Progressive Jackpots Overview
You may have noticed that most online casinos differentiate between classic and jackpot slots. But since all slots have a “jackpot prize,” what's the difference?
The answer is a progressive jackpot. A progressive jackpot is a prize that increases every time somebody plays a slot game. It will keep on rising until a lucky player wins it.
In progressive slot games, a small percentage of every qualifying bet goes toward the jackpot. It can be won at random or by navigating a special bonus game. And the prizes that can be won easily rival those found in your state lottery.
How Do Progressive Jackpot Games Work?
What is a progressive jackpot? It’s a special slots payout that can be won at random after any spin. And the longer the jackpot goes unclaimed, the bigger it gets.
Progressive jackpot slots usually take a proportion of each bet wagered and add it to the jackpot. This sum is sometimes called the “meter,” and it is normally taken from multiple slots at the same time.
For example, if several people are playing NetEnt’s Divine Fortune at the same time, they will all be contributing to and playing for the same jackpot. Many progressive jackpots are linked across multiple casinos. When more than one casino offers the same game, the jackpots can get really big.
Best of all, when a progressive jackpot is claimed, it will “seed,” or reset, to a set value. The greatest progressive slots may reseed their jackpots to £/€/$ 1 million.
Progressive Jackpot Win Mechanics
So, what is a progressive slot machine and how does it work? After a spin, a set of random numbers is chosen. If the right algorithm is picked, the jackpot will be triggered.
But there is a range of ways you can win a progressive jackpot:
Play the Maximum Stake
- Some online progressive slots will only let you win a jackpot if you bet the top stakes possible. However, lots of progressives offer a few levels of jackpot that cater for lower-stakes players.
- High-stakes progressive slots work by awarding you with a ticket when you spin the reels. The more you bet, the more “tickets” you earn. And if one of your tickets matches the algorithm after a spin, you win the big jackpot.
Winning a Jackpot at Random
- These jackpots are awarded after any spin. You won’t have to play a special bonus game or hit certain symbols. However, you may have to bet the maximum possible wager in order to qualify.
Hitting Symbol Combinations
- To hit this progressive jackpot, you must line up certain symbols on a designated payline. For example, the jackpot may trigger if you line up five special symbols on the 15th payline. Get the winning combination and collect the biggest jackpot.
Playing a Bonus Game
- Many online progressive slots feature a special bonus round that can be triggered during the base game. You may have to spin a prize wheel to determine your jackpot size, or pick cards from a selection available on the screen. Match three or four cards to win the corresponding jackpot prize.
Random Number Generators
- It’s important to understand random number generators (RNGs) when you play a progressive jackpot slot. All video slots are governed by RNGs that ensure fair slot play every time.
- Progressive slots also work on RNGs. They determine when a jackpot or bonus game is going to be triggered. So, even if a jackpot has gone unclaimed for weeks, there’s no reason it will be suddenly ready to drop.
Must-Drop Jackpots
- Many online progressive slots feature must-drop jackpots. These are programmed to trigger by a strict deadline. Therefore, they usually attract more money as the deadline approaches.
How Big Can Progressive Jackpots Get?
Progressive jackpots can reach eye-watering levels if a top prize goes unclaimed. And the more accessible a slot is, the bigger the potential for large jackpots.
Often, a progressive jackpot that hasn’t been won in a long time will attract the attention of lots of players. It’s not uncommon for jackpots to increase faster the longer they go unclaimed.
The biggest progressive jackpot was won by an anonymous Android mobile device player, who staked 75 cents on Mega Moolah and less than 50 spins later had landed the jackpot of £22.3 million in September 2018.
Mega Moolah had been responsible for the previous record too, landed by UK-based soldier Jon Heywood, who in October 2015 turned 33 cents into £21.1 million, earning the progressive jackpot game a Guinness World Record title for “Largest jackpot payout in an online slot machine game.”
Previously the record payout was owned by an anonymous Finn, who netted an astonishing £20.5 million on Mega Fortune.
But online progressive jackpot payouts still fall way below those seen in land-based casinos. In 2003, a young software engineer won a staggering £39.7 million playing IGT’s Megabucks slot at the Excalibur in Las Vegas.
