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What Are Progressive Jackpot Games?

The primary distinction between standard jackpots and progressive ones is the size of the jackpot itself. Unlike conventional jackpots, which have a set maximum, progressive jackpots grow continually. With each wager, the prize pool swells, meaning there’s virtually no upper limit. This aspect makes progressive jackpots particularly appealing, as the potential rewards can reach astonishing sums. On the flip side, traditional jackpots typically come with a fixed payout limit.

Top-Rated Progressive Jackpot Slots

  1. Mega Moolah – $27 million
  2. Mega Fortune – $27 million
  3. Major Millions – $3.8 million
  4. Shopping Spree – $7.4 million
  5. Jackpot Giant – $16.2 million
  6. Jackpot Pinatas – $2.7 million
  7. Aztec’s Millions (Realtime Gaming) – A staggering jackpot of $6 million
  8. Hall of Gods (NetEnt) – $11.8 million
  9. Arabian Nights (NetEnt) – $13 million
  10. Cash Splash (Games Global) – $183,530

An In-Depth Overview of Premier Progressive Jackpot Slots

Here’s some additional crucial information about each of our top 10 picks for progressive jackpot slots.

Mega Moolah – Developed by industry veteran Microgaming, now under Games Global, Mega Moolah hit the market in 2006 and was among the pioneers of online jackpot slots.

Mega Fortune – This popular jackpot slot comes from the renowned developer NetEnt and became publicly available in 2009.

Major Millions – A frequent name on this list, Major Millions is another highly esteemed jackpot slot from Games Global, previously known as Microgaming. This slot has been around since 1996, having been relaunched in 2013 with a refreshed game matrix.

Shopping Spree – Shopping Spree is a jackpot slot created by Realtime Gaming and has a solid reputation with more than ten years in the business, boasting only four recorded wins, the first one occurring in 2011 and the latest in 2022.

Jackpot Giant – Launched by Playtech in 2014, Jackpot Giant boasts impressive winnings, recording four significant payouts since its release, with the first in 2016 and the latest noted in 2019.

Jackpot Pinatas – Another popular title from Realtime Gaming, Jackpot Pinatas has delighted players for well over a decade, with its inaugural win marked in 2013.

Aztec’s Millions – Yet another engaging offering from Realtime Gaming, Aztec’s Millions debuted in 2009 and is recognized for its high stakes.

Hall of Gods – Released by NetEnt in 2013, Hall of Gods is known for its frequency of payouts, typically occurring about once a year.

Arabian Nights – Another top favorite from NetEnt, Arabian Nights launched in 2005 and has experienced numerous payouts since its inception.

Cash Splash – This entry from Games Global was introduced in 2004 and tends to distribute smaller jackpots compared to other titles on our list.

How Do Jackpot Slots Work?

When you make a bet in progressive jackpot slots, the jackpot increases in value. Your wager contributes directly to the total jackpot, and the payout includes a 'seed value' along with funds accumulated from prior players' bets. The 'seed value' signifies the baseline amount a jackpot can provide as a reward. When someone claims a jackpot, the prize doesn't revert to zero; instead, it resets to this seed value, often financed by the casino or game developer, ensuring players can always secure a prize even after a recent payout.

Pros

Thumbs Up Huge prize pools

Thumbs Up Infinite jackpot size

Thumbs Up Potentially big payouts for small wagers

Cons

Thumbs Down Long wait between wins

Thumbs Down Low RTP value

Things to Keep in Mind When Playing Jackpot Slots

There are several important aspects to consider while playing jackpot slots:

  • RTP
  • Slot volatility
  • Your budget

Return to Player (RTP) This refers to the average amount players can expect to receive back from their bets at a particular game. Games with a low RTP pay less in return for your wager, while those with a high RTP tend to provide better returns.

Slot volatility This refers to the frequency and amount of winnings. Low volatility slots typically yield smaller payouts more often, whereas high volatility slots may generate larger sums, but less frequently.

Always remember your spending limits when playing. Determine your budget ahead of time and cease wagering when your funds are depleted. Additionally, players should check for any promotions or bonuses that might be available. casino bonuses that can be used to play jackpot slots.

Where Can You Enjoy Playing Progressive Jackpot Slots?

