Short definition
A large prize pool that can be fixed or progressively accumulating — the latter grows with every bet until someone wins it.
A jackpot is a game's largest prize pool. A fixed jackpot is always the same size, whereas a progressive jackpot grows with every bet until a player wins it and the pool resets.
Progressive jackpots can reach millions, but the odds of winning them are small. A jackpot is often tied to a specific bet level or bonus feature.
Find the best jackpot games and biggest progressive prizes at jackpot casinos. See also the progressive jackpot.
What jackpot growth really means
Suppose a game directs 1% of every bet to the jackpot. A €1 bet adds €0.01 to the pot. For the pot to grow by €1,000,000, players must wager €1,000,000 ÷ 0.01 = €100,000,000 in total. This shows why big jackpots grow only from the bets of many players, and why a single player's chance is very small.
Why you cannot wait a jackpot out
Every spin is independent of the previous one and the outcome is set by a random number generator. A large pot does not mean the jackpot is "due", and a small pot does not mean it was hit recently. That thinking is the gambler's fallacy. The only thing you control is how much you wager: play within your bankroll and do not chase a win after losses.
What to check before playing
- whether winning the jackpot requires a specific minimum bet or a bonus feature, as stated on the game's info page;
- whether the jackpot is fixed or progressive (local or networked);
- how much of the game's RTP goes to the jackpot and how much to ordinary wins;
- whether the casino's withdrawal limit also applies to a big win; see withdrawal limits.
Jackpot games usually have very high volatility: a long dry spell is normal. If the dream of a jackpot makes your bets larger than you planned, take a break and, if needed, ask for help at the Gambling Addiction Counselling Centre. General background on the term is at Wikipedia: Jackpot.
Related and sources
See also: jackpot casinos, progressive jackpot. Source: Progressive jackpot (Wikipedia).
“Example: a progressive jackpot grows with every player’s bet. When the network pool reaches €1,000,000 and someone wins it, the accumulation starts again from zero.
1. Fixed
The win amount is always the same, regardless of other players.
2. Progressive
The pool grows with every bet, often across a network of several casinos.
3. Trigger
The jackpot fires randomly or on a certain symbol combination.
4. Terms
Some jackpots require a maximum bet or a specific bonus game.
Fixed, progressiveTypes
Grows with every betProgressive
Small, the win largeProbability
Do I have to bet maximum to win a jackpot?
For some games yes — the full jackpot only unlocks at the maximum bet. Always read the game's rules before playing.
Does a large jackpot mean a better chance of winning?
No. A large pool doesn’t change the winning chance. Progressive jackpots have a rare win but a large amount.
21+ Gambling is intended for players aged 21 and over only. A fast withdrawal does not make gambling a safe source of income. Only play with money you can afford to lose. If needed, set self-limits or seek help:
responsible gambling.
