The best jackpot slots can provide players with opportunities to win potentially big cash prizes. Played in the same way as traditional online slots, these ones come equipped with huge prize pots that can be won in a number of ways. Read on to find out why these titles have gained popularity, how to play them, and what to think about as CasinoTypist answers all.
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Jackpot slots are exactly the same as conventional online slots, but with one major difference: they contain larger cash prizes. They can come in two forms:
A fixed jackpot will feature prizes that are fixed to a certain amount (seed). They will remain at this level throughout and are linked to the size of the bet that you place.
A progressive jackpot differs slightly, as these titles will see the prize pots available increase with each bet that is placed until they are won. A small fraction of each wager that is made across a network will be added to the prize pot until a player triggers it. Once it has been triggered, the prizes will return to their original seed and begin to increase once again.
Prize pots can reach significant amounts, with many able to reach €1 million or more. The largest jackpot prizes are often accrued when playing a title across a pooled network. Still, it is possible to find ‘local’ jackpots, which can still produce large amounts for those lucky enough to trigger them.
While classic slots have a long history and date back to the late 19th century, jackpot slots are relatively new in comparison. Technology has played an increasing role in creating these innovative games, as we continue to experience positive changes to this very day regarding this type of game.
Key milestones included the 1891 Sittman & Pitt poker machine, Liberty Bell (first true slot machine) by Charles Fey in 1895, and fruit machines in the early 20th century. Video slots were introduced in 1976, when Fortune Coin used television monitors to provide visuals to players.
The first notable example of a progressive jackpot slot was in 1986, when IGT released its ‘Megabucks’ system. This would link multiple machines to create cumulatively larger prize pools. Still, the online revolution had yet to start.
In 1994, Microgaming launched the first online slots after Antigua and Barbuda launched regulatory licensing. Since then, technology has been consistently used to improve the quality of jackpot slots. These games have been implemented with bonus features, while innovations have helped to create new networks and pools in which prizes can be won.
Many stories have been told about how people have been fortunate to win life-changing sums of money from playing the best jackpot slots. While only a very few ever achieve outcomes like this, these tales are what make these games so appealing to players.
The ‘Megabucks’ jackpot slot game is one of the most notable when it comes to playing in land-based casinos, with the largest thought to be a sum of $39.7 million (approximately €33.87 million) (Excalibur, Las Vegas, 21 March 2003). In 2000, Cynthia Jay-Brennan won $34.9 million (€29.77 million) playing the same game. Still, tragedy struck as she was left paralyzed following a car accident six weeks later (which claimed her sister).
Playing online and one of the jackpot slot games recognized globally, a player managed to win $24 million (€20.47 million) in 2013 playing NetEnt’s ‘Mega Fortune’ title. They are claimed to have won the jackpot by placing a $0.25 (€0.20) spin while waiting to play another poker game.
Games like Mega Moolah, Major Millions, Arabian Nights, and Mega Fortune regularly generate multi-million euro cashouts for players, enhancing the popularity of jackpot slots.
Jackpot slot games work in a similar fashion to traditional video slots. They use many of the same mechanics and features, albeit with some slightly different alterations, where the jackpot element of the game is concerned.
The main mechanic used in a jackpot game is a random number generator (RNG). This algorithm determines the result of each spin, independent of any other. They are used in both land-based and online slot machines, as they ensure fairness, unpredictability, and independence from previous spins, making every result random. RNGs are audited and tested regularly to ensure fairness, with the best jackpot slots having been reviewed regularly by independent bodies to ensure they can be trusted.
An RNG will continuously generate random numbers thousands of times per second, even when a player is not making spins. Each random number corresponds to a specific reel position or symbol. When you hit the spin button, the most recent random number is selected and translated into the symbol combination shown on the reels.
Depending on the type of jackpot game being played, the prize pot can grow in different ways.
As defined earlier, fixed jackpots are set at a specific prize amount. These will not change when the game is played and can be fixed to the size of the stake that is placed. Once the jackpot is won, it will remain available.
Progressive jackpots are slightly different. These jackpots will increase with each bet that is placed, with a small portion being added to the pot until it is won. These prize pots can increase significantly as they are typically linked to a network. Usually, the network is software provider-related, meaning all spins made across the games on the network are added to the prize pot. Alternatively, there are prize pots that are ‘local’, which means they are attached to the casino.