You have several options for playing progressive jackpot slots. Aside from physical casinos, you can access these games via mobile apps or online gambling platforms. Though they share similarities, each offers unique features.

Online casinos are accessed through your home computer. You can enjoy progressive jackpots via an internet connection, but this might limit your ability to play while on the move. Mobile casino apps, on the other hand, are tailored for smartphones and tablets, allowing you to gamble on the go, no matter whether you're at home or not. They can usually connect using mobile data, so even without Wi-Fi, you can still play.

What Are the Chances of Winning a Progressive Jackpot Slot?

As reported by Untamed Science, the odds of hitting a progressive jackpot range from one in 50 million to one in 100 million. This means that in a game with a 50 million to one chance, only one player out of every 50 million can expect to win. While the chances are exceedingly slim, it's important to note that it’s not entirely impossible.

How Are Progressive Jackpots Paid?

There are two payment options for progressive jackpots: either a lump sum or an annuity. A lump sum means you receive the total jackpot amount immediately. While this may seem ideal, it's crucial to have a robust plan for managing such a large sum; this is key for avoiding impulsive spending or for investing wisely, should you choose. Alternatively, annuity payments dispense the jackpot over a specified number of years, paying out the total (minus any relevant taxes or fees) gradually over that timeline.

Who Makes Jackpot Slot Games?

The jackpot slot gaming sector is thriving, attracting many reputable developers. Some of the most notable names include:

  • Games Global
  • NetEnt
  • Playtech
  • IGT

At the forefront, Games Global is known for its highly successful jackpot title: WowPot! This franchise has gained popularity among both novices and seasoned players due to its outstanding payouts. NetEnt is a prolific name in the casino world, known for several hits including Mega Fortune, which consistently ranks among the most profitable progressive jackpot options available. Playtech contributes popular titles like Jackpot Giant, another player favorite. Finally, IGT has achieved significant success with its Wheel of Fortune slots.

My Top Recommendations for Winning a Progressive Jackpot

Before you dive into playing and spending your funds, here are three important tips you should keep in mind:

  1. Be pragmatic regarding your winning odds. There’s nothing inherently wrong with enjoying playing jackpot games, but it’s crucial to understand there’s no assurance of hitting the jackpot.
  2. Avoid setting expectations so high that you conclude your session feeling disappointed.
  3. Opt for smaller bets spread over a more extended timeframe, as you may find yourself waiting quite a while for a win.
  4. Ensure to define your budget before you start gambling, allocating funds to maximize your time spent playing.

While there's no guarantee of winning, these tips may help you streamline your betting strategy and play in a responsible manner.

What Other Types of Slots Can Be Played?

In tandem with progressive jackpot slots, several other types exist that you might want to explore. The most popular varieties include:

  • Video slots
  • Classic slots
  • Megaways slot

Video slots share similarities with jackpot slots, but they do not offer the possibility of winning an ever-increasing grand reward. Classic slots are basic three-reel games lacking special features. Megaways slots present a video slot concept with an astounding 117,649 winning combinations.

If you are interested in a variety of games to play, consider looking into titles like crash games such as JetX or live dealer options like Dreamcatcher, Crazy Coin Flip, and Cash or Crash.

Progressive Jackpot Slot FAQs

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Which Progressive Jackpot Slot Reigns Supreme?

Frequently, Mega Moolah and Mega Fortune find themselves competing closely in the realm of major payouts.

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What is the biggest jackpot won?

The highest jackpot obtained from the games in our selection is tied at a remarkable $27 million from both Mega Moolah and Mega Fortune.

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Are jackpot slots fair?

Rest assured, jackpot slots operate fairly! They are governed by random outcomes, guaranteeing that every player stands an equal chance to win.

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How often are jackpots won?

Wins in jackpot slots can occur at intervals ranging from mere days to several years.

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Is it Possible to Play Progressive Jackpot Slots for Free?

You can try out progressive jackpot slots for free, but keep in mind that you won’t win real money.

Marie Claire Graham
Marie Claire Graham Author

With nearly a decade of experience in the online casino sector, Marie-Claire Graham serves as our expert on online gambling. Her portfolio includes a wide array of writings, from casino reviews to news articles and blogs, although her true passion lies in gaming.

Read more about Marie Claire Graham