Incredibly, the game’s jackpot seeds at £10 million. Even more astounding, however, was that the lucky slots player only spent £3 on his spin.
Check Out: Best casino apps for Progressive Jackpots.
Finding Progressive Jackpots
Most online casinos organise their slots by type. For example, a casino might feature a separate “Jackpot Slots” tab where you'll find all progressive jackpot slots in one place.
Virtually all casinos will display the current jackpot meter for eligible games in their lobby. It’s easy to view what games have the biggest jackpots at any time. You can also view a list of big winners on the casino that day.
You will find more information on progressive slots with our exclusive guide. You’ll discover reviews and information on the best casinos offering jackpot slots. We’ll even show you some of the best casino bonus codes so you can make a deposit and claim a bonus when you sign up.
Types of Progressive Jackpots
In a casino, you will usually find three types of progressive jackpots. The jackpot sizes can vary depending on how many players contribute, and how many different machines are linked up.
Standalone Jackpots
A standalone progressive jackpot is reserved to just one machine in the casino. It’s not linked to other slot machines and doesn’t form part of a wider network.
Local Jackpots
Local jackpots, or “in-house” jackpots, are grouped together between multiple machines in one land based casino setting. The machines might be connected together in one bank or they may be spread across the casino floor. At an online casino, a local jackpot might be linked across four or five different games.
Some local jackpots are also spread across multiple machines in casinos that are owned by the same operator.
Network Progressive Slots
Network progressives offer the largest jackpots. They are also known as “wide-area” progressives and are linked across multiple casinos. In fact, the same wide-area jackpot may be offered across different brands of slot. However, qualifying bets all feed into the same big jackpot. The chances of winning a network jackpot are small, but the prizes can be huge.
RELATED: Looking To Enjoy Some Slot Play But Not Risk Real Money? Check Out The Best Free Spins Offers Online
Chances of Winning a Progressive Jackpot
First, the good news: With a progressive jackpot slot you have the chance of turning a small stake into a five- or six-figure prize.
But here’s the bad news: The odds of winning the top jackpot can be in the millions to one. For example, the chances of winning the Mega Moolah slot by Games Global is nearly 50 million to 1. That is a lot higher than the game’s best ever jackpot payout of £22.3 million.
However, some Vegas progressive jackpot slots have even worse odds. Some games offer odds of 1 in 150 million to 1 in 300 million.
Just like the lottery, players will always try to defy the odds and take down a huge progressive jackpot. Is your name on that next multi-million dollar payout?
Recommended Casino Sites
-
18+ T&C Apply. Play Responsibly. Full Terms Apply. This offer is not available for players residing in Ontario.Long Established UK Sportsbook & CasinoBrand Ambassadors Harry Redknapp & Michael OwenLive Chat Support Available 24/7Promo Code
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
Min Deposit10Bonus WageringThe number of times you have to play through your bonus before you are able to withdraw any winnings
35xPayout TimeThe average withdrawal processing time
1-3 DaysCasino GamesThe total number of casino games available
598Jackpot SlotsThe number of jackpot slot games available
23BetVictor were one of the pioneers of the online gambling industry and their online casino was launched back in 2000. -
18+ T&C Apply. Play Responsibly. Full Terms Apply. This offer is not available for players residing in Ontario.Adds Brand New Games ConstantlyWheel of Fortune & Bonus Crab FeatureMassive Multi-Lingual Live Casino SectionPromo Code
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
Min Deposit10Bonus WageringThe number of times you have to play through your bonus before you are able to withdraw any winnings
35xPayout TimeThe average withdrawal processing time
3 DaysCasino GamesThe total number of casino games available
5362Jackpot SlotsThe number of jackpot slot games available
224Neon 54 library includes a great selection of games with over 4,000 titles. It's cartoonish design makes the platform stand out. Players can find all the popular titles in one place. -
19+ T&C Apply. Play Responsibly. Full Terms Apply. This offer is not available for players residing in Ontario.Awarded ‘Casino of the Year’ 2017 & 2018Win Prizes in Daily Slots TournamentsOfficial Partner of McLaren F1 Racing TeamPromo Code
