Why Do People Tap The Slot Machine Screen?
If you’ve ever visited a land-based casino, you may have noticed some players tapping the screen of a slot machine as the reels spin. It’s a small, repeated action that often draws attention, especially to those who are unfamiliar with how slot machines work.
While you probably won’t see this behaviour when playing online slots at Ivy Casino, it’s something many players still wonder about – particularly if they’ve seen it in person or heard others talk about it.
In this blog, we’ll explore why some players tap slot machine screens, where this behaviour may have started, and whether it has any real effect on the outcome of the game.
If you’re new to online slots, or just curious about how different styles of play have developed, this guide can offer useful context and help you better understand how people interact with games of chance like slots.
Why Do Slot Machine Players Tap The Screen?
When playing slot games on touchscreen devices, such as smartphones or tablets, tapping is simply part of how you interact with the game. At Ivy Casino, for example, you can tap the screen to spin the reels or browse through games. It’s a practical input method that suits the technology used today.
But tapping during a spin, especially when done repeatedly or at specific moments, can sometimes come from more than just using a touchscreen. This action has been carried over from earlier styles of play. In physical casinos, before online slots were common, some players would tap the machine while the reels were in motion. This wasn’t required for the machine to operate—it was more of a personal response to the tension or anticipation of the spin.
For a few, tapping felt like it helped the game along. It was a way to stay focused or react to what was happening on the screen. Others saw it as a small ritual—something that might bring a more favourable outcome, even though results were, and still are, random. These gestures don’t affect how slot games function, but they can shape how some people prefer to engage with them.
What’s important to know is that outcomes in slot games are determined by a Random Number Generator (RNG), whether you’re playing in a physical casino or online at Ivy Casino. Tapping doesn’t influence the RNG or alter the result—it’s a personal action, not a practical one.
Where Did The “Fast Tapping” Slot Machine Strategy Originate?
The style of fast tapping while playing slots began long before the rise of online casinos. In land-based venues, players sometimes tapped the machine quickly, pressing the spin button repeatedly in an effort to move through spins at a faster pace. This approach had nothing to do with how the machines actually worked—it was more about staying active during play and trying to create a rhythm.
Some players were driven by superstition. Tapping was believed to “boost the game” or invite a more favourable result, even though slot machines operate entirely at random. Much like other gaming rituals—such as using the same machine or sitting in a certain spot—fast tapping became a way to feel more connected to the game. While these behaviours don’t affect the outcome, they can offer a sense of familiarity and comfort.
This fast-paced tapping style is also sometimes seen in slot tournaments, especially in land-based casinos. These tournaments are timed events where participants try to get through as many spins as possible before the clock runs out. Since points—not money—usually determine the winner, the goal is speed. Tapping rapidly becomes a way to keep the game moving, helping players fit in more spins and potentially score more points.
While this style of play can look intense, it doesn’t change the fundamental nature of slot games. Whether in a physical slot tournament, or a casual session online at Ivy Casino, each spin is decided randomly by the RNG. There’s no hidden method or technique that can change what symbols land—only chance determines the outcome.
Fast tapping may give players a sense of momentum or control, but it’s important to recognise it for what it is: a playing style, not a strategy that improves results.
Does Tapping The Slot Machine Screen Work?
In short, tapping the screen while playing online slots does not change the outcome. Slot games at Ivy Casino – and all UK-regulated online casinos – are powered by certified RNGs. These are tested by approved third-party labs to ensure that all spins are fair, unpredictable, and random.
Once you click spin, the result is already set, even before the animation finishes. The symbols and the way they land are entirely based on chance. No input after the spin has started – whether it’s tapping, swiping, or shouting at the screen – will influence what happens.
That said, tapping may still be enjoyable for some players. It can make the experience feel more hands-on or keep a person focused. But it’s good to be clear: it’s just for show.
Play Slot Machines Online at Ivy Casino
At Ivy Casino, you’ll find a wide range of exciting slot and table games to enjoy. The site offers a user-friendly experience, making it easy to find your favourite games or explore new ones. Whether you’re a fan of classic slots or prefer themed adventures, there’s plenty to explore.
Regulated by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC), Ivy Casino ensures that players can enjoy games in a secure and responsible environment. When playing online slots, it’s important to remember that these games are random, so any winnings can never be guaranteed.
By exploring the wide variety of games available at Ivy Casino, you can discover how different gameplay features and themes might suit your preferences. Remember, enjoying these games responsibly is key to having a fun online experience.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins etc.) mentioned in relation to these slot games are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.
**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.