Getting Started
New to advantage play? Follow these 3 simple steps to start playing with an edge.
Understand the Basics
5 min readLearn what advantage play is and how persistent state machines work.
What is Advantage Play?
Advantage play means finding gambling situations where the math is in YOUR favor, not the casino's. It's 100% legal—you're just using publicly visible information to make smart decisions.
Many modern slot machines have "persistent state" features where progress carries over between players. When someone leaves a machine in a good state, the next player can have a positive expected value (+EV).
Two Main Game Types
Jackpots that MUST pay before reaching a certain amount. The closer to the max, the better your odds.
Meters or collected items that build up over time. When they're high enough, you have +EV.
Key insight: You don't need to memorize complex formulas. Our guides tell you the exact thresholds—just check if the machine meets them.
Try the MHB Calculator
3 minUse our Must-Hit-By calculator to see how EV changes at different jackpot values.
MHB Calculator Exercise
Let's see how Expected Value changes as a Must-Hit-By jackpot gets closer to its maximum. Open our calculator and try this example:
Pick Your First Game
Start with one of our beginner-friendly games that are easy to spot in casinos.
We recommend starting with these 3 games. They're common in most casinos, easy to identify, and have straightforward advantage play strategies.
Jin Ji Bao Xi: Rising Fortunes
Clear MHB display, common in casinos, straightforward to spot
Read guide
Dancing Drums
Very popular game, easy-to-read jackpot meters, widely available
Read guide
COIN COMBO
Simple coin accumulation mechanic, visible coin count, beginner-friendly
Read guideQuick Tips for Your First Casino Visit
Scout First
Walk the floor before playing. Check multiple machines to find the best opportunities.
Be Patient
Don't force plays. If nothing meets the threshold, wait. Good opportunities come regularly.
Take Notes
Track your plays. Note which games you find, their values, and your results.
Set a Bankroll
Even +EV plays have variance. Bring enough to handle short-term swings.
Remember
Advantage play gives you an edge, but gambling always involves risk. Short-term variance can still result in losses even with +EV plays. Never gamble more than you can afford to lose.
Ready to Start?
You now have the basics. Pick a game and start your advantage play journey.