What Is a Progressive Jackpot Slot?
A progressive jackpot slot is a type of casino slot machine game where the jackpot prize increases each time the game is played but not won. A small percentage of each player’s bet is added to a central jackpot pool, which grows until a fortunate player wins the entire amount.
The jackpot prize in a progressive slot can be linked to one machine or a network of machines. When a player hits the winning combination, they win the entire jackpot prize, which can be worth millions of dollars.
Once the jackpot is claimed, the prize pool resets to a predetermined amount (known as the advertised or minimum jackpot value) and the cycle starts anew, building up to another potentially life-changing jackpot for the next winner.
Progressive jackpot slots can be found in both land-based casinos and online casinos, and they are popular because they offer players the chance to win life-changing amounts of money with just one spin.
Best Progressive Jackpot Online Slots – List of Top 10 Games
Mega Moolah by Microgaming
Mega Moolah is an iconic online slot game developed by Microgaming that features a jungle safari theme and offers a massive progressive jackpot. It comes with 5 reels and 25 paylines, and players can bet between $0.25 and $6.25 per spin.
Symbols include animals like lions, giraffes, and elephants, along with playing cards. The game offers Free Spins and Bonus features, and the lion symbol acts as a Wild that doubles the win when it appears in a winning combination.
Mega Moolah also features 4 progressive jackpots, including the Mega, Major, Minor, and Mini. The slot’s RTP is 88.12%, but when accounting for the progressive jackpots, the RTP increases to 96%.
This game has high volatility, providing players with the chance to win significant sums. While the graphics are a bit dated, the game’s immersive sounds and theme make it an enjoyable experience.
Hall of Gods by NetEnt
Hall of Gods is a progressive slot game by NetEnt, based on Norse mythology. The game has 5 reels, 3 rows, and 20 paylines, and players can bet between $0.20 and $50 per spin. It offers 3 jackpots – 2 local ones and 1 pooled jackpot, which are increased by a percentage of every wager.
The slot’s theme is reflected in its symbols, including sailboats, sea monsters, Thor’s hammer, and Norse deities such as Idun, Loki, Odin, Thor, and Freya. It has several exciting features, including expanding Wilds, Free Spins, and Bonus games triggered by Thor’s hammer and Odin’s Ravens.
NetEnt’s Hall of Gods offers an RTP is 95.3%, and it has low to medium volatility. Overall, this slot offers players a captivating experience with the potential for huge jackpot wins, as well as smaller but decent amounts with its features and Bonuses.
While the graphics could have been improved, the game’s interesting theme and exciting gameplay make it a popular choice for fans of Norse mythology and progressive jackpot slots.
Mega Joker by NetEnt
NetEnt’s Mega Joker slot is a classic fruit-themed game with a retro arcade feel. It offers players a chance to win a continually growing progressive jackpot with its 5 pay lines, and it has an extremely high RTP of 99%.
The game features two modes, including a Supermeter mode that can payout large sums and a variety of symbols, including a unique Lucky 7’s symbol. However, the game does not offer Free Spins, multipliers, or a wide betting range, with bets ranging from $0.10 to $1.
The graphics are simple and vintage, with old-fashioned animations and low-quality graphics that add to the game’s nostalgic charm. The winning theme has a dynamic feel, with richer orchestration and dramatic use of monophonic effects.
NetEnt’s Mega Joker slot is a highly volatile game that can be risky for some players, but it offers hours of entertainment for both new and veteran casino players alike.
Caesar’s Empire by RTG
Caesar’s Empire is a historical-themed slot game by RTG that features classical imagery and music to evoke the power and glory of ancient Rome. With 5 reels and 20 pay lines, the game offers betting options between $0.01 and $100, with a maximum win of 7500x and an RTP of 95%.
The slot’s most important characters are Caesar and Cleopatra, who act as the highest-paying Wild symbols, with tripled payouts whenever they appear in winning combinations.
The Free Spins Bonus is activated with 1 or more Caesars and the Colosseum symbol on the fifth reel, rewarding players with 10 free games. The game’s progressive jackpot is awarded at the end of each spin, regardless of the wager.