Should the jackpot in a progressive title be triggered, the prize pots will restart and begin to increase once again. Values can go well into the millions in these games.
Triggering the jackpot can depend on the title that is played. Three typical methods are commonplace across the casino industry:
Most games will trigger the jackpot randomly. Players will often be unaware of whether they have triggered the jackpot prize until it happens. These games can be more popular because of their unpredictable nature. There isn’t anything a player can do to influence the triggering of a jackpot; they simply need a bit of luck on their side.
Some games will allow you to trigger the top prizes by activating a bonus round or by creating combinations across a payline. These titles will often feature specific jackpot symbols (scatters) and require a specific combination to fall. For example, a game may require you to land 3+ symbols to activate the bonus feature, while others may require the grid to be filled with them.
You can find out how the jackpot of a particular game is triggered by checking out the information available in the game’s settings and rules.
Looking for the top jackpot slots to enjoy after learning about them? CasinoTypist has identified 10 of the big win slots that are available to play, with each of them being recommended for various reasons…
Mega Moolah is arguably the most popular choice for players seeking online slot jackpots. Created by Microgaming (Games Global), the initial title was launched in 2006 and has had several variants released since then.
The game has become hugely popular due to its simple gameplay and graphics, which combine simplistic cartoon-like visuals with an African safari theme. You’ll find many animals that are synonymous with the African savanna, such as elephants, giraffes, and lions.
The main attraction is the inclusion of its four-tier progressive jackpot system. These are known as ‘Mini’, ‘Minor’, ‘Major’, and ‘Mega’. The ‘Mega’ jackpot can seed from €1 million, making it a potentially lucrative game to win from.
In 2015, British soldier Jon Heywood won £13.2 million ($20.1 million/€17.15 million) playing Mega Moolah online, one of the largest online slot jackpots ever recorded. On August 20, 2025, a player in Sweden managed to win over 146m SEK (€13 million), with it being the fifth time the ‘Mega’ jackpot had been hit in the year.
Divine Fortune is one of the all-time popular progressive jackpot slots developed by NetEnt, themed around ancient Greek mythology. The game features 5 reels and 20 paylines, offering players three jackpots: two fixed and one progressive - ‘Rapid’, ‘Major’, and ‘Mega’. These can be won by achieving the following:
It includes exciting bonus features such as falling wilds and a free spins round, where all wins are multiplied by 3. The game's jackpot slot RTP is around 96.59%, making it an attractive option for players seeking both jackpots and solid winning potential.
If you want to enjoy and play jackpot slots online that aren’t as big as others, Playtech’s Jackpot Giant might be worth considering. It features a prehistoric theme with simple yet engaging gameplay. The slot offers five reels, and players can enjoy frequent smaller jackpot wins alongside a progressive jackpot.
With several bonus features available to enjoy in this title, the jackpot can be triggered when you match five wilds across the game’s reels. It’s a medium-variance game, and the jackpot slot RTP rate is on the low side (94.22%), which highlights why it isn’t quite as popular as others or why there haven’t been many big wins to have been reported. Still, it’s a quality game that can provide entertainment.
Wheel of Wishes can be classified as one of the mega jackpot slots in terms of what can be won, with prize pots potentially worth millions of euros available. However, the jackpot slot RTP rate of 93.34% does make this a game where players must manage their expectations.
Still, Alchemy Gaming’s Wheel of Wishes slot title can offer players plenty of entertainment. It is part of the WowPot jackpot network, making the progressive jackpot aspect attractive. You can pay to trigger the ‘Power Spin’ feature, which is a free spins game. Once activated, this can greatly increase your chances of activating the jackpot bonus game that must be played to win.
Hall of Gods is a Norse mythology-themed progressive jackpot slot by NetEnt, launched in 2010. Featuring 5 reels and 20 paylines, the game offers high volatility and the jackpot slot’s RTP of approximately 95.7%.
It includes exciting features such as expanding wilds, free spins with multipliers, and a bonus game triggered by Thor’s Hammer symbols. Players smash shields in the bonus game to reveal coin prizes or one of three jackpots: ‘Mini’, ‘Midi’, or ‘Mega’.
