Beginner's guide to slots
New to slot games? Need some guidance? You're in the right place. Whether you've never played before or you're coming across unfamiliar terms, this guide is designed to help you understand the basics in plain English.
From how slot games work to features such as free spins (free plays), bonus games and Jackpots, we'll explain the concepts you'll often see when playing online slots. You'll also find simple guides to terms like RTP and volatility, as well as information about withdrawals and payments.
Choose a topic below to get started or work your way through the guides at your own pace. No complicated jargon. Just straightforward explanations to help you get to grips with slot games and how they work.
Start with the basics
If you're completely new to slot games, these guides are a great place to begin. You'll learn what slot games are and how they work, as well as some of the terms you'll come across while playing.
What are slot games?
New to slots? This guide explains what slot games are, how they work and the different formats you might come across online.
How do slot games work?
Learn how slot outcomes are generated, what happens when you press spin and why every result is random and fair.
Understand slot features
Slot games often include extra features that can add a twist to your gameplay. If you've spotted terms like bonus games or free spins and aren't quite sure what they mean, these guides explain the features you'll commonly come across.
Slot features explained
Understand common slot features, including special symbols and other game mechanics you'll often see on the reels.
What are bonus games?
Find out what bonus games are and how they can add extra gameplay to a slot.
What are free spins?
Find out how free spins work and why they're a familiar feature you'll meet in many slot games.
Fancy taking a spin?
Understand the numbers
Some slot terms are there to help explain how a game is designed rather than what you might win. These guides break down a couple of the most common terms you'll see when comparing different slot games.
What is RTP?
RTP stands for Return to Player. This guide explains what it means and how it's used when comparing different slot games.
What is volatility?
Volatility describes how often wins may happen and how large they might be. This guide explains what it means and why it can vary between slot games.
Understand prizes and payments
From Jackpots to withdrawals, it's helpful to understand how prizes and payments work before you start exploring different slot games. These guides explain some of the terms you may come across and what they mean in practice.
What are Jackpots?
Discover how Jackpots work, including the different types that can appear in online slot games.
Ready to put your knowledge into practice?
Once you've got to grips with the basics, why not explore the games for yourself? From quick spins to games featuring bonus rounds, tombola arcade is home to a range of original games designed with fun in mind.
Whether you're just starting or looking for your next favourite game, you can browse our collection and discover what makes each one unique.
Keep it fun
The more you understand about slot games, the easier it is to choose the ones that suit you. Explore the guides, learn the basics and take things at your own pace.
Whether you're spinning for the first time or building your confidence, it's important to play in a way that feels comfortable and controlled. Setting limits and taking regular breaks can help keep the fun front and centre.