RTG’s Caesar’s Empire comes with graphics and sound effects that evoke the opulence of Roman culture, making it a popular choice for players fascinated by the glory days of Ancient Rome.
While the theme may not be the most innovative, the game offers plenty of excitement, with high-paying jackpots and the possibility of substantial wins due to its high volatility.
Aztec’s Millions by RTG
Aztec’s Millions is a progressive jackpot slot game developed by Real Time Gaming (RTG) that has an Aztec theme. It is very similar to the Aztec’s Treasure slot game, but with a fixed 25 paylines.
Despite being released in 2009, the game still has a classic appeal and is enjoyed by many players. The game has simple gameplay with a betting per payline fixed at $0.20 and a maximum bet level of $5.
Its theme is reflected in its symbols and graphics, which include Aztec architecture, pyramids, and vegetation. The Aztec King symbol is the Wild symbol, while the Scatter symbol is the Aztec’s Millions logo, and a golden idol symbol triggers Free Spins.
This RTG game has an RTP of 95%, which is relatively low for a progressive jackpot slot, and high volatility. Players can win up to 5,000x their bet, but the primary motivation for playing is to win the lucrative jackpot.
Despite having dated graphics, the Aztec’s Millions slot game is still an interesting and enjoyable game to play with its fantastic Free Spins feature and standard gameplay.
Arabian Nights by NetEnt
The Arabian Nights slot by NetEnt is a progressive jackpot game with a medieval Arabian theme based on the 1001 Arabian Nights folk tales. The game has 5 reels and 10 paylines, and players can bet from $0.10 to $200 on all devices.
It has a low RTP of 95.22% and medium to high volatility. The game’s symbols include low-value game symbols such as K, Q, J, 10, and 9, as well as camels, Fez hats, tents, and slippers.
The sword symbol is the highest paying one, while the Aladdin symbol is the Wild and the Aladdin’s lamp is the Scatter symbol.
Landing 3 or more Scatter symbols will trigger the Free Spins feature, and the game’s central feature is the jackpot, which can be triggered by landing 5 Wild symbols on a payline.
Although the game has dated graphics and limited Bonus features, it remains popular due to the chance of winning enormous sums from the Free Spins feature, with a potential win of 12,000x your stake per spin.
Danger High Voltage Megapays by BTG
Danger High Voltage Megapays is a rock ‘n’ roll-themed progressive slot game by Big Time Gaming. It features 6 reels, 4 rows, and 4,096 ways to win, with a bet range of $0.20 to $40 per spin.
The game has great graphics and features the popular song by Electric Six. Its symbols include A, K, Q, J, 10, and 9 royals, as well as tacos, disco balls, and Day of the Dead skulls.
The Day of the Dead skull is the highest-paying symbol, while there are two types of Wilds that can multiply your winnings by 6x. Landing 3 or more My Desire Scatter symbols activates the Free Spin feature with a multiplier of up to 100x.
The slot has an RTP of 96.39% with high volatility, making it ideal for players seeking infrequent but significant wins. The Megapays feature can be triggered randomly on any base game spin, with 4 progressive jackpots available.
Overall, the Danger High Voltage Megapays slot offers a chance to win massive jackpots and has great graphics and features. However, its high volatility might not be suitable for some players, and its RTP is lower than some other slots.
Age of the Gods by Playtech
Age of the Gods is a jackpot slot game developed by Playtech, featuring 5 reels, 20 paylines, and a Greek mythology theme. It can be played on all devices with a minimum bet of $0.20 and a maximum of $100 per spin.
The game has a medium-high volatility level, with an RTP of 95.02%. The most rewarding symbol is the wreath Wild, which pays out 2.5x, 20x, 150x, or 500x your stake for 2, 3, 4, or 5 in combination, respectively.
This Playtech game has 6 Bonus features, including the Age of the Gods Bonus, where you can play 4 Free Spin features based on different gods. Each Free Spin feature comes with a multiplier that can be up to 5x, up to 5 Wilds on every Free Spin, Increasing Multipliers, or Expanding Wilds.
