May 20, 2025, 12:00
Every time you press “Spin,” it's all about one thing: how do the symbols fall? And just as important: on which lines do they fall? In this blog we dive into the principle of paylines. We explain how they work, what types exist, whether more lines automatically means more winnings and how to optimize your chances at PepperMill Casino.
A payline is a predetermined line on which symbols must appear to form a winning combination. These lines usually run from left to right and they can run straight, diagonally or zig-zag across the reels.
In classic slots with three reels, there is often only one line, straight down the middle. But in modern dice slots, this can add up to dozens, hundreds or even thousands of lines.
Fixed win lines: you always play with the same number of lines, regardless of your bet. This type is common in classic dice slots and ensures consistent action.
Adjustable paylines: some slots let you decide how many lines you play with. Fewer lines means lower stakes, but also fewer chances to win.
Cluster pays: instead of lines, these revolve around symbols adjacent to each other in groups (clusters). Known from games such as Sugar Rush Dice, among others.
Cascading reels / Avalanche: after a win, the winning symbols disappear and new ones fall down, providing additional chances to win, you do not have to make a new bet for this. Gates of PepperMill is the best known game with this feature.
More paylines do indeed mean more chances of getting a winning combination, but there are a few caveats:
Your bet is usually divided by the number of active lines. 20 lines at €0.20 means €0.01 per line.
Payouts per combination may be lower with many lines. You may win more often, but the winnings may be smaller.
More lines do make for more exciting gameplay and more bonus opportunities. Especially in slots with features such as wilds, multipliers or scatters.
The outcome of all games is completely random because of the RNG. More paylines do give you more ways to form a winning combination, but this does not automatically mean you will win more.
Some slots ban profit lines completely. Consider games with “243 ways to win” such as Fakir Dice Slot, where any combination of three or more equal symbols counts from left to right, regardless of their position on the reel. This creates a new dynamic and makes for fast-paced action.
Play with the maximum number of lines: this increases your chances of getting a winning combination on every spin.
Check the bet amount per line: your total bet is divided among the lines. The more lines, the lower the bet per line.
Experiment with different types of slots: try games with fixed lines, adjustable lines, cascading reels or cluster pays to discover what suits you best.
Also pay attention to the features: free spins, sticky symbols, bonus games or multipliers can greatly increase your winnings.
Always read the paytable: here you can see how much each combination yields and which symbols are worth the most.
Use the demo mode: test for free how a game works and how the lines run, without risking your balance.
Whether you like fixed lines, giant clusters or popping cascades, it pays to know how a slot pays out. Understanding how paylines work will help you choose the right game and optimize your betting strategy.