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
Min Deposit10Bonus WageringThe number of times you have to play through your bonus before you are able to withdraw any winnings
10xPayout TimeThe average withdrawal processing time
1-2 DaysCasino GamesThe total number of casino games available
1535Jackpot SlotsThe number of jackpot slot games available
130Part of the multinational gaming group Entain, Party Casino offers a huge range of progressive jackpots and exclusive slots tournaments, with 24/7 support. -
18+ T&C Apply. Play Responsibly. Full Terms Apply. This offer is not available for players residing in Ontario.Massive Collection Counting Over 4,000 GamesVIP Loyalty ProgramMultiple Cryptocurrencies SupportedPromo Code
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
Min Deposit20Bonus WageringThe number of times you have to play through your bonus before you are able to withdraw any winnings
35xPayout TimeThe average withdrawal processing time
2-5 DaysCasino GamesThe total number of casino games available
2500Jackpot SlotsThe number of jackpot slot games available
147Casino Days features a clean design, simplifying navigation of thousands of games from top providers. The variety also translates to the live casino where players can enjoy over 250 different options. -
19+ T&C Apply. Play Responsibly. Full Terms Apply. This offer is not available for players residing in Ontario.'Mobile Casino Product of the Year' 20211000+ Slot Games, including Mega FortuneCasino App available for Apple & AndroidPromo Code
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
Min Deposit20Bonus WageringThe number of times you have to play through your bonus before you are able to withdraw any winnings
35xPayout TimeThe average withdrawal processing time
1-5 Working DaysCasino GamesThe total number of casino games available
2700Jackpot SlotsThe number of jackpot slot games available
92Leo Vegas Casino has won multiple industry awards, including 'Online Casino of the Year' at the Global Gaming Awards four years in a row. -
18+ T&C Apply. Play Responsibly. Full Terms Apply. This offer is not available for players residing in Ontario. - Full Terms ApplyFriendly Panda Themed CasinoOver 1,450 Games AvailableDual Casino & Sportsbook PlatformPromo Code
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
Min Deposit15Bonus WageringThe number of times you have to play through your bonus before you are able to withdraw any winnings
35xPayout TimeThe average withdrawal processing time
1-3 Working DaysCasino GamesThe total number of casino games available
2300Jackpot SlotsThe number of jackpot slot games available
61Royal Panda should be the top pick for all players who are interested in a casino with a distinctive theme. The platform became popular quickly after its launch due to its panda theme. -
18+ T&C Apply. Play Responsibly. Full Terms Apply. This offer is not available for players residing in Ontario.Ongoing Casino PromotionsWeekly Challenges & TournamentsVIP Cashback ProgramPromo Code
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
Min Deposit30Bonus WageringThe number of times you have to play through your bonus before you are able to withdraw any winnings
35xPayout TimeThe average withdrawal processing time
2-3 Working DaysCasino GamesThe total number of casino games available
3000Jackpot SlotsThe number of jackpot slot games available
31GreatWin Casino offers a distincive platform with colourful design. It offers a big selection of games with ongoing tournaments and challenges. VIP plan comes with a rewarding cashback for regular players. -
19+. T&C Apply. Play ResponsiblyWelcome package of up to $6,375 + 1.800 Free SpinsVIP program with up to 20% weekly cashback an 150% weekly Reload bonusHuge selection of hundreds of top slot gamesPromo Code
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
Min Deposit20Bonus WageringThe number of times you have to play through your bonus before you are able to withdraw any winnings
50xPayout TimeThe average withdrawal processing time
2 - 5 Working DaysCasino GamesThe total number of casino games available
1500Jackpot SlotsThe number of jackpot slot games available
180Winawin is a great addition to the Canadian online casino market, offering slots, live dealer games, and table games. They are licensed throughout Canada, including Ontario -
19+. T&C Apply. Play ResponsiblyExclusive Livestream Betting PlatformCrypto Payments AvailableVast range of Live Dealer gamesPromo Code
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