Additionally, there’s a Pantheon of Power on Reels feature, where all 5 gods line up to give you a cash prize. The game also includes 4 progressive jackpots, with the top prize being the Ultimate Power Jackpot.
The highest payout you can get from the game is 50,000x your stake per Free Spin if you activate the 5x multiplier in the Athena Free Games feature.
Detailed review coming soon
Major Millions by Microgaming
Major Millions is a 5-reel, 15-payline video slot game developed by Microgaming. With a military theme, the game features cartoonish symbols such as warships, bomber planes, cannons, ammunition, and a zany main character, Major Millions himself.
The slot’s Wild symbol is Major Millions himself, and when it is used in a winning combination, any wins that depend on the symbol will be tripled. It also features a Golden Shrapnel Scatter symbol, which can payout 3x, 10x, or 50x the total bet.
However, the only way to win the progressive jackpot is to get 5 Major Millions symbols on the 15th payline while betting the maximum amount of $3.
Despite its military theme, the game has a lot of humor and does not take itself too seriously. Major Millions is optimized for mobile devices and runs smoothly on smartphones and tablets.
Aladdin’s Lamp by Inbet Games
Aladdin’s Lamp is a video slot game developed by Inbet Games that is set in an Asian and Oriental theme. It has 9 paylines, low volatility, and a maximum payout of 5,000x your line bet.
The game features a fun Bonus round, Free Spins, and a Gamble feature that doubles your winnings if you are lucky. The Genie symbol acts as the Wild, substituting for all other symbols except for the Bonus and Aladdin Character symbols.
The Bonus game begins with the Dealer’s card being revealed, and you must choose one out of four face-down cards. If your card is higher than the Dealer’s card, you will double your winnings.
The slot’s low volatility means that players can expect to be regularly rewarded, but the RTP of 93.5% is on the lower side. Aladdin’s Lamp slot offers an exciting gameplay with vivid graphics, and players can start by choosing their desired bet level, which ranges between 1 and 900 credits.
This slot game is recommended for those who want to embark on an adventure into Arabian nights and enjoy a fun and straightforward slot game.
Why Are Slots With Progressive Jackpot So Popular?
Slots with progressive jackpots are incredibly popular among casino players for the following reasons:
Life-Changing Win with Just One Spin
The potential to win a life-changing amount of money with just one spin is undoubtedly a massive draw for casino players. The constantly growing jackpot prize is tantalizing and creates a sense of excitement and anticipation that traditional slot machines simply can’t match.
Next-Level Excitement
The thrill of chasing a progressive jackpot can keep players engaged for longer periods, leading to increased playtime and a more enjoyable gaming experience. The anticipation of hitting the big win keeps players coming back for more.
Aim For the Moon, Land Among The Stars
Many progressive jackpot slots offer multiple tiers of jackpots, giving players a chance to win smaller prizes even if they don’t hit the grand prize. This increases the odds of winning and provides more opportunities for players to cash in.
Sense of Community
The social aspect of progressive jackpot slots also adds to their popularity. As players contribute to the jackpot pool, they feel like they are part of a collective effort, and the excitement of seeing the prize grow adds to the overall sense of community and fun.
How Do Slots With a Progressive Jackpot Pay?
Winning a progressive jackpot can be a life-changing event for many players. However, it’s important to understand the payment process to ensure that you receive your winnings in a timely and secure manner.
While some jackpots are paid out in annual installments over a period of years, others such as Microgaming’s Mega Moolah jackpot are paid out in one lump sum. This means that if you are lucky enough to win one of these jackpots, you will receive your entire winnings in a single payment.
For smaller jackpot wins, you can expect to see your winnings credited to your casino account immediately. However, for record-breaking jackpots, you may need to wait a few days to receive your winnings.
The casino may choose to pay you via courier, bank transfer, or in person. In some cases, you may even be asked to pose holding a giant novelty check for the official announcement and celebrations.
Regardless of the payment method, it’s important to choose a reputable casino that is known for paying out jackpots in a timely and secure manner. By doing so, you can enjoy your winnings with peace of mind and without any unnecessary delays or complications.