Hall of Gods has produced numerous multi-million euro jackpot winners, notably a €7.8 million win by a Norwegian player. The game's atmospheric soundtrack and thematic design enhance the immersive experience, making this one of the best online slot jackpots to play.
Playtech has launched several titles in this series because of its popularity, but the Age of the Gods online slot remains one of its best. Many continue to play this as part of their progressive jackpot slots rotation, with the game offering an incredible visual experience, especially to those who are fans of Greek mythology.
The game features a standard 5x3 playing grid and consists of 20 paylines, creating several opportunities for players to win. The RTP is slightly below the average at 95.02%, but does feature a medium volatility rate, which may appeal to certain players.
The availability of four different free spins games makes this game highly attractive, but none more so than the inclusion of a mystery jackpot round. Ranking as one of the top jackpot slots, Age of the Gods requires players to simply continue playing to be in with a chance of winning. Any spin can randomly trigger a jackpot being paid out, with each of them linked to every title in the series.
As noted already, one player managed to win $24 million (€20.47 million) in 2013 playing NetEnt’s ‘Mega Fortune’ title. It’s what has made this one of the world’s most favourite progressive jackpot slots and why so many continue to enjoy it; evident by the fact that the prize can often be greater than €2 million.
The game’s theme is based on being among the rich and famous, which is something winners of this title can go on to achieve. You’ll find symbols related to things that the 1% can enjoy, with many luxuries appearing on the paytable. Still, win the jackpot in this one, and they can be affordable.
Mega Fortune is a simple game to enjoy, which is why it ranks as one of the top jackpot slots around. It’s played on a traditional 5x3 playing grid, with bets available from €0.25. You can trigger the Mega Fortune Bonus game, which will allow you to play for one of three progressive jackpots on offer.
Another Microgaming release, Major Millions is a progressive jackpot slot game that can provide life-changing sums of money to those who are fortunate and have luck on their side. Released in 2009, it has gone on to produce several winners, with players required to land five wild symbols on the 15th payline.
Given that it was released over 15 years ago, the game is a little dated. Major Millions is based on a war theme and is quite basic in terms of its features. It has a jackpot RTP rate of just 89.37%, which is very low compared to many other options, while the graphics aren’t anything special. Still, many continue to play it.
Another downside to the game could be the fact that the maximum bet must be wagered for the five wild symbols to land. This can mean that spins of €3 must be made each time. However, jackpots can regularly reach large amounts.
Atlantean Treasures has been equipped with the Mega Moolah network, allowing players to potentially win significant prizes when it is triggered. A Microgaming release, it features the traditional four progressive jackpots that are associated with the Mega Moolah franchise.
It is a simple game that is played across a grid that consists of five reels, three rows, and 10 paylines. It features special bonus aspects like expanding wild respins, helping to add further excitement when you play jackpot slots online like this one.
Bets are available from as low as €0.10 per spin, which is favorable when the RTP rate is just 92.08%; a little disappointing given it was released in 2020. Still, this underwater-themed slot is highly enjoyable and can offer some big win potential, with the ‘Mega’ jackpot often exceeding €2 million.
The Book of Atem WowPot is another to have been released by Microgaming, with All41 Studios the main brains behind this release. It incorporates the WowPot progressive jackpot network, meaning players who play the mega jackpot slots in this series have the ability to win from one of four on offer.
The largest prize (‘WowPot!’) can often exceed €2 million in terms of prize total, with the ‘Major’ starting from €50,000. The progressive jackpot can be triggered when players land at least one Book Symbol during the main game or the bonus round. However, this doesn’t guarantee it will be activated; it just offers an opportunity. In addition, if you land three or more Book symbols, you will trigger the free spins bonus round, where 10 free spins and a randomly selected symbol that can be expanded will be awarded.
Still, the Book of Atem WowPot title attracts players worldwide, with its immersive and entertaining theme. The game is based on the same design as the original title in the series, using the Ancient Egyptian theme to help create a story that keeps players going. It is worth noting that the RTP is 93.5%, which is quite appealing compared to other options available.
