There is no doubt that many casino game enthusiasts consider progressive jackpots to be one of the most exciting features in casino gaming. This is likely because they offer the chance to win life-changing sums of money from a single spin. But what exactly are progressive jackpots, how do they work, and should you pursue them?


This comprehensive guide will explain what progressive jackpots are, including the various types such as standalone, local, and wide-area progressives. We will also provide real-world examples, including Mega Moolah, Divine Fortune, and Mega Jackpot Wheel, and discuss the pros and cons of chasing these enormous prizes.



What Is a Progressive Jackpot and How Does It Work?


A progressive jackpot is a unique type of top prize that increases over time as players place bets on a game. Every time someone plays a progressive slot or another game with a progressive jackpot, a portion of their wager is added to the jackpot pool. This pool continues to grow until one fortunate player hits the winning combination or bonus to claim the jackpot. The longer a jackpot remains unclaimed, the larger it becomes. As a result, progressive jackpots can vary widely, ranging from modest four-figure amounts to multimillion-dollar prizes, depending on the game and the number of players participating.


Unlike fixed jackpots, which have a set maximum prize, progressive jackpots keep increasing and then reset to a base amount once they are won. For example, a game might reset to $10,000 or $1 million as its starting point after someone wins, and then the jackpot starts to grow again. A small percentage of each bet, often just a few cents, contributes to the jackpot meter, which is usually displayed on the screen, attracting players as it rises higher and higher.



What are the types of Casino Progressive Jackpots?


Not all progressive jackpots are the same; they vary in the number of machines or casinos linked together, influencing how quickly they grow and how large they can become. The main types of progressive jackpots include:


  • Standalone Progressives: These jackpots are tied to a single machine or game. Only the bets on that particular machine contribute to the jackpot, resulting in slower growth and typically smaller jackpot sizes. The advantage, however, is less competition—one lucky player at that machine can hit the jackpot.

  • Local Progressives (In-House): A local progressive connects multiple machines within a single casino or online site. For example, you might find a group of slot machines in a casino that all share the same jackpot, or a selection of games on one online casino contributing to a shared prize pool. These jackpots grow faster and larger than standalone ones because more players are contributing, but are limited to that specific casino or platform.

  • Wide-Area (Network) Progressives: These are the big ones; these are jackpots linked across multiple casinos, states, or even globally online. Wide-area progressives, networked progressives, pool bets from a vast player base, allowing for enormous jackpot sums. A classic example is Megabucks in Las Vegas, which connects machines throughout Nevada and has paid out record-breaking jackpots. Online, games like Mega Moolah link hundreds of casinos together, enabling multi-million dollar wins. While the chances of winning a wide-area jackpot are minimal due to the large number of players competing, the potential prize can be massive.



Here are some Real-World Examples of Progressive Jackpot Games


Below, we have reviewed a few famous progressive jackpot slots and how they illustrate the concepts discussed:


  • Mega Moolah: Arguably the most famous online progressive slot, Mega Moolah (from Microgaming/Games Global) is nicknamed “The Millionaire Maker” for having created more million-dollar winners than any other slot. This game is part of a wide-area progressive jackpot pooled across many online casinos worldwide, with a jackpot that starts at $1 million. Mega Moolah features a bonus Jackpot Wheel that can trigger one of four jackpots: Mini, Minor, Major, and Mega. The Mega Jackpot often reaches tens of millions of dollars before being won, with the highest Mega Moolah win to date exceeding £16 million (around $20 million) in just one spin. Despite its massive payouts, Mega Moolah allows even small bets (e.g., $0.25) to qualify for the jackpot. It's theoretically possible (though extremely unlikely) to win millions with a minimum bet! The trade-off is that the game’s base Return to Player (RTP) is approximately 88%, which is lower than average, because a portion of each bet contributes to those jackpots.

  • Divine Fortune: A popular progressive slot by NetEnt, Divine Fortune features a theme of mythical creatures and offers three jackpots: two smaller fixed jackpots and one progressive Mega Jackpot. Unlike Mega Moolah, Divine Fortune’s progressive jackpot is often local to each casino site. For instance, one casino’s Divine Fortune jackpot might reach $100,000 or even several hundred thousand dollars before being won. It hits more frequently than the mega networked jackpots, making it a favorite among players looking for a chance at a life-changing (if not multi-million) prize with a relatively modest bankroll.Notably, the Mega Jackpot is triggered through a bonus game where collecting special coins can award the Mega Jackpot, even on small stakes. A famous case featured a New Jersey player winning $314,000 on just a $1 bet on Divine Fortune.

  • Mega Jackpot Wheel: This game exemplifies a modern progressive slot that utilizes a spinning wheel bonus to award substantial prizes. In Mega Jackpot Wheel, players spin a giant wheel in hopes of landing on jackpot segments. The game features a progressive jackpot that increases with each bet and can reach astounding amounts. It's known for its engaging, interactive bonus round; when triggered, the anticipation builds as the wheel spins and slows, with players hoping it stops on the Mega Jackpot segment. Mega Jackpot Wheel illustrates how newer jackpot games can make the chase exciting with arcade-style features while still offering the progressive dream of a massive payout on any given spin.



Pros and Cons of Chasing Progressive Jackpots


Chasing progressive jackpots can be thrilling, but it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons:


  • Pros:
  1. Life-Changing Wins: Progressive jackpots can lead to massive payouts, turning small bets into life-altering amounts, like becoming a millionaire from a single spin.
  2. Excitement and Thrill: Watching the jackpot grow creates anticipation with every spin, making gameplay engaging, especially as the prize climbs.
  3. Small Bets, Big Potential: Many progressive games allow wins on minimum bets, giving casual players a chance at substantial prizes.
  4. Community & Mythos: Players share in the collective excitement, often remembering where they were when a jackpot was won, adding to the lore of the game.
  5. Added Entertainment Value: These games often feature bonus rounds and smaller jackpots, providing entertainment beyond just the big win.

  • Cons:
  1. Astronomical Odds: The chances of hitting the top jackpot are incredibly low, similar to winning the lottery, making it a long shot.
  2. Higher Cost & Requirements: To qualify for jackpots, higher bets are often required, which can strain your budget.
  3. Lower Regular Payouts: Progressive slots generally have lower Return to Player (RTP) percentages, leading to less frequent, smaller wins.
  4. Risk of Chasing Losses: The allure of the jackpot can lead to chasing losses, where players keep betting more in hopes of a big win, risking their bankroll.
  5. Long Dry Spells: Major jackpots are rare, leading to extended periods of no significant wins, which can be frustrating for players.




In Conclusion


If you're after that thrilling, once-in-a-lifetime win and don’t mind the low odds, progressives can provide excitement and the chance to become a millionaire. For many, the thrill justifies the occasional play.


However, if you prefer steady gameplay and predictable returns or you're on a budget, progressives might not be the best choice. They often have a lower expected return and high variance, meaning you might have more fun and win more frequently with regular slots or table games.


Treat playing for progressives responsibly, as a fun gamble rather than an investment. Consider allocating just a small portion of your gaming session to them; this way, you can enjoy the thrill while still focusing on other games.


Remember, for every jackpot winner, countless others contributed without winning. It’s essential to enter with realistic expectations. Chase progressives for the entertainment and excitement, but if you don't hit big, you can still have a good time. Who knows? The next spin might just be the one!