How are the Odds of Winning Calculated for a Progressive Slot?
The odds of hitting the jackpot in a progressive slot game depend on the specific machine you play. To determine the same, you’ll need to consider several factors, including the number of reels and symbols on each reel, as well as the conditions required to trigger the jackpot.
Remember that even with the use of a random number generator, each slot machine has its own unique probability of paying out the big prize. By analyzing the number of reels and symbols on each, as well as the jackpot’s triggering mechanism, you can better understand your chances of winning.
So, before you spin the reels, take a moment to evaluate the machine’s characteristics and the likelihood of hitting that life-changing payout. With a little bit of knowledge and some luck, you could be on your way to winning big in the world of progressive slot machines.
Which Factors Should You Consider While Looking for Slot Machines With Progressive Jackpot?
If you’re looking to play slot machines with progressive jackpots, here are a few key things to keep in mind:
Jackpot Size
The size of the jackpot is the most obvious factor to consider when choosing a progressive slot machine. The larger the jackpot, the more appealing the machine will be to players. However, keep in mind that machines with larger jackpots may have lower odds of hitting the jackpot.
RTP
The RTP percentage is the average amount of money that a slot machine pays back to players over time. Look for machines with higher RTP percentages, as this indicates that the machine is more likely to pay out over the long term.
House Edge
The house edge is the amount of money that the casino keeps for itself on each bet placed on a slot machine. Mathematically, it is 100 – RTP. So, a casino with a lower house edge is theoretically more profitable.
Hit Frequency
The hit frequency refers to how often a slot machine will produce a winning combination. Look for machines with higher hit frequencies, as this indicates that you will win more frequently.
Volatility
Volatility refers to the level of risk involved in playing a slot machine. Low-volatility machines pay out smaller amounts more frequently, while high-volatility machines pay out larger amounts less frequently.
Betting Requirements
Some progressive slot machines require you to bet the maximum amount in order to be eligible for the progressive jackpot. Make sure to check the betting requirements before you start playing.
Number of Paylines
The number of paylines in slot games can greatly vary. Machines with more paylines typically offer more ways to win, but may also require larger bets.
Bonus Features
Look for machines with Bonus features, such as Free Spins or mini-games. These features can increase your chances of winning and add to the overall excitement of playing the machine.
Slot Theme, Graphics, and Soundtrack
It’s important to choose a progressive slot machine that you enjoy playing. Consider the game’s theme, graphics, and soundtrack to ensure that you’ll have a fun and engaging experience.
Game Provider and Reputation
Consider the game provider and the reputation of the online casino where you plan to play the progressive slot machine. Look for reputable providers and casinos with good reviews and fair policies.
By considering these factors, you can increase your chances of finding the right progressive slot machine for you, and ultimately increase your chances of hitting the jackpot.
What Are the Advantages of Playing Progressive Jackpot Slots?
The advantages of playing jackpot slots include the following:
Potential for Life-Changing Wins
One of the biggest advantages of playing jackpot slots is the potential for huge payouts that can be life-changing. With progressive jackpots, the amount of the jackpot continues to grow until it is won, often reaching millions of dollars.
Amped Up Excitement and Thrill
Jackpot slots can be incredibly exciting to play, especially when you’re in with a chance of winning a large sum of money. The prospect of hitting the jackpot can add an extra thrill to your slot gaming experience, making it more engaging and enjoyable.
Social and Community Aspects
Playing jackpot slots can also have social and community benefits. Many online casinos offer chat rooms and forums where you can connect with other players and share your experiences, strategies, and tips. This can create a sense of camaraderie and make your gaming experience more enjoyable.
Are There Any Disadvantages To Playing Jackpot Slots?
While there are many advantages to playing jackpot slots, it’s important to be aware of the potential downsides and potential risks. Some of the disadvantages to playing progressive jackpot slots include the following:
High Volatility
Most progressive Jackpot slots tend to be highly volatile, which means that they can have long periods without paying out, followed by a large payout. This can lead to significant losses in the short term and can be frustrating for players who are looking for more consistent payouts.
