Are progressive jackpot slots worth playing in the long run?

Yes, progressive slots are usually a poor choice for anyone trying to eke out a long-term advantage. It’s simple arithmetic: because progressive jackpots are funded by taking a percentage of every wager and “taxing” it, the overall RTP is reduced.

But if you want to hit that jackpot, and don’t mind going for a Hail Mary, fine. You’re paying up for hope. Just remember your odds of success are very long.

Instead, I would recommend viewing them as a side bet or a special prize. Understand the odds, place a cap on your losses, and enter them as an entertainment expense with a smile. Then, the power is still fully in your hands. And if you strike it big, good for you – but don’t get carried away with expectations. We’d be happy to nerd out with you about jackpots in our interactive discussion.

Yes, progressive slots are a sucker bet if you are looking to make an expected-value profit – but then, so are all slots. The good news is that progressives might still be worth your time if the jackpot gets large enough that a low probability of hitting it with a very cheap ticket is worth taking. (Gambling is gambling.) Just don’t fall for the lie that these things are anything more than a game. As long as you treat them like a game and are not counting on them to pay the bills, you’re fine. For the purposes of grinding, though, better chances are better.

Progressive slots have their entertainment value, but from a risk-reward perspective, they’re generally not your best strategy. You should expect low chance and low reward, with a potentially high jackpot to aim for. Unless that jackpot is big – say, millions of dollars – don’t get too excited. You’re playing the slot version of the lottery. If you want a good shot at consistent winnings, stay away from high volatility. But if you’re after excitement, have at it – just do your homework first.

Progressive machines are another story. Their payouts are astronomical, but their probabilities are terrible (mathematicians advise against them). You will get lucky at some point, but you may never hit it big. You may as well play – if it’s a high enough win you’re after – and spend your money on something that doesn’t require any skill.

Well, except for those rare occasions when the progressive jackpot hits astronomical levels (and thus produces a positive EV), any “progressive” slot machine is generally a terrible idea for a long-term investment.