Frequently Asked Questions

Video slots are digital slot machines found at online casinos. Unlike the mechanical fruit machines of the past, they use sophisticated software and Random Number Generators (RNG) to determine each spin's outcome. Modern video slots feature stunning graphics, immersive themes, multiple paylines, and exciting bonus features that create engaging gameplay experiences.

Popular video slots include titles like Starburst, Book of Dead, and Big Bass Bonanza, each offering unique themes and mechanics. You can explore our complete guide to top video slots for detailed reviews.

RTP stands for Return to Player and represents the theoretical percentage of all wagered money that a slot machine returns to players over time. For instance, a slot with 96% RTP theoretically returns £96 for every £100 wagered across millions of spins.

Important points about RTP:

• It's calculated over millions of spins, not individual sessions
• Your personal results will vary significantly in shorter periods
• Higher RTP doesn't guarantee wins—it indicates better long-term theoretical returns
• UK slots typically range from 92% to 98% RTP

Volatility (also called variance) describes how a slot distributes its payouts. It affects your gameplay experience significantly:

• Low Volatility: Frequent small wins, steadier bankroll, lower risk. Good for casual players and longer sessions.
• Medium Volatility: Balanced mix of win sizes and frequencies. Suitable for most players.
• High Volatility: Less frequent but larger wins, bigger bankroll swings. Requires patience and larger budget.

Learn more about choosing the right volatility in our how to play guide.

Licensed online slots at UKGC-regulated casinos are not rigged. Here's why you can trust them:

• They use certified Random Number Generators (RNG) that ensure fair, unpredictable outcomes
• Independent testing agencies like eCOGRA and iTech Labs audit these systems regularly
• The UK Gambling Commission requires strict compliance with fairness standards
• Game providers stake their reputation on integrity

However, remember that all slots have a built-in house edge through their RTP. This mathematical advantage ensures casinos profit long-term—it's not rigging, it's how gambling businesses operate legally.

Paylines are the lines across the reels where matching symbols must land to create winning combinations. Traditional slots had a single horizontal payline, but modern video slots can feature:

• Fixed Paylines: Set number always active (e.g., 10, 20, or 50 lines)
• Variable Paylines: Choose how many to activate
• Megaways: Dynamic paylines changing each spin (up to 117,649 ways to win)
• Cluster Pays: Wins based on symbol clusters rather than lines

More paylines generally mean more chances to win per spin, but also higher stake requirements to cover all lines.

Yes! Most reputable online casinos offer demo or free-play versions of their video slots. Demo mode lets you:

• Experience gameplay without risking real money
• Learn how bonus features work
• Test different slots to find ones you enjoy
• Practice betting strategies

Demo play uses virtual credits with no real money involved. It's an excellent way to explore new video slots before deciding whether to play with real funds.

Wild symbols substitute for other symbols to help create winning combinations, similar to a joker in card games. Types of wilds include:

• Standard Wilds: Basic substitution for any regular symbol
• Expanding Wilds: Grow to cover entire reels
• Sticky Wilds: Remain in place for multiple spins
• Walking Wilds: Move across the reels each spin
• Multiplier Wilds: Multiply wins they help create

Wilds typically cannot substitute for scatter or bonus symbols.

Scatter symbols are special symbols that pay regardless of payline position—they can appear anywhere on the reels to trigger rewards. Common functions include:

• Triggering free spins rounds (usually 3+ scatters needed)
• Awarding instant cash prizes
• Activating bonus games or features
• Acting as multipliers

Scatters are often the key to unlocking a slot's most lucrative features.

Bonus Buy (or Feature Buy) allows players to pay a premium to instantly trigger a slot's bonus round, rather than waiting for it to trigger naturally through scatter symbols. Typically costs 50-100x your base bet.

Important: In the UK, Bonus Buy features are banned at UKGC-licensed casinos. This regulation was introduced to protect players from the increased risk of faster gambling and higher stakes associated with this feature.

Megaways is a game mechanic created by Big Time Gaming that features dynamic reels where the number of symbols per reel changes each spin. This creates varying "ways to win"—up to 117,649 in many games.

