Losing Streaks Explained: What Every Gambler Should Know

Know that feeling when you can’t seem to catch a break? Like that game’s taking the mick, and your bankroll is vanishing faster than you expected? Yup, we’ve all been there.

First of all, losing streaks happen to everyone, even the most experienced punters. Whether you’re spinning the reels for fun or playing your strategy at a table game, numbers don’t lie. Around 70% of casino players walk away with less than they started with. Even the average return rate doesn’t guarantee smooth sailing.

The good news is that understanding how losing streaks work can help you play smarter.

In this article:

What’s a losing streak really (odds, probability, and all the math)?

• What RNG has to do with it all.
• Why losing streaks hit even strategy-based games.
• How long is too long (what red flags to watch out for)?
• And real tips on how to snap out of it.

So, What Counts As A Losing Streak?

Let’s see what’s what.

First of all, a losing streak is when you hit back-to-back losses when playing online. Could be a few spins, could be a hundred, really – if we’re talking slots. And yup, it happens to everyone.

I bet you’ve heard about lucky winning streaks, too. Well, a losing streak is quite the opposite. In plain words, you’re playing and hoping, but the game goes just like, “Not today, mate.”

The curious part is that everyone reacts differently to this. In a recent publication, they say that one of the most common coping strategies is externalising blame: “attributing losses to external factors like bad luck … or even the actions of other players.” This is supposed to protect the player’s confidence without confronting the reality. At least, it doesn’t sound as bad as chasing losses.

How Common Are Losing Streaks?

According to a ResearchGate report, simulations in online slots show that about 90% of the time, a losing streak lasts 7 spins. But if you also count times when you win, yet it’s less than you bet (so, you’re still losing money), the most streaks end by the 13th spin.

So, losing streaks are very common, even more common than you want them to be, especially if those are slots. Yup, slot games are built with an RTP (Return to Player) of around 96% or so, which sounds proper return, but the catch is that RTP is calculated over thousands of reel spins. Imagine this in the short term – you could go through dry spells for long.

That said, even if you’re doing everything right (managing your bankroll, sticking to high-RTP games), losing streaks is part of the game. That’s how casino games work.

It’s Not Your Luck, It’s the RNG (slots fans, this one’s for you)

Know this feeling after a cold streak when you start thinking the game’s out to get you? Well, it’s not personal. It’s the Random Number Generator. And it does exactly what it says – spits out absolutely random results. So, it doesn’t matter how long your dry spell lasts, you can as well lose your next spin. There’s no pattern.

And, mates, if you’re ever thinking, “Must be due a win soon,” hate to break it to you, but slots don’t work like this. It’s random, remember?

So, chasing wins to make it back simply doesn’t make sense. If anything, it will end in even more losses.

The good news is that RNG actually keeps things fair, meaning no casino or bad guys can change the game results.

Losing Streaks Don’t Play Favourites – Even If It’s Strategy Games

Guess what! Even if it’s blackjack, poker, or roulette, losing streaks are part of the game, too. No, I’m not talking about making a bad move. Sometimes, it goes down to the luck of a draw, spin, or deal.

Take blackjack, for instance – the game with one of the lowest house edges. You can do everything right and still lose several hands in a row, all because the cards just aren’t falling your way.

Now, roulette. The odds are even more blunt. First, there’s no strategy to beat the wheel long-term. Yes, betting on red or black has better odds, but the wheel doesn’t care much. You can end up with 10 blacks in a row while you’re waiting for red.

Then there’s poker. Yup, skill plays quite the role. But there’s variance with unlucky rivers, hands that look golden until they’re not, and bad beats. Plus, if frustration sets in, things can spiral fast.

Bottom line? Losing streaks doesn’t mean you’re doing something wrong. It means there’s always a place for chance, even in a strategic game.

Losing or Just Plain Stuck?

Even the best of us can hit a dry patch from time to time. But how long is too long? (or, signs you’re in a slump).

First off, don’t expect a magic number of how long a cold streak can last. So, it’s better to spot the signs instead of obsessing over stats.

Keep your radar on:

Fun’s off. If your luck seems to have taken a permanent holiday over the Brexit border, and every spin feels like a chore. It’s your sign to step away.

Chasing losses. Oh, that’s a classic. If you find yourself spinning “just one more time” because you’re on a quest to win it back, well, you’re heading down a slippery slope.

Emotions getting in the way. Feeling frustrated and irritable? Seems bad luck isn’t just messing with your spins, but also your headspace.

Ignoring limits. Maybe you did set a budget, trying to play it safe, but once those slumps start messing with your head, don’t let them mess with your wallet as well.

Losses piling up. When there’s no clear end in sight and you keep losing session after session – well, you can’t ignore that.

Rachel’s take? If you’re no longer having fun, and it’s been long since you landed a win, step back – take a breather.

Final Thoughts: How to Keep it Cool When Streaks Get Cold

I think the hardest part is to recognise the losing streak for what it is. It’s just how it works with casino games – they run on randomness. No, they’re not out to get you. So, don’t take it personal.

Step two? Step back. Yes, don’t chase losses. It’s like running after the bus you missed – stressful and pointless. Instead, have a cuppa and clear your head.

After all this, make sure to set strict limits before your next session. It will stop the spiral before it starts. But seriously, maybe switch games or try a lower stake?

Now, I know it may sound daft, but use forums to vent and get perspective. Trust me, you’re not the only one hitting a dry patch.

Remember, losing isn’t about your luck or skill – it’s part of the ride. Just don’t overthink it and play smart by setting limits and sticking to them like glue. After all, safe gambling isn’t just a buzzword. It’s the best way to keep the thrill without losing the plot.

Fancy more tips? Feel free to check our other guides on how to play casino games and stay in control, because you can have fun without the stress.