The rules I use before choosing a slot machine

Online slots have gained popularity thanks to their simplicity, accessibility and winning potential. However, as with any game of chance, knowing the strategies can greatly improve your odds of success.

Choosing a slot machine:

• RTP (Return to Player): This is the percentage that a slot machine pays back to players in the long run. Opt for slots with a high RTP (95% or more) for better winning chances.
• Volatility: Determines how often and how big the payouts are. Low volatility provides frequent but smaller wins. High volatility provides rare but larger wins. Pick volatility that matches your playing style:
• If you want to win small amounts more often, choose low volatility slots. 
• If you’re willing to risk it for a chance at a big payout, choose high volatility slots.
• Bonus Features: Many slots offer bonus features like free spins, multipliers and extra games. Study the bonus features and potential payouts to:
• Choose slots with bonus features that meet your expectations.  
• Understand how bonus features are triggered and the odds of hitting them.
• Reviews: Read other players’ reviews of a slot to get an idea of its RTP, volatility, bonus features and overall experience.  

Demo Mode: An essential step before playing for real money

Before risking your money on any online slot, it’s vital to test it out in demo mode first. This is a free mode that lets you get familiar with the gameplay, bonus features and RTP of a slot without betting a cent.  

Let’s take the Hot Hot Fruit slot as an example. This classic fruit machine offers 5 reels, 3 rows and 5 paylines. Symbols include watermelons, grapes, plums, oranges and lemons. You can win up to 1000x your stake with the multipliers and free spins.

The Hot Hot Fruit demo mode allows you to:

• Learn the rules: See how winning combinations are formed, how bonuses are triggered and payouts calculated.  
• Experience the atmosphere: Check out graphics, animations and sound effects.
• Verify the RTP: Make multiple spins to get an idea of how often wins occur.  
• Try various strategies: Test different bet sizes, betting patterns to understand what works for you.

Playing demo mode won’t give you a chance at real money, but it provides valuable insights to boost your chances when playing for real stakes.  

Here are some tips on using demo mode:

• Play for 20-30 minutes: Enough time to get familiar and decide if you like the game.
• Check the RTP: Favor slots with a high RTP for better odds.  
• Try all bonus features: See how they are triggered and potential payouts.
• Test various betting strategies: See which perform best for you.  

Demo mode is an indispensable tool for any online slot player. It promotes responsible play by allowing you to learn the game, test strategies and manage your bankroll before betting real money.

Bankroll Management:  

• Set a budget: Determine the amount you are willing to spend before playing. This will help control your spending.
• Bet small amounts: Don’t risk it all at once. Make small wagers to stretch your budget and improve winning odds.
• Take breaks: Don’t play continuously. Take breaks to refresh and maintain control.
• Use betting strategies: Various strategies can help manage your bankroll, like the Martingale and Fibonacci systems. 

Popular Betting Strategies:

• Martingale: This doubles bets after each loss to eventually recoup losses and gain profit. But it can be risky as it requires a large bankroll.  
• Fibonacci: This increases bets sequentially based on Fibonacci numbers (1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21…). Less risky than Martingale but smaller profit potential.  
• Sessions: Split budget into sessions and play until one runs out. Helps control spending and avoid losing everything at once.
• Minimum lines: Bet minimum lines to conserve budget.  

Additional Tips:

• Know when to stop: Set a loss limit and have the discipline to stop playing when you reach it. This minimizes further losses.
• Claim bonuses: Online casinos offer attractive welcome bonuses to play slots. Use them judiciously to boost your playing power.
• Review account history: Check your playing stats and payouts regularly. Identify profitable slots to focus on.
• Avoid tilt betting: Don’t chase losses by betting more recklessly. This rarely ends well. Take a break instead.
• Play jackpot slots: Though low odds, they offer life-changing rewards. But budget accordingly as volatility is very high.

There are many facets to strategizing and winning at online slots – choosing the right games, managing your bankroll, using effective betting patterns, claiming bonuses judiciously and more. Adopting the right strategies takes time and effort but pays off by boosting your odds, enjoyment and sustainability significantly.

The keys are educating yourself, exhibiting discipline, setting a gambling budget and keeping emotions in check. Remember, responsible gambling is the mantra, not chasing losses or financial ruin. With prudence and perseverance, you will sail through the exciting world of online slots smoothly.