The Class of Slot Machines

There are many variations of the slot machine. This classification of slot machines is vital in the state law concerning the restriction of this type of casino game. For some reason, the classes of slot machines are Class II and Class III. Apparently, Class I is not included in the categorization.

Slot machines that fall under Class III are self-regulating. They are free from the centralized computer system that presets the payouts. They are also known as the traditional slot machines. This type is common in casinos located in Nevada and Atlantic City. They earned the name “Vegas-style slots” since they are popular in the said place. The major game characteristics of Class III slots are as follows:

1.the participant plays against the house;
2.every game is a new game and cannot be tied up with previous games; and
3.once the player wins, it is announced right away.


Slot machines under Class II are regulated by a centralized computer system. The system is also responsible for the outcome of every bet. These machines are called VLTs which stands for video lottery terminals. Class II slots is sort of a spin-off of scratch-off lottery tickets since all machines have equal chances of winning. The game characteristics evident in Class II slots are enumerated below.

1.The player is competing with other participants for the same prize.
2.The game goes on until a player emerges as the winner.
3.The game has a preset number of wins and losses.
4.Players are active participants. They are responsible in announcing their wins and claiming their prizes.
5.All participants are required to play from identical set of numbers that are mentioned at the beginning of each game.

There are states where casinos should obtain a license first before operating Class III slot machines unlike those under Class II which are not strictly controlled by the state law.