Low Probability of Winning
The odds of winning a jackpot on a slot machine are usually very low. While the potential payouts can be huge, the odds of actually winning the jackpot are often millions to one, which means that most players will not win the top prize.
High Betting Requirements
In order to be eligible for the jackpot on some slot machines, players may need to place a maximum bet. This can be expensive and can quickly eat into your bankroll, particularly if you are playing for an extended period of time.
Temptation to Chase Losses
Because of the high potential payouts, some players may be tempted to continue playing slot jackpots that are progressive in nature even if they are losing money in the hope of winning big. This can lead to chasing losses and can result in significant financial losses over time.
Addictive Nature
Progressive jackpot slots can be highly addictive, particularly for those who are susceptible to problem gambling. The allure of the potential payouts can lead some players to spend more money than they can afford, which can have negative consequences for their financial and personal lives.
What Are the Biggest Slot Machine Jackpot Wins of All Time?
Over the years, there have been several jackpot wins that have made headlines around the world. Here are the top 18 biggest jackpot wins of all time arranged in ascending order:
- $12.9 Million won by an anonymous winner while playing Mega Moolah slot at Luxury Casino in March 2019
- $13.6 Million won by an anonymous winner while playing Mega Moolah slot at Luxury Casino in May 2020
- $14.3 Million won by an anonymous winner while playing Megabucks slot at Rampart Casino, Las Vegas in December 2013
- $16.5 Million won by an anonymous winner while playing Mega Moolah slot at Jackpot City Casino in April 2020
- $17.25 Million won by Jon Heywood, a British soldier from Crewe while playing Mega Moolah slot at Betway casino
- $17.3 Million won by an anonymous winner from Las Vegas while playing Megabucks slot at M Resort, Henderson
- $17.8 Million won by an anonymous winner while playing Mega Fortune slot at Paf casino in January 2013
- $18.8 Million won by an anonymous winner while playing Mega Moolah slot at Grand Mondial casino in September 2018
- $20 Million won by an anonymous winner while playing Mega Moolah at Zodiac Casino in January 2019
- $21.1 Million won by World War II veteran Elmer H. Sherwin at the Cannery Casino & Hotel, Las Vegas in 2005
- $21.3 Million won by an anonymous 49-year-old business consultant from Illinois while playing Megabuck slot at Caesars Palace, Las Vegas in 1999
- $22.6 Million won by retired Californian Johanna Heundl while playing at Bally’s Casino, Las Vegas
- $24 Million won by an anonymous poker player from Finland while playing Mega Fortune slot at a European online casino in 2003
- $27.5 Million won by an anonymous winner while playing Wheel of Fortune slot at Palace Station Casino, Las Vegas in 1988
- $27.6 Million won by an anonymous 67-year-old retired flight attendant while playing Megabucks slot at Palace Station Resort, Las Vegas
- $34.9 Million won by local cocktail waitress Cynthia Jay-Brennan while playing Megabucks slots at Desert Inn Casino, Las Vegas in 2000
- $39.7 Million won by Ethan Miller, a young software engineer from Los Angeles at Excalibur Casino, Las Vegas in 2003
- $42.9 Million won by an anonymous winner in New York while playing the Sphinx slot at Resort World Casino, New York in 2016 (the winnings were, however, not paid out as the top prize in the game was stated to be $6,500 and it was clearly a mistake)
Also, here are some interesting facts about slot jackpot wins:
- Mega Moolah is one of the top-paying progressive jackpot slots available and has paid out some of the largest jackpots in history.
- There was a slot machine in Las Vegas that famously didn’t hit for over 20 years. The Lion’s Share slot machine at the MGM Grand had become something of a legend, with many players trying their luck over the years to no avail. However, in 2014, a couple from New Hampshire finally hit the jackpot and won $2.4 million.
- Mega Moolah is often referred to as the “Million Maker” due to its reputation for producing massive jackpot wins. In fact, the game has paid out over $1 billion in total jackpot wins since its launch.
