Gaming machines are characterized by high game speed, fast winnings, and high availability

What is a gaming machine?

A gaming machine is a machine that allows people to play with money at stake. Slot machines are one example of a gaming machine. When playing on slot machines with a chance to win, the player wins with a certain combination of symbols by three or more reels. The profit depends entirely on chance. The average hourly loss permitted by law is 60 euros. Slot machines are available in online casinos too like gclub. Slot machines offer the potential of winning huge cash.

Game bet & payout

The stake is at least € 0.20 up to a maximum of € 2.30. The exact payout ratio on the gaming machines is not regulated by law. Payout ratios of between 60% and 80% can be assumed, which means that 20% to 40 % of all money stakes flow to the operators and the vending machine industry.

Availability / distribution

From January 1, 2020, arcades will also be regulated under gaming law in accordance with the 3rd GlüÄndStV. However, the regulations differ in the individual federal states. Gaming halls can be open for a maximum of 21 hours a day. This very high availability contributes significantly to addiction potential. In order to counteract gambling addiction, opening hours in the early morning hours should be rejected so that, for example, players cannot play before they start working. The lack of a comprehensive locking system also contributes to the great addiction potential of gaming machines, because players can switch to other arcades if they are blocked. Gaming machines are also extremely readily available in the catering sector due to their spread.

Very high risk of addiction to slot machines

Due to the fast game sequence (a few seconds) and so-called fast or near wins, gaming machines have a very high risk of addiction. Fast or near wins are generated by, for example, stopping the third reel with the missing correct symbol just before. This gives the player the feeling that he almost won. This increases the incentive to continue playing. In addition, profits can be reinvested immediately, so they have a short payout interval. Sound and light effects increase the game’s appeal. These factors increase, among other things, the risk of becoming addicted to gambling.

All in all, gaming machines with the opportunity to win have a high risk potential . It is not uncommon for an addiction to occur! About 80 percent of those who seek treatment for gambling addiction play on gaming machines with a chance of winning. Experts also estimate that about 56 percent of gaming device revenue comes from people with a gambling addiction, and 40 percent of those who play on it are said to be addicted.