To choose the right jackpot slot for you, we suggest you follow the five-step process that our CasinoTypist experts follow when they play the top jackpot slots consistently..
The game’s return-to-player (RTP) rate should be checked. The industry average is around 96%, although the rate for the jackpot can be significantly lower. This is a theoretical rate, so use it as guidance and not as an absolute.
You should also check out the jackpot volatility of the game when deciding which titles to play. ‘High’ volatility can mean fewer wins, but they are larger in size. In contrast, ‘Low’ volatility means more frequent wins but smaller in size.
Jackpot slots don’t require big bets to be made to trigger the top prizes. Simply check out what the minimum bet is and stick to it as good responsible gambling practices. Enjoy those that fit your budget and won’t impact your bankroll too quickly.
The game’s theme can have an incredible influence over how enjoyable a jackpot slot is. Finding one that suits your tastes and preferences can help you enjoy more positive experiences. Several themes are available when playing the best jackpot slots.
Do you want to play progressive jackpots on mobile? Find a title that is compatible with your preferred device to enjoy seamless sessions whenever you want. By following the five-step guide to choosing the right jackpot slots to play, you’ll be able to obtain far better and more entertaining experiences than diving straight in and hoping for the best.
What are the main differences between progressive jackpots and fixed jackpots? We’ve created a comparison chart that outlines many of them below, so you have a full understanding of them:
Feature | Progressive Jackpots | Fixed Jackpots |
Jackpot Size | Grows with every wager until won; can reach millions | Set prize amount; fixed and does not change |
Volatility | High volatility; bigger but less frequent wins | Lower volatility; smaller but more frequent wins |
Hit Frequency (Top Prize) | Rare to hit due to the large prize pool | More frequent hits compared to progressive jackpots |
Contribution from Bets | Part of each bet contributes to the growing jackpot | No contribution; fixed prize independent of bets |
Transparency/Predictability | Jackpot is unpredictable; it varies constantly | Prize amount known in advance; fully predictable |
Appeal to Players | Attracts jackpot chasers looking for huge wins | Appeals to casual players preferring steady, known payouts |
Base Game Features | Often features bonus rounds or complex mechanics | Usually simpler gameplay with less emphasis on bonuses |
RTP (Return to Player) Impact | RTP can be lower due to the jackpot portion | Usually has a higher RTP, as the jackpot is not deducted |
Risk Level | Higher risk due to jackpot volatility | Lower risk; steadier gameplay experience |
The table above should help you to make a decision about which type of jackpot game is best for you and your playing style.
Many myths and misconceptions surround jackpot slots. These are thoughts, statements, and claims that have been made in the past and have been shared around. Many can fall into a trap and begin to believe them, which can be detrimental to their overall gambling experiences.
At CasinoTypist, we want you to know as much as possible, with an emphasis on the truth. Below, we highlight some of the most common myths and misconceptions, debunking them so you don’t make mistakes based on things that have been shared in the past.
A common misconception about jackpot slots is that they can be “hot” or “cold”. This refers to the opinion that some believe some titles are better than others (i.e., pay out more frequently), whereas others are worth avoiding (i.e., don’t pay out that often). Some even suggest that it is worth waiting for titles to “warm up” before playing them to enhance their win potential.
The reality is that this is nonsense. As detailed above, all slots use RNG algorithms, making it impossible for games to get “hot” or be “colder” than others. The algorithm ensures fairness through its ability to create random outcomes, all of which are unpredictable and independent of any previous spin. RNGs do not follow a cycle or retain a memory of previous results.
While some games of chance can be influenced when specific strategies are used (blackjack, poker, etc), slots are entirely based on pure luck. Again, given that games are managed by using RNGs, there is nothing that a player can do to influence the outcome of a spin.
With that said, betting strategies can be deployed when playing jackpots, specifically those related to money and wagering. For instance, players should adopt strategies that protect their bankroll by playing with small betting stakes. Jackpots can still be triggered in their entirety when small stakes are placed, with the RNG having no say on the outcome regarding what bet amount has been wagered.
While it’s no secret that online casinos aren’t going to be happy to see prizes of a jackpot amount be won by players and taken out of their coffers, there have been instances where it happens. Indeed, the RNGs used ensure that games cannot be “rigged” in a casino’s favour and prevent the big prizes from being won.
