in a row with a x2 multiplier, there is no guarantee that a higher multiplier will appear in the following spins.

The Different Types of Multipliers in Slot Machines

Multipliers can take several forms :

Classic Multipliers

The most basic ones apply directly to the winnings and can be fixed (x2, x3, x5) or variable depending on symbol combinations:

  • They apply directly to the winnings obtained in a standard spin.
  • Example: A player wins €20 with a winning combination, and a x3 multiplier transforms this win into €60.

Multipliers in Free Spins

Others, like those integrated into free spins, are often higher and allow for massive wins.

  • Common in games offering Free Spins.
  • Example: During the Free Spins of Dead or Alive 2, winnings can be multiplied by x2, x3, or x5.

Progressive Multipliers

Games with progressive multipliers offer an even more intense experience. The more the player chains wins, the higher the multiplier climbs, leading to increasingly large payouts.

  • These multipliers increase with each successive win.
  • Example: Gonzo’s Quest starts with a x1 multiplier, but chaining multiple wins can push it up to x15.

Random Multipliers

Some games offer random multipliers, which appear without any particular condition. This type of multiplier adds an extra surprise element, making each spin potentially explosive.

  • They appear without a specific condition.
  • Example: Razor Shark offers a mystery multiplier that can reach up to x2500.

Multipliers in Bonus Mini-Games

Finally, some games feature mini-games that overlay the main game and allow players to win multipliers.

  • Some games trigger "Wheel of Fortune" style bonuses or other mini-games where players can win multipliers.
  • Example: Wheel of Fortune Megaways has a bonus wheel where players can win a x10 multiplier or more.

Comparison of Slot Developers with Multipliers

Several game developers have designed slot machines that integrate powerful multipliers.

  • NetEnt is known for its progressive multipliers and Avalanche mechanics.
  • Big Time Gaming revolutionized the market with its Megaways technology, allowing thousands of paylines and unlimited multipliers.
  • Play’n GO and Pragmatic Play focus on more accessible games, with well-designed bonuses and generous multipliers, where the multipliers progressively increase as the player accumulates energy charges.

Examples of Popular Slot Machines with Multipliers

If you are looking to play slot machines that incorporate interesting multipliers, here are some must-try titles:

  • Gonzo’s Quest (NetEnt): One of the first games to introduce Avalanche multipliers, which increase after each consecutive win.
  • Bonanza Megaways (Big Time Gaming): With its unlimited multipliers during free spins, this game is a benchmark for explosive winnings.
  • Razor Shark (Push Gaming): Its bonus mode can generate massive multipliers, making each spin potentially huge in terms of winnings.
  • Dead or Alive (NetEnt): A highly volatile slot machine where x2, x3, and x5 multipliers can stack together for spectacular winnings.

Volatility and Multipliers: Why Are These Machines Risky?

Slot machines with multipliers are often highly volatile, meaning that winnings can be irregular. The higher the potential multiplier (x100, x500, even x1000), the longer the periods without winnings can be before hitting a big jackpot.

  • For example, in Bonanza Megaways, each winning cascade increases the multiplier. A player betting €1 and reaching a x15 multiplier on an initial €50 win will receive €750, but this type of win remains rare.

The Importance of RTP in Machines with Multipliers

The Return to Player (RTP), often around 96%-99%, indicates how much a machine pays back on average. However, in games with multipliers, a large portion of this RTP is allocated to exceptional winnings, making smaller wins less frequent.

How to Find the Right Balance Between RTP, Volatility, and Multipliers?

To maximize your chances, it is best to choose a machine with a high RTP (>96%), progressive multipliers rather than extreme ones, and a volatility level suited to your budget. This provides a good compromise between win frequency and the potential for big multipliers.

Strategies to Maximize Winnings on Slot Machines with Multipliers

Understanding the Rules and RTP

A key point: prioritize machines with a high RTP. A high RTP slightly increases the chances of winning over the long term, even though variance remains high.

  • Example: Gonzo’s Quest and Bonanza Megaways have an RTP of 96% and attractive multipliers.

Adapting Bankroll Management

While multipliers offer high winning potential, they are also often associated with high volatility. It is therefore essential to adopt rigorous bankroll management. Instead of betting big from the start, it is recommended to begin with moderate bets to wait for the activation of free spins or progressive multipliers.

  • Do not bet too big too quickly on a volatile machine.
  • Example: Bet 1% of your total bankroll per spin.

Maximizing Free Spins and Bonuses

Casino bonuses can also be an excellent way to play these machines without risking your own money. Some online casinos offer free spins on games with multipliers, which can be an ideal opportunity to test these features without an initial bet.

  • Look for casinos offering free spins on games with high multipliers.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Slot Machines with Multipliers

Advantages

  • Significant increase in potential winnings.
  • More exciting gameplay thanks to dynamic multipliers.
  • Higher jackpot potential with progressive multipliers.

Disadvantages

  • Machines are often more volatile, leading to longer losing streaks.
  • Multipliers are attractive but sometimes difficult to activate.
  • Some games may require higher bets to unlock the best multipliers.

Conclusion

Slot machines with multipliers offer great winning potential and make the game more exciting. However, they are also more volatile and require good bankroll management.
If you want to try these machines, prioritize games with an RTP above 96% and progressive multipliers. Always play responsibly and use bonuses to maximize your chances! 🎰🔥

FAQ:

  • How do multipliers work on a slot machine? A multiplier applies an additional gain factor (x2, x5, x10, etc.).
  • Are slot machines with multipliers more volatile? Yes, they offer big wins but at a lower frequency.
  • What are the best games with multipliers? Gonzo’s Quest, Bonanza Megaways, Razor Shark.
  • Can you predict when a multiplier will activate? No, the machines use an RNG (random number generator).

Author

Greg Gomes

Gambling Consultant