Min Deposit20Bonus WageringThe number of times you have to play through your bonus before you are able to withdraw any winnings
40xPayout TimeThe average withdrawal processing time
1-5 working daysCasino GamesThe total number of casino games available
750Jackpot SlotsThe number of jackpot slot games available
4Re-launched with new branding in 2020, Highroller Casino is a VIP experience for Canadian players. With a focus on slots and live stream betting, Highroller is the perfect platform for the next generation of bettors. -
18+ T&C Apply. Play Responsibly. Full Terms Apply. This offer is not available for players residing in Ontario.Multiple Blackjack Games with 99.63% RTPVIP Club with a Salon Privé for Elite PlayersLas Vegas Themed CasinoPromo Code
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
Min Deposit20Bonus WageringThe number of times you have to play through your bonus before you are able to withdraw any winnings
35xPayout TimeThe average withdrawal processing time
1-5 DaysCasino GamesThe total number of casino games available
1550Jackpot SlotsThe number of jackpot slot games available
39Dream Vegas Casino aims to recreate the magic and excitement of the Vegas strip and is fully optimised for mobile use. -
18+ T&C Apply. Play Responsibly. Full Terms Apply. This offer is not available for players residing in Ontario.Playful Cartoonish ThemeDual Casino & Sportsbook PlatformRegular Casino TournamentsPromo Code
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
Min Deposit20Bonus WageringThe number of times you have to play through your bonus before you are able to withdraw any winnings
35xPayout TimeThe average withdrawal processing time
1-3 Working DaysCasino GamesThe total number of casino games available
529Jackpot SlotsThe number of jackpot slot games available
187Oh My Spins is an eye-catching platform with colourful theme featuring a big selection of games and even better promotions. Aside from generous welcome bonus, players can enjoy ongoing tournaments and a VIP program. -
18+ T&C Apply. Play Responsibly. Full Terms Apply. This offer is not available for players residing in Ontario.VIP Program with 30 LevelsBizzo Accepts Bitcoin, Litecoin & EthereumRegular TournamentsPromo Code
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
Min Deposit25Bonus WageringThe number of times you have to play through your bonus before you are able to withdraw any winnings
40xPayout TimeThe average withdrawal processing time
1-3 DaysCasino GamesThe total number of casino games available
3500Jackpot SlotsThe number of jackpot slot games available
22Bizzo wants to keep players coming back. There's much you can do on the platform. Plus, there's always the chance of joining the Hall of Fame if you score a big win. -
1319+. T&C Apply. Play Responsibly
-
19+. T&C Apply. Play ResponsiblyExchange Loyalty iCoins for BonusesRegular Tournaments & Reload Bonuses10% Weekly Cashback InsurancePromo Code
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
Min Deposit20Bonus WageringThe number of times you have to play through your bonus before you are able to withdraw any winnings
40XPayout TimeThe average withdrawal processing time
24 hoursCasino GamesThe total number of casino games available
7000Jackpot SlotsThe number of jackpot slot games available
600iWild Casino has a bright 'court jester' theme and they entertain Irish players with a huge variety of traditional and new casino games, including an impressive selection of live casino tables. -
19+ T&C Apply. Play Responsibly Full Terms Apply This offer is not available for players residing in OntarioVIP Club Loyalty ProgramRegular TournamentsOver 2,000 Games AvailablePromo Code
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
Min Deposit20Bonus WageringThe number of times you have to play through your bonus before you are able to withdraw any winnings
40xPayout TimeThe average withdrawal processing time
12 Hrs / 3-5 Working DaysCasino GamesThe total number of casino games available
146Jackpot SlotsThe number of jackpot slot games available
60Megaslot casino is an N1 Interactive brand that counts thousands of games. It's a great option due to regularly hosting tournmanets alongisde its VIP Program. -
19+. T&C Apply. Play ResponsiblyOver 51 Leading Software Providers FeaturedMost Withdrawals Credited Within 24 HoursPlay Casino Games To Unlock Surprise RewardsPromo Code
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
Min Deposit10Bonus WageringThe number of times you have to play through your bonus before you are able to withdraw any winnings
30xPayout TimeThe average withdrawal processing time
2-5 Working DaysCasino GamesThe total number of casino games available
