Progressive Jackpots: How They Work and How to Win Big

Have you ever walked around a casino floor and noticed that some slot machines seem to have larger payouts than others? You’ll likely notice that progressive slot machines have jackpots larger than the rest. Valley View Casino is home to some huge slot machine jackpot wins because of the number of progressive slot machines on the floor.

If you’re wondering what a progressive slot machine is and how you can win by playing one, you’re in luck! We have some tips to help you win that jackpot.

How Fixed Jackpots Work

Some slot machines have fixed jackpot amounts. These amounts remain unchanged no matter how much a machine is played, and they are often determined by the machine’s developers.

Typically, the payout on a slot machine is proportional to the price to play, meaning slot machines that require less to play are likely to have a lower payout. For instance, some slot machines are penny slots. This means if you’re playing the minimum bet, you’ll only be betting a cent with each slot pull. When doing so, you’re usually only playing one lower payline (a line on which a payout may be awarded), as opposed to all paylines, which would give you the opportunity to win more.

How Progressive Jackpots Work

Progressive slot machines, on the other hand, have jackpots that inch higher and higher with each slot pull, meaning their jackpots are often much larger. In fact, a portion of each bet goes toward increasing the jackpot amount until someone becomes the big winner.

Progressive jackpots can have huge payouts—sometimes in the seven-figure range. Watching the jackpot climb higher and higher is what makes progressive slots so exciting for many players.

Think of it as similar to playing the lotto. The longer someone goes without winning, the higher the payout becomes. This generates excitement, and more people purchase lotto tickets, driving the winning amount even higher.

Just like how the lotto pays out when someone hits all the right numbers, progressive jackpots will have a guaranteed winner when someone hits all of the machine’s paylines (usually while playing the max bet—more on that in just a bit).

Sometimes, progressive slot machines are linked to other machines on the casino floor or other slots across several casinos, so the jackpot climbs higher even faster. When the lucky winner hits, they usually win big—laying claim to a huge cash prize.

In fact, according to Guinness World Records, a Los Angeles software engineer took home the largest slot machine win in 2003 after playing just $100 at a Las Vegas slot machine. The payout totaled more than $39 million. And there have been plenty of other big winners since then. Could you be next?

Strategies for Hitting It Big

Know the Game

Before you start playing, make sure you fully understand the game rules. For instance, to be eligible for the progressive jackpot, you may need to play the maximum bet on all paylines. Some games may also offer bonus plays or multipliers. If you’ve never played the game before and are uncertain how it works, just ask one of our dedicated casino hosts. We’ll be more than happy to explain the game to you.

Time Your Spins Right

There is no set timeframe for when a progressive jackpot will pay out. If we could predict it, we’d all be rich, right? But when a progressive slot machine does pay out, the jackpot will reset to the initial starting amount. Then, as more people play, the jackpot amount will gradually increase again. So, if you’re looking for a large payout, you may need to wait a bit for the jackpot to start climbing after someone has won big. Time your play accordingly.

Have a Plan

Playing the slot machines is a form of entertainment. It should be fun and enjoyable. Have a game plan going in, and then stick to the plan. You’ll have a great time and walk away a winner regardless of whether or not you win the jackpot this time around.

Take Advantage of Free Slot Play

Did you know that you could get free slot play when you sign up for the Valley View Casino Players Club? Players Club members can take advantage of all sorts of promotions and MOREPLAY® offers. For instance, qualified guests can simply swipe their card to receive $10 in MOREPLAY® on certain days of the week. In fact, new members receive free slot play dollars just for joining!

When you visit, stop by our Players Club to learn more about our exclusive offers and enter our drawings for the chance to win monthly prizes, including cash and even luxury cars.

What to Know Before You Go

There is never any guarantee that you’ll win a progressive jackpot, so set realistic expectations and enjoy yourself. You’re taking a chance, which adds to the fun and excitement of it all, and there are certain strategies you can use to increase your winnings.

For instance, play at the casino with the loosest slot machines in San Diego and all of Southern California. Take a look at some of Valley View Casino’s most recent slot machine jackpot wins, including some winners who have pulled in six figures. We’d love to add your name to the list!

You have a choice about where you decide to play, so choose Valley View Casino & Hotel, and play at the casino with stellar customer service, exclusive Players Club benefits, award-winning dining and generous prize giveaways.

Need some help getting here? We have directions to help you find your way. We look forward to welcoming you to our award-winning casino and hope to see you soon!