vlts (Video Lottery Terminals)

Video Lottery Terminals (vlts) are electronic gaming machines that are generally placed in bars, lounges, or similar venues in Alberta. They vary from slot machines in the betting and game style, maximum awards and redemption process. They also have some different player features that include requiring players to set a pre-determined time limit on the machine and allowing players to only put a maximum of $100 into the machine during play. Both types of machines remind players that help is available if gambling is affecting their life in a negative way.

Vlts operate randomly. There is a Random Number Generator (RNG) inside each machine, which cycles through millions of numbers continuously. The outcome of a spin is automatically determined by the RNG when you press the spin button. That means it is impossible to predict whether you will win or lose. Some vlt games might offer you bonus games where skill appears to play a factor in the outcome of the bonus prize. However, it is actually all down to chance. No matter what a player’s perceived skill level is, the RNG inside each machine determines the outcome.

It is important to know that vlts are designed for different gaming experiences. For example: a game that may allow you to play for longer and maximizes your time at the machine is very different from a game designed for someone who enjoys a quicker, more aggressive experience when playing.

Vlts are tested and approved by an independent gaming laboratory and must meet stringent technical and operating standards, including verification of the payout percentage, before reaching gaming floors.

All vlts are coinless. Bill acceptors take $5, $10, $20, $50 or $100 bills. The maximum credit that you can insert into a vlt is $100. To play the machines, insert the bill into the bill acceptor. Then select the maximum amount of time from the options available that you wish to play for before you are reminded to take a break. Your options are 15, 30, 45 or 60 minutes. Note, after the selected amount of time has elapsed you will be asked if you would like to cash out or select one of the times again. If a time is selected again you will have to cash out once that amount of time has elapsed.

You can then select how many lines, and how many credits per line, you wish to bet. Some vlts have one credit value and others offer a selection. By pressing the Bet One button, you will wager one credit. By pressing the Max Bet, you will bet the maximum allowed on that machine for each game. Press the Spin button to play. All vlts display the amount won on any given spin.

When you are ready to cash out, press the Cash Out button and you will receive a ticket that is to be validated and paid out. Cash-out tickets under $1,250 are valid for 30 days at the vlt location in which the cash-out ticket was produced. Cash-out tickets greater than $1,250 are valid for 120 days at the vlt location in which the cash-out ticket was produced, or can be redeemed at a designated cross-validation site. See retailer for a list of cross-validation sites.

Vlts pay out a percentage of money played averaged out over millions of spins. The machine will always win in the long run. Vlts are programmed to return to the player, on average, 92% of all money wagered. For example, if you wager $100, your average winnings may be $92 ($100 x 92% = $92).

Vlts are entertainment, and just like dinner and a movie, you should expect to pay for the entertainment. When your entertainment money is spent, it is time to call it a day.