How it works:

• Each reel shows 2-7 symbols randomly per spin
• Ways to win = symbols on reel 1 × reel 2 × reel 3 × etc.
• Often combined with cascading reels where wins disappear and new symbols drop
• Popular titles: Bonanza, Gonzo's Quest Megaways, Big Bass Megaways

Follow these steps to verify a casino's legitimacy:

1. Check UKGC Licence: Verify the licence number on the UK Gambling Commission website
2. Review Terms: Read bonus terms, wagering requirements, and withdrawal limits
3. Check Security: Look for SSL encryption (https) and secure payment methods
4. Read Reviews: Research player experiences on independent review sites
5. Test Support: Contact customer service with a question before depositing

Browse our curated list of trusted UK casinos for vetted options.

You must be 18 years or older to gamble at any UK casino, whether online or land-based. This is strictly enforced:

• Casinos must verify age before allowing real-money play
• KYC (Know Your Customer) checks require identity documents
• Withdrawals cannot be processed until verification is complete
• Providing false age information is illegal

KYC (Know Your Customer) is the identity verification process UK casinos must complete. Documents typically required:

• Proof of Identity: Passport, driving licence, or national ID
• Proof of Address: Utility bill or bank statement (dated within 3 months)
• Payment Verification: Photo of debit card (middle digits obscured)

KYC protects against fraud, money laundering, and underage gambling. Most casinos complete verification within 24-72 hours.

Casino bonuses can provide extra value, but always read the terms carefully:

• Wagering Requirements: How many times you must bet the bonus before withdrawal (e.g., 35x)
• Game Contributions: Slots usually count 100%, but table games may count less
• Time Limits: Bonuses often expire within 7-30 days
• Max Bet Limits: Betting too high can void bonuses
• Withdrawal Caps: Maximum winnings from bonus funds

If terms seem unreasonable, it may be better to deposit without a bonus for simpler withdrawal conditions.

GAMSTOP is a free UK self-exclusion service that restricts your access to online gambling sites. Key information:

• Choose exclusion period: 6 months, 1 year, or 5 years
• Covers all UKGC-licensed gambling websites
• Cannot be reversed during chosen period
• Free to register at gamstop.co.uk

GAMSTOP is an important tool for anyone who feels their gambling is becoming problematic.

Follow these principles for responsible gambling:

• Set a budget and stick to it—never chase losses
• Use deposit limits offered by casinos
• Set time limits for playing sessions
• Never gamble when emotional, stressed, or intoxicated
• View gambling as entertainment, not income
• Take regular breaks
• Never borrow money to gamble

Read our complete responsible gambling guide for more information.

UK support organisations offer free, confidential help:

• GamCare: 0808 8020 133 (24/7 helpline) | gamcare.org.uk
• BeGambleAware: begambleaware.org
• Gamblers Anonymous: gamblersanonymous.org.uk
• National Gambling Helpline: 0808 8020 133

Help is available 24/7. Reaching out is a sign of strength.

Deposit limits are self-imposed restrictions on how much you can deposit within a set period. UKGC-licensed casinos must offer:

• Daily Limits: Maximum deposit per 24 hours
• Weekly Limits: Maximum deposit per 7 days
• Monthly Limits: Maximum deposit per 30 days

Decreases take effect immediately; increases have a 24-hour cooling-off period. This prevents impulsive decisions to raise limits.

Common payment methods at UK online casinos:

• Debit Cards: Visa, Mastercard (credit cards banned for gambling)
• E-wallets: PayPal, Skrill, Neteller
• Bank Transfer: Direct from your bank account
• Prepaid Cards: Paysafecard
• Mobile Payments: Apple Pay, Google Pay

Note: Credit card gambling has been banned in the UK since April 2020.

Withdrawal times vary by method:

• E-wallets: 0-24 hours (fastest option)
• Debit Cards: 1-5 business days
• Bank Transfer: 3-7 business days

First withdrawals may take longer due to KYC verification. Once verified, subsequent withdrawals are typically faster. Some casinos have pending periods before processing begins.

Common reasons for withdrawal delays:

• Pending Verification: KYC documents not yet approved
• Bonus Wagering: Requirements not yet completed
• Processing Queue: Casino's standard processing time
• Weekend/Holiday: Bank processing paused
• Security Review: Large withdrawals may trigger extra checks

Contact customer support if withdrawal takes longer than stated timeframes.