Paylines and ways to win
A payline is a specified sequence of positions used to evaluate symbol combinations. “Ways to win” and pay-anywhere systems use different evaluation rules. A five-reel display alone does not tell you how prizes are determined.
Wild and scatter
Wild symbols typically substitute for specified paying symbols but may have exclusions. Scatter symbols usually trigger or pay based on their own conditions. Some games use collect symbols instead. Each title’s rules control the details.
Cascades and tumbling reels
After qualifying wins, symbols can be removed and replaced without starting a new paid spin. The mechanic is sometimes called tumble, cascade or avalanche. Its effect on multipliers and feature rounds varies by game.
Expanding symbols
An expanding wild or special symbol may fill an entire reel or specified positions after triggering. Starburst and Book of Dead illustrate different versions.
Megaways and variable structures
Variable-reel-height systems can produce changing ways to win; the number of possible configurations should never be equated to a guarantee of favorable payouts. Named branded mechanics may be subject to intellectual property rights.
Using the glossary
Read the official paytable first. This glossary defines general ideas, not a contractual description of every individual game. For special features, see free spins explained.