Online slots are the most popular casino games and they’re easy to play. The process is simple: players place their bets and hit the ‘Spin’ button. The reels then spin and if matching symbols line up, the player wins. While the gameplay is straightforward, there’s a lot of science behind slots. The Random Number Generator (RNG) software constantly selects numbers, and the one that’s generated at the moment you press ‘spin’ determines what will happen on the reels.

Different RNGs produce a variety of outcomes, which are then combined by a mathematical module to create the final result for a given spin. The resulting payout will be calculated and displayed on the screen for you to see. You will also see the game’s volatility class, which tells you how often it pays out large amounts and what to expect in terms of small wins.

When picking an online slot, it’s worth considering the size of a site’s library and how often it gets updated. The addition of new mechanics like Megaways slots, high volatility slots or tumbling reels is a good sign that a casino’s keeping its games fresh and entertaining for players.