What is a Progressive Jackpot?
A Progressive Jackpot is a type of casino jackpot that grows continuously as players place wagers.
A small percentage of each bet is added to the jackpot pool, causing the prize value to increase until a player triggers the winning condition.
Progressive jackpots are known for offering some of the largest payouts in gambling, often reaching extremely high values due to long periods without a winner.
Once the jackpot is won, it typically resets to a predefined base amount and begins growing again.
How Progressive Jackpots work
Each time a player places a qualifying wager, a portion of that bet contributes to the progressive jackpot.
The contribution rate is set by the game provider and is factored into the game’s overall payout structure.
Progressive jackpots can be standalone, linked within a single game, or shared across multiple games and casinos.
In linked systems, wagers from many players simultaneously increase the same jackpot pool.
Types of Progressive Jackpots
Progressive jackpots can be categorized based on their structure.
Local progressives are limited to a single game or casino, while network or wide-area progressives connect multiple games or platforms.
Some games also feature multi-tier progressive jackpots, where players can win different jackpot levels such as Mini, Minor, Major, or Grand.
Progressive Jackpots and winning probability
Because progressive jackpots offer very large prizes, the probability of winning them is usually much lower than that of fixed or lower-tier jackpots.
Winning often requires a rare event, such as landing a specific symbol combination or activating a special bonus feature.
This low probability is balanced by the potential for a life-changing payout, which is the primary appeal of progressive jackpot games.
Impact on RTP and volatility
Progressive jackpots affect a game’s volatility by increasing the potential payout range.
Games with progressive jackpots tend to be high volatility, as wins are infrequent but can be extremely large.
The contribution to the progressive jackpot is included in the game’s theoretical RTP, even though most players will not experience the jackpot win.
Progressive Jackpots in online and crypto gambling
In online and crypto gambling, Progressive Jackpots function in the same way as in traditional casino games.
Some crypto-based platforms combine progressive jackpots with transparent or provably fair systems, allowing players to verify individual outcomes.
While transparency can increase trust, it does not change the fundamental mechanics or odds associated with progressive jackpots.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does a Progressive Jackpot increase?
A small portion of each qualifying wager is added to the jackpot pool, causing it to grow over time.
Are Progressive Jackpots harder to win?
Yes, they usually have a much lower win probability due to their high payout potential.
What happens after a Progressive Jackpot is won?
The jackpot resets to a predefined base amount and starts increasing again.
Are Progressive Jackpots included in RTP calculations?
Yes, contributions to the progressive jackpot are included in the game’s overall RTP.
Can Progressive Jackpots be shared across multiple games?
Yes, some progressive jackpots are linked across multiple games or casinos.
Do crypto casinos offer Progressive Jackpots?
Yes, many crypto casinos offer Progressive Jackpot games similar to traditional online casinos.