How to read a paytable in 60 seconds

Five things to check before your first spin on any new slot.

1. RTP — usually near the bottom of the rules.
2. Max win — e.g. 5,000x. Shows how volatile the game is.
3. Symbol values — how many premiums are there and what do five of a kind pay?
4. Bonus trigger — how many scatters, and what happens in the bonus?
5. Stake range — and whether anything changes at higher stakes.

Once you've done this a few times, it really does take a minute — and you'll never again be surprised by a game that pays far less than you expected.