Slot games do have an enhanced house edge when they involve a jackpot, but that doesn’t make it impossible for a player to win the top prizes. Independent auditors test all games for fairness and legitimacy; if they weren’t up to standard, they wouldn’t be allowed to be made available.
Players should only use trusted casinos to play the best games. Casinos that hold active, globally accepted licenses are the best options, as they will offer players protection. Protections can include ensuring games are legitimate and fair, using RNGs that have been checked and verified by independent bodies. Other protections may involve providing players with safety if something goes wrong regarding the game, while offering assistance when issues arise.
It’s also worth checking out the casino’s payment terms and conditions, including what they state should a jackpot prize be won. How quickly can the funds be received? What options are available to players, etc?
To help you find the sites that can be trusted to play the best jackpot slots, we’ve partnered with some of the best options available. With these options, you will have access to some quality bonuses that can be used, while also having access to vast game libraries featuring classic jackpots to the latest releases!
As highlighted in the ‘Milestone Wins and Record-Breaking Jackpots’ section, there have been many notable wins that have made headlines around the world. Naturally, many of these stories have had an influential impact on the popularity of jackpot slots, with many dreaming of being another to have their own remarkable story.
The 2003 win, worth $39.7 million (approximately €33.87 million), is thought to be the largest to have ever been won. A 25-year-old software engineer, who was thought to be from Los Angeles, was playing at Excalibur in Las Vegas when they landed the huge prize playing ‘Megabucks’. It is claimed that they had spent just $100 (€85) playing the game before the jackpot was triggered.
Cynthia Jay-Brennan’s life changed drastically after she won a huge jackpot prize, although not for positive reasons. A former cocktail waitress in Las Vegas, the then 37-year-old would win $34.9 million (€29.77 million) in 2000 playing the ‘Megabucks’ game, having played with just $27 (€23) at the old Desert Inn (before it was demolished and the Wynn Las Vegas was built).
The story is that she would end up getting married to her fiance a few weeks later and going on honeymoon to Fiji. However, tragedy would strike a few months later. Having won in January, she was involved in a car crash in March, which saw her sister killed and her being left paralyzed from the waist down following an accident by a drunk driver when stationary at a red light.
In 1998, a 67-year-old Las Vegas resident managed to hit the jackpot while waiting for dinner at the Palace Station Casino. The anonymous retired flight attendant had decided to play ‘Megabucks’, initially planning to spend $100 (€85); she would ultimately spend $300 (€256).
It paid off, as she would walk away with a prize of $27.6 million (€23.5 million), setting her up for life with a pretty retirement fund. However, it wasn’t her first brush with lady luck being on her side, as she had won $680,000 (€580,000) on ‘Wheel of Fortune’ a few months earlier.
Staking $0.25 per spin (€0.20), a Finnish player managed to win a jackpot worth $24 million (€20.47 million) playing the ‘Mega Fortune’ slot game online. Not much is known about the player, but the man, aged 40+, did win it in 2013.
A Belgian player had won a huge $23.6 million (€19.4 million) jackpot prize online when playing NetEnt’s ‘Absolutely Mad Mega Moolah’ jackpot game in 2021. The Mega Moolah progressive jackpot chain of slots is known to pay out fairly regularly, historically, when it comes to large jackpots, with this win being recognized by the Guinness World Records as the largest jackpot payout in an online slot.
Given the inclusion of RNGs, the outcomes of big win slots cannot be influenced by anything a player does directly. However, that doesn’t mean that they cannot practice responsible gambling techniques and use certain strategies to ensure safe play is achieved.
Players should look to adopt the following methods:
As highlighted previously, the likelihood of a jackpot being triggered is not dependent on the size of the bet made. Many of the biggest wins that have been achieved in history have been recorded by players making the smallest wager possible.
It’s arguably the best strategy for players to adopt, as it will help them to manage their bankroll and ensure they stick to budgets. Playing with larger bets can produce bigger wins when playing, but they will not influence the RNG to trigger the jackpot any more than a smaller bet will.
Jackpot slot games can deplete your bankroll incredibly quickly. With spins taking seconds to complete, it can be very easy for players to keep hitting the button and spend a significant amount inside a minute or two of gameplay.
