Myth 1

There are hot machines.

Fact

Poker machines don't keep track of play results. Each play result is drawn from all possible combinations and is totally independent from previous plays. Each game is random. This means there are not "hot machines".

Myth 2

Some machines are due to pay.

Fact

Gaming machines are designed to pay out randomly. They follow no set pattern and there is no way to predict the outcome of the game. There is no technique, no combination of button pushes, no change in bet amounts that will have any effect.

Myth 3

Players can control the outcome of a game.

Fact

It is impossible for players to control the outcome of a game. The outcome of each spin is determined as soon as players hit the play button.

Myth 4

The machine has just paid out a big win. It is not likely to pay out again for a while.

Fact

The chances of winning are always the same. The number of past wins and losses have nothing to do with when the next payout will come. All payouts are random - there is no pattern even if it looks like there is one.

Myth 5

When the screen shows a series of near misses (plays where the symbols almost line up), the chance is, the machine is about to pay out a big win.

Fact

There is no such thing as near misses. The symbols are just pictures that are displayed randomly during play. They are absolutely no indication that the machine is about to payout.

Myth 6

If you are losing, changing your bet level is a useful strategy to get wins going again.

Fact

Nothing you can do while playing can improve your chances of winning. All outcomes - wins and losses - are entirely random. You may do things and think you see a pattern, but the truth is, there is no strategy that will increase your chances of winning.

Myth 7

Gaming machines are programmed to return a certain percent back to each individual player.

Fact

In Queensland, electronic gaming machines are programmed to return between 85% and 92% to players in Queensland clubs and hotels. An 85% return means that for every dollar placed in a machine, 85 cents must be returned to the gambler. This return is achieved over the life of the machine, usually 3-4 years. You cannot expect to receive 85 cents for every dollar you bet in a single gaming session. The money you place in the gaming machine is the cost of the entertainment.

Myth 8

Special times of the day are best for playing machines because they pay out more at such times

Fact

This is simply superstitious. It makes no difference to a machine’s operation if it is played at any particular time of the day or night.

Other Myths

Discovering the secret “skill” factor will produce a win; Touching the buttons in a particular way will change the way the machine pays out; Concentrating or positive thinking will help you win.

Fact

All untrue. There is no such skill factor or special method of play. No amount of concentration or positive thinking can affect the machine. Gambling is a game of chance.

If you are concerned about yourself or someone else, talking to someone at Gambling Help is a good place to start.

For more information on responsible gambling or any other topic related to gambling, please contact Gambling Help Moreton Bay Region.