Slots are the easiest game to play in the online casinos. Insert a coin, pull the handle, and then reach into your purse for more money. Unfortunately, that’s what normally happens when the house has such an enormous built-in edge. But that does not mean you cannot at least close the gap against you and throw in some fun to boot. So, below are some of my favorite slots tips to help you overcome this huge house advantage. These tips will not guarantee that you’ll become an instant winner, because it’s tough to beat a house edge that generally runs well over 10 percent, but it also doesn’t have to be so tough on your bankroll. Let’s get started.

1. The only true skill to playing slots is machine identification. Example: progressive machines offer the opportunity to compare and shop around for the best value. One 25 cent “slot machine carousel” can have a progressive jackpot of $2600 and another bank of machines-exactly the same and standing side by side-$1900. You should always be looking for the best free slots opportunities possible.

2. Casinos will advertise machines that have a 98.5 percent payback. WOW! A casino game holding just a percent and a half, and on a slot machine no less. But there is a downside. If you look closely at the advertisement, it will probably say, “on select machines.” Furthermore, it probably will not be posted on the machine itself, and generally will be limited to a single bank of machines in the casino. Now it becomes your responsibility to find them. Easiest way: Ask a slot employee, and if he or she doesn’t know, have one of them ask a direct supervisor.

3. Las Vegas gives away over one-half billion dollars in comps each year, and as a slots player, you deserve your share. Repeat, you deserve your share. How? Casinos now offer you the ability to “comp yourself” by using one of their player’s club slot cards. It is generally based on the number of coins you cycle through a machine, so you might as well get credit for all those quarters you’re inserting. Shop casinos for comp value and find out what you are worth to them.

4. You always want to treat “comps” as a form of profit, but you never want to gamble just to receive them. It’s much better to play a 98 percent payback machine and increase your winning opportunities than play machines with a poor return that cycle more of your coins. Remember that you’re there to stay in action and possibly win, not lose your bankroll for a free buffet.