Players must ensure they stay in control and remain disciplined with their bets. Playing with the smallest stakes is best, while taking breaks can also be advisable. It can be very easy to want to chase losses; however, taking breaks and realizing what’s happening can help individuals to potentially stop spending more on the game than they initially wanted to.
It can be advisable to mix up your gameplay sessions and not focus on one singular title. Most online casinos will offer the best big win slots as part of their game libraries. Indeed, if they are by the same software provider, progressive jackpots will be on the same network, meaning the same prize can be on offer.
Changing up the game can bring a fresh perspective to the session. This can allow players to take a step back, remain in control, and not lose sight of what they are doing. It can also help keep the entertainment going, especially when a game offers a frustrating experience that leads to poor decisions.
There are two approaches to the idea about whether you should play jackpot slots at certain times:
Players may be more in control or have greater discipline depending on the time that they play Mega Jackpot slots. For example, if they play in the morning or at lunch, they may be more aware of what they are doing, allowing them to make better decisions. If they play at night before bed, they may be tired, which can lead to poor decision-making, such as excessive gaming, large bets, or chasing losses.
However, it’s important to remember that it doesn’t matter when a game is played in terms of the payout chances. The RNG used doesn’t consider time as an aspect in terms of its payout rate. You will have a similar chance of winning at midday as you would at midnight or in the early hours of the day. Still, playing at a certain time can be more beneficial mentally for an individual.
The best mobile casinos will feature mobile apps that will allow you to play jackpot slots online. Online sites can be accessed as standalone downloads or through your mobile web browser. If you want to play while on the go and have convenience, these sites are recommended, as they provide seamless gameplay experiences.
Many of the options listed here at CasinoTypist will have an app available, although all can be accessed by a mobile web browser. We’ve reviewed many of them for their mobile compatibility within our reviews as part of our tests, ensuring you receive insight into what can be expected when used.
Desktop gaming is perfectly fine for those who wish to play on a laptop or traditional PC. Internet connections can be more stable, while screens can be a lot bigger in terms of size. However, with mobile gaming on the rise and widely popular, it’s certainly worth playing at a mobile casino that allows online slot jackpots to be enjoyed whenever desired.
Jackpot slot games can be worth playing, although it may depend on a player’s preference. Those who want the opportunity to win the biggest prizes possible should consider these games, especially those that are categorised as progressive jackpot slots.
These big win slots can provide life-changing amounts of money; however, it’s essential to recognize that they don't guarantee a player's success. If anything, they can be riskier than conventional slots due to the variance in RTP rates. Jackpot volatility can also have an influence, making it important for players to weigh up whether they are right for their playing style or not.
When you play jackpot slots online, you should always consider the things we’ve highlighted above. You should also think about how you want to play and what your bankroll and budget allow. Remember, it is important to stick to betting strategies that are designed to keep you protected and ensure you play responsibly. This may involve placing small bets to prolong gameplay, while also taking breaks to reduce poor decision-making.
While the top jackpot slots can offer you the possibility of winning life-changing sums of money, as others have been documented to do, it’s important to manage expectations. Never go into a session expecting to win. Games are supposed to be a form of entertainment, not a means of making money; any wins obtained are a bonus.
If you’re ready to play the best jackpot slots, we highly recommend visiting one (or more) of the sites that CasinoTypist has listed. If you do, you’ll be able to benefit from some of the betting sites that offer a trusted experience, ensuring you’re protected due to the licenses that are held.
Jackpot slots are online slots that provide players with the opportunity to win large prize pots. They are an additional feature that separates them from classic slots.
It can depend on the type of jackpot slot game that is played. You may need to land a specific symbol or create a combination to trigger a bonus round. Alternatively, there are many slots that can see the jackpot be activated on a random spin, allowing you to claim the prize at any time.
There are two types of jackpot slots available to play. You can either play a fixed jackpot (where the prize available stays the same) or you can play a title that contains a progressive jackpot. This will see the prize increase with each bet placed until it is won. Once it is, it will reset and begin to climb again.
Online bingo is a popular game played by bettors around the world. The main goal of the game is to mark off numbers on a card and complete a line or a full
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