Pokies (or slots) in the past were physical machines with real reels that you could trigger via a handle or a button. The reels would spin and produce a combination of symbols that would determine the reward. These machines are still available in land-based casinos, but most players in New Zealand prefer online pokies.
The online versions of pokies work similarly. You can visit a site like and choose any slot machine, but how do these games function if they don’t have physical reels? This article explains how pokies function at online casinos.
Basic Structure of Online Pokies
Online slots at sites like FatPirate Casino have a digital reel system. Developers use software to create animated reels with symbols.
Once you press the button, the software activates a random number generator (RNG). It stops the reels at random combinations. There are no patterns or systems that you can use to predict the outcome, so every spin is independent.
Each game uses a different number of reels and paylines. Classic pokies usually have 3 reels, video machines have 5 or more. Some slots use cluster systems instead of paylines or no lines at all.
Symbols must appear in a line or group to form a combination, unless the machine pays for matching 8+ icons (like in Pays Everywhere mechanic) You win when the same symbols appear in a winning format.
Important Terms: RTP, Volatility, and Paylines
Every online pokie at sites like FatPirate Casino has three important features. These determine how the game works:
- RTP. It means return to player. Most online slots have 90%-98% RTP, but it can be lower. A higher number means a better chance to win back more money in the long run.
- Volatility. It tells you how often and how much a game can pay. Low-volatility slots pay small amounts more often. High-volatility pokies pay larger sums but less often.
- Paylines. They’re lines where symbols must get to win. Some machines use fixed paylines. Others let you choose how many to activate.
RTP and volatility are fixed parts of each slot. You can’t change them, although the casino can sometimes choose from a range of RTPs. Some developers set several variations during the creation process, like 89%, 92%, 95%, and so on.
Symbols That Affect the Gameplay
Pokies have regular symbols and special ones. These are the most common options:
- Wilds. These replace regular symbols. They help complete winning combinations.
- Scatters. These unlock bonus rounds with free spins.
- Multipliers. These increase your rewards by a certain number.
Many pokies include expanding wilds, sticky wilds, cascading reels, stacked symbols, and other advanced mechanics.
Tips From FatPirate Casino‘s Experts
It’s possible to play responsibly and reduce losses when you play online pokies. These are a few useful recommendations:
- Play demo versions (free of charge) to understand the game mechanics.
- Set a monthly budget and split it into small daily amounts.
- Choose low-volatility slots to win more often.
- Use slots with higher RTP for better chances.
FatPirate Casino and other websites provide responsible gambling tools. Use them to limit your losses.
