Essential Terminology for New Pokies Players
If you're new to playing pokies, either at your local casino or online, the number of new terms can feel a little overwhelming at first. Don’t worry—it’s easier than it seems, and once you get used to a few key words, everything will start making more sense. This quick guide will go over some of the essential terms you might come across, especially if you're trying out the best online pokies.Reels and Symbols
Reels are the vertical spinning columns you see in every pokie game. Most games have three or five reels, each with symbols like fruit, numbers, or themed icons. When you press spin, the reels turn and land on a combination of symbols.
Paylines
A payline is the line where matching symbols need to land for you to win. Some pokies have just one payline, while others have dozens—or even hundreds. More paylines often mean more chances to win, but they may also cost more to play per spin.
Wilds and Scatters
Wild symbols can take the place of other symbols to help make a winning line. Think of them as a kind of “joker” that fills in for missing symbols. Scatter symbols are different—they don’t have to land on a specific line. Get enough of them anywhere on the reels, and you could trigger free spins or a bonus feature.
Bonus Rounds
Many pokies have bonus features, like free spins or mini-games. You’ll usually start one by getting a certain number of bonus or scatter symbols. Bonus rounds give you chances to win more without spending more on spins.
Return to Player (RTP)
RTP is a measure of how much money a pokie is likely to pay back over time. It’s shown as a percentage. For example, a game with a 95% RTP will, on average, pay back $95 for every $100 bet. Keep in mind this is a long-term average—it doesn’t mean you’ll win exactly that much every time.
Volatility
Volatility tells you how often and how big the wins might be. Low volatility pokies pay out smaller wins more often, while high volatility games tend to give bigger wins, but less often. Choose what fits your playing style.
Now that you know these terms, playing pokies should be a lot less confusing. Enjoy your spins, and remember to play for fun!