- One of the biggest jackpot winners played on a mobile device when he hit the jackpot on Mega Moolah. In 2016, a British soldier won a staggering £13.2 million while playing the progressive jackpot slot on his mobile phone.
Is There Any Surefire Way to Hit the Progressive Jackpot in Slot Machines?
A Random Number Generator (RNG) decides the outcome of every spin in a progressive jackpot slot. Therefore, there is no surefire way of hitting the jackpot or any secret tactic to improve the odds of doing so.
Nevertheless, it’s useful to monitor the prize pools of various slot games and avoid the ones that have recently been won. Additionally, you can follow these 5 tips while playing progressive slot games online.
Stick to a budget
One of the best pieces of advice when it comes to playing casino games is to set a budget beforehand and stick to it. It’s important not to risk betting money that you can’t afford to lose. You don’t want to end up in a situation where you’re in over your head.
Bet Enough to be Eligible for the Jackpot
It’s also crucial to bet enough to qualify for the progressive jackpot. Some jackpots require a minimum bet to be eligible, so be sure to check the rules and regulations before placing your bet. It’s important to keep within your budget while still being able to qualify for the jackpot.
Decide What You’re Going For
Before placing a bet, determine what kind of win you’re aiming for. Depending on whether you’re playing for a large payout or several smaller ones, the way you bet will differ. Sometimes it’s more profitable to aim for the smaller wins and win multiple times.
Do Your Research
Do your homework on the game you plan to play. It’s important to know which game to play and how to play it. Additionally, keep track of which jackpots are about to drop so you can take advantage of them. You don’t want to waste your money on a slot machine that has already paid out the biggest win.
Determine the Volatility of Slots
Lastly, determine the volatility of the slot machine you plan to play. This means understanding the risks involved in playing that particular game. Volatility is about how often you’re expected to win and when those wins will occur. It’s important to know this information before placing your bet.
What are the Other Types of Jackpots in Online Slots?
Apart from progressive jackpots, online slots can also feature the following types of jackpots:
Network Jackpots
A network jackpot is a type of jackpot that is shared between multiple casinos, with players from each location contributing to a common prize pool. Similar to a national lottery, this jackpot grows as more players place their bets, with the final payout potentially reaching a significant amount.
With network jackpots, players can participate in a large-scale game with the chance to win a potentially life-changing sum of money. This type of jackpot also provides a global social aspect to the game, as players from different locations can compete against each other for the same prize.
Network jackpots are often linked to popular slot machines or other casino games, providing players with a range of options to choose from. As players continue to place bets, the jackpot increases, building excitement and anticipation among those competing for the prize.
Fixed Jackpots
A fixed jackpot is a type of jackpot in which the prize amount is predetermined and remains constant, regardless of the number of players participating in the game. Unlike a progressive jackpot, which increases in value as more players make bets, the prize for a fixed jackpot is static and does not fluctuate.
Fixed jackpots are sometimes referred to as ‘cash pot jackpots.’ Several slot games offer both fixed and progressive jackpots. This allows players to choose between a lower-risk, lower-reward fixed jackpot or a higher-risk, higher-reward progressive jackpot.
One of the advantages of fixed jackpots is that they offer a more predictable and stable gaming experience. Players can be confident in the amount they stand to win, which can make it easier to budget and manage their bankroll.
Additionally, fixed jackpots may be more appealing to players who prefer a slower-paced, less volatile style of gameplay. Such games might offer a different experience than progressive jackpots, but they can be a great choice for players who are looking for a more predictable and stable game.
Local Jackpots
In a local jackpot game, bets placed by players who are all playing at the same casino are pooled together to create a single prize pot. While the same slot game might be available at multiple casinos, each individual casino has its own unique prize pot.
This can be compared to a raffle, where tickets are only sold at a specific event and the winner must be present to claim their prize.
Local jackpots offer several benefits for players. Firstly, the prize pot tends to be smaller than those found in networked, fixed, or progressive jackpot games, meaning that there is a higher chance of winning.
Additionally, since the jackpot is only available to players at a specific casino, the competition is typically lower, further increasing the likelihood of winning.