The term “to hit the jackpot” is known even to people who never played a casino game in their life. The allure of life-changing prizes is as strong as ever, especially in online casino slots, where a new expression found its way into the lingo - progressive jackpots. So, what are progressive slot jackpot games, and how do they work? Are they really that much better than the regular ones? Is there any difference at all?
So many questions pop to mind. We better start answering them!
What Is A Progressive Jackpot?
A progressive jackpot is, to put it simply, a game where the maximum win keeps growing the more gamers play it. From every spin played, a small amount is taken and added to the slot jackpot, making it bigger and more attractive. Once the progressive jackpot has been hit, it goes back to the starting amount, also known as the seeding amount.
Global Jackpots Rock the World
A global progressive slots game is a slot machine that is a part of a bigger jackpot network. A network may include jackpot slots, be available at multiple casinos, and all of them contribute to the mammoth prize pot only the luckiest players can trigger, no matter which casino they are playing at.
Essentially, these are the biggest and shiniest progressive jackpots in the industry and the stuff dreams are made of. The most famous example of a global slot jackpot network is Microgaming’s Mega Moolah.
Think Locally!
On the other hand, local progressive jackpots don’t apply to all casino sites offering the game. It accumulates within one brand or multiple casino brands run by the same operator. Therefore, different casinos may have different amounts listed as the jackpot prize. The most notable example of local slot jackpot is Divine Fortune by Netent.
Are Progressive Jackpots Worth the Effort?
News about sensational payouts and progressive jackpot wins always land in the headlines, but it is quite obvious jackpots aren’t triggered on a daily basis. Players are often wondering if they are even worth a shot. As always, it is up to you to decide, but we’ll do our best to give you some objective info.
Let’s Do the Math!
Before we start, remember that in addition to jackpot wins, when you play progressive jackpot games, base game wins are available. So, certain gamers consider the jackpot to be an added element of fun (and a very lucrative one at that!).
That being said, your chances of landing progressive jackpots are 1 in 50 million - and even lower for some games.
RTP and Volatility
Gaming nerds will now leave this article and hurry to check the RTP of the best progressive jackpots. They might be surprised to find them lower than what they might find on standard video slots.
For instance, Mega Moolah has an RTP of 88.12%, which is pretty underwhelming compared to the average 96%. On the other hand, the Age of The Gods has a more bearable 95% to count on.
The Best Progressive Series Online
Gamers can’t get enough of progressive jackpot slots, and many content suppliers have recognized the potential of progressive jackpots. So, without any further ado, let’s take a look at the best jackpot series the iGaming world has to offer! These are some of the most popular progressive jackpot games out there:
Dream Drop by Relax Gaming
The mastermind behind Dream Drop progressive jackpots is Relax Gaming, a studio that added five linked progressive global jackpots ranging from Rapid to Mega. The most anticipated jackpot in the series is, of course, the Mega Jackpot.
Age of the Gods by Playtech
Age of the Gods is a saga in every sense of the word, and considering one of the most popular progressive jackpot games. Inspired by ancient gods and their mischiefs, it spans across cultures, times, and territories. Meet gods residing at Olympus or heroes of Valhalla, and vying for the chance of winning a progressive jackpot.
Mega Moolah by Microgaming
And last but not least - the one progressive jackpot series to rule them all! Mega Moolah needs no introduction, as it has enthralled players for over a decade. Launched in 2006, the Mega Moolah slot jackpot has dished out more than £1 billion to date. The top tier of the Mega Moolah jackpot seeds at £1 million, but the biggest payout hit close to £16.5m!
The Biggest Jackpot Wins in History
We have already cracked the door open to breathtaking wins, so let’s open it wider to find out more! Mega Moolah is not the only jackpot game paying big bucks.
Those Microgaming guys sure know how to throw a party! Title after title, they consistently offer the biggest jackpots, with prizes seeding at £1m (Mega Moolah) and €2m (WowPot!). Despite somewhat lower RTPs, a jackpot that could compete with Microgaming's creations is yet to be created.
Meanwhile, Playtech is the proud keeper of the UK record for the largest jackpot payout ever won on a mobile device. One lucky lady scored £4.5 million on a humble £4 bet! All we can do is say “Congrats!” and keep our fingers crossed the same happens to us.
