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Casino Terms Glossary
Progressive Prize — is a jackpot that grows with every qualifying bet placed across one or more linked slot machines or online games. Instead of a fixed payout, the prize meter increases until a player hits the winning combination, then resets to a base amount. This casino term signals rare, high‑variance payouts.
Understanding Progressive Prize
In gambling, Progressive Prize meaning refers to a pooled jackpot that accumulates from player wagers in real time. The Progressive Prize definition covers three forms: standalone (one machine), local (same casino network), and wide-area (multiple casinos). Variance is extreme and hits are scarce, so bankroll discipline matters. At 101RTP you’ll find trusted slot reviews, the Slot Simulator, and a Bonus Value Score calculator to test stakes, model outcomes, and pick progressive games and casinos that match your risk profile and understand session length expectations.
Examples of Progressive Prize
Here are common examples of Progressive Prize setups seen in casino slots and online gambling:
- Standalone progressive: only one machine builds the prize; smaller pots and somewhat more frequent jackpot wins.
- Local (in-house) progressive: multiple games in the same casino share a pool; medium jackpots and moderate hit rates.
- Wide-area network (WAN): many casinos or sites link together; multi‑million potential with the lowest hit frequency.
- Must‑hit‑by progressive: the jackpot must drop before a stated cap (e.g., $5,000), creating urgency as the meter nears the ceiling.
- Multi‑level progressives: Mini, Minor, Major, Grand tiers; frequent small prizes and very rare top‑tier wins.
FAQs
What is a Progressive Prize in casino slots?
In casino gambling, a Progressive Prize is a jackpot that increases with each qualifying wager on linked games. A small slice of every bet feeds the meter until someone triggers the win, after which it resets to a seed value. Expect high variance, long droughts, and occasional massive payouts.
How does a Progressive Prize grow and reset?
A Progressive Prize grows when players place bets; providers allocate a tiny contribution (often 1–5%) to the progressive pool. When the required combination or bonus event occurs, the jackpot is awarded instantly and the meter returns to a base amount. Growth speed depends on traffic, bet sizes, and network size.
Can any bet size win a Progressive Prize jackpot?
Rules vary. Some older progressives require max bet or a side wager to be eligible for the top prize. Many modern slots award the Progressive Prize proportionally, so smaller stakes can still win, just with reduced odds or prize weighting. Always check the game’s paytable and casino terms before playing.
Is Progressive Prize the same as a progressive jackpot?
Yes. In most casinos, Progressive Prize is simply another way of saying progressive jackpot. If you’re searching, use both. The Progressive Prize meaning and Progressive Prize definition match the industry’s term for a pooled, ever‑growing jackpot fed by player bets across one or more linked slot games.
Do casino bonuses count toward a Progressive Prize?
Often, no. Many casinos exclude progressive slots from bonus wagering or set a 0% contribution. Some allow play but don’t let progressives clear requirements. Read T&Cs carefully. At 101RTP, our reviews and Bonus Value Score highlight whether a casino’s bonus policy includes or excludes Progressive Prize play and how it counts.
How can I choose a good Progressive Prize game?
Compare jackpot size versus seed value, hit mechanics (random, symbol‑driven, must‑hit‑by), eligible bet sizes, and base‑game RTP. Look for transparent rules and reputable providers. 101RTP lists top casinos and progressive slots, plus tools like the Slot Simulator to test stake plans and understand session volatility before you commit real money.
Why do Progressive Prizes offer such high payouts?
Because thousands of small contributions accumulate across a network while wins are rare. That pooling creates large jackpots but also extreme variance and long losing stretches. The trade‑off is entertainment plus a slim chance at a transformational prize, so set strict bankroll and time limits before chasing a progressive.
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