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

Progressive Slot

Slot Types

A slot machine where a portion of each wager is diverted to increment one or more jackpots that grow over time until won. Progressive slots can be standalone (single machine), linked (multiple machines within a property), or wide-area (machines across multiple properties or jurisdictions). The meter rise — the percentage of each bet added to the progressive pool — is a critical operational parameter. Progressive jackpots reset to a seed amount when won, and the manufacturer or casino operator funds the initial seed. Surveillance should monitor progressive displays to ensure meter accuracy and note any meter malfunctions promptly.

In practice

Megabucks (IGT) is the most famous wide-area progressive in the United States, with jackpots regularly exceeding $10 million.

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.