Part I: Games & Gaming · Slot Machines & Electronic Gaming

Must-Hit-By Progressive

Progressive Systems

A type of progressive jackpot that is mathematically guaranteed to pay out before reaching a predetermined maximum value (the “must-hit-by” amount). When the progressive resets after a hit, a random trigger point is selected (uniformly distributed between the reset amount and the must-hit-by maximum). The jackpot increases with each wager via the meter rise, and when the accumulated total crosses the hidden trigger point, the jackpot awards to the player whose wager caused the crossing. Must-hit-by progressives create intense player interest as the jackpot approaches its ceiling, with advantage players monitoring meter positions to identify positive-expected-value opportunities.

In practice

Also known as “mystery jackpots.” Ainsworth and WMS are prominent manufacturers of must-hit-by progressives. The WMS version uses a unique meter-rise mechanism based on amount won rather than amount bet. Surveillance should monitor for advantage players who track must-hit-by meters.

One entry from the Casino Industry Glossary — 1,157 terms written for surveillance, compliance and operations professionals rather than for players. Definitions describe industry usage; where a term carries a regulatory meaning, verify against the instrument that governs your jurisdiction.