Ask the Slot Expert: Comps for slot play

Does a slot machine give you a higher point and comp return for betting 80 penny credits than it does for betting 40 credits? Does playing dollar and 50-cent machines pay more comp credits and point credits than my 40-cent bet on a penny machine?

I say it doesn't matter; it is based on the value of the bet and speed you play.

The rate at which you earn points and comps is usually the same no matter how much you bet or the denomination of the machine you play. That is, it might take $10 played through a machine to earn a point. The more you bet per spin, the more quickly you can play $10, so the more quickly you earn points. It doesn't matter what slot machine you play, just how much you play.

Notice I wrote "slot machine" in that last sentence. Video poker machines typically require more play through them than a slot machine to earn a point.

Speed doesn't really enter into the equation, except in the sense that the faster you play, the more bets you make in a given time period, so the faster you earn points. It isn't the case that the faster player will have to play fewer dollars to earn a point.

In short, points and comps are based on total action.

My question is about comps: Do you know if one accrues comps while playing bonus rounds or receiving bonus spins if the comps are based on how much you spend? Since you are not really “spending” money during that time period, are you still earning comps? And if so, what are they based on during the bonus round or free spins?

Comps are based on the action you give. If you earn a point for every dollar you play and you make a three-dollar bet on a spin on a video slot, you earn three points as soon as you start the spin. You don't really earn anything during the spin, no matter how long it takes to conclude. You earn the comps once you've made the bet.

Because you're not making additional bets during a bonus round, you're not earning additional comps -- but you are enjoying the spin from your most recent bet and you did earn comps from that bet.

To repeat the conclusion from the prior letter, points and comps are based on total action.

How can I beat video keno?

You could try a whisk.

At best, you'll get some stares. At worst, you'll get escorted out of the casino.

Send your slot and video poker questions to John Robison, Slot Expert™, at slotexpert@slotexpert.com. Because of the volume of mail I receive, I regret that I can't reply to every question.

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