643Jackpot SlotsThe number of jackpot slot games available
0One of the newer online casino platforms out there, Casibee Casino offers a cute and immersive anime theme, making it a truly unique platform among the competition. -
19+. New Players Only. Min. deposit $20. Max. bonus 1st deposit 100% up to $50 and 2nd deposit 50% up to $100. Max wins from spins $100. 35x wagering applies, within 21 days. 20 spins on 1st deposit and 30 spins on 2nd deposit. Spins available on specific games. Spins expire after 24 hours. Full T&Cs ApplyHeavy Focus on Offering Unique SlotsReputable Casino with iTech Labs CertificationWide Range of Responsible Gambling ToolsPromo Code
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
Min Deposit20Bonus WageringThe number of times you have to play through your bonus before you are able to withdraw any winnings
35xPayout TimeThe average withdrawal processing time
2-5 Working DaysCasino GamesThe total number of casino games available
1650Jackpot SlotsThe number of jackpot slot games available
0Slotzo Casino is a very reputable operator with two licenses and proven fair gaming. It focuses on providing unique online slots from over two dozen providers. -
18+ T&C Apply. Play Responsibly. Full Terms Apply. This offer is not available for players residing in Ontario.Multi-language Live CroupiersUp To 500 Weekly Free SpinsGenerous Loyalty Scheme with Four-Tier Vip ClubPromo Code
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
Min Deposit10Bonus WageringThe number of times you have to play through your bonus before you are able to withdraw any winnings
40xPayout TimeThe average withdrawal processing time
2-5 DaysCasino GamesThe total number of casino games available
1600Jackpot SlotsThe number of jackpot slot games available
50 -
18+ T&C Apply. Play Responsibly. Full Terms Apply. This offer is not available for players residing in Ontario.Simple Sign Up ProcessIntuitive & Clean InterfaceHand-Picked Games from Top ProvidersPromo Code
The code required to claim a sign-up bonus (if any)
Min Deposit20Bonus WageringThe number of times you have to play through your bonus before you are able to withdraw any winnings
35xPayout TimeThe average withdrawal processing time
1 - 5 DaysCasino GamesThe total number of casino games available
1608Jackpot SlotsThe number of jackpot slot games available
29Operated by award winning White Hate Gaming company, Klasino stands out from others with clean design and the top selection of available games in its portfolio. -
2018+ T&C Apply. Play Responsibly. Full Terms Apply. This offer is not available for players residing in Ontario. - Full Terms Apply
-
2118+ T&C Apply. Play Responsibly. Full Terms Apply. This offer is not available for players residing in Ontario.
-
2219+ T&C Apply. Play Responsibly. Full Terms Apply. This offer is not available for players residing in Ontario.
-
2318+ T&C Apply. Play Responsibly. Full Terms Apply. This offer is not available for players residing in Ontario.
-
2418+ T&C Apply. Play Responsibly. Full Terms Apply. This offer is not available for players residing in Ontario.
-
2518+ T&C Apply. Play Responsibly. Full Terms Apply. This offer is not available for players residing in Ontario.
-
2618+ T&C Apply. Play Responsibly. Full Terms Apply. This offer is not available for players residing in Ontario.
-
2718+ T&C Apply. Play Responsibly. Full Terms Apply. This offer is not available for players residing in Ontario.
-
2818+ T&C Apply. Play Responsibly. Full Terms Apply. This offer is not available for players residing in Ontario.
-
2918+ T&C Apply. Play Responsibly. Full Terms Apply. This offer is not available for players residing in Ontario.
-
3019+ T&C Apply. Play Responsibly. Full Terms Apply. This offer is not available for players residing in Ontario.
-
3119+. T&C Apply. Play Responsibly
-
3219+ T&C Apply. Play Responsibly. Full Terms Apply. This offer is not available for players residing in Ontario.
-
3318+ T&C Apply. Play Responsibly. Full Terms Apply. This offer is not available for players residing in Ontario.
-
3418+ T&C Apply. Play Responsibly. Full Terms Apply. This offer is not available for players residing in Ontario.
-
3519+ T&C Apply. Play Responsibly. Full Terms Apply. This offer is not available for players residing in Ontario.
-
36Wagering requirement for the offer is x25 bonus + deposit. / Wagering requirement must be completed within 7 days. This campaign will go on until further notice. / koicasino.com reserves the right to change or cancel the promotion at any time. / koicasino.com’s general Terms & Conditions and Bonus rules apply. This offer is not available for players residing in Ontario.
-
<