Plinko is a simple but engaging game inspired by Japan’s Pachinko and the iconic TV show The Price is Right. Players drop a ball from the top of a triangular pin pyramid, with the ball’s path determined by bouncing off pins in random directions. The ball ultimately lands in a payout slot at the bottom, with payouts varying based on the slot’s multiplier.
The best part of Plinko is the simplicity and randomness – anyone can play, but there's still the thrill of potential big wins.
What is Plinko?
The Plinko gambling game is based on a game show where a disc is dropped from the top of a board filled with pegs. As the disc falls, it bounces off the pegs, changing direction and finally landing in a slot at the bottom. Each slot has a different payout, so players bet on where they think the disc will land. The excitement comes from the unpredictable path the disc takes, with the chance to win a bigger payout if it lands in the higher-paying slots.
How Does Plinko Game Work?
The Plinko game board is a vertical grid filled with rows of pegs. At the top, there's a drop zone where players release a disc or puck, which will navigate its way down through these pegs.
The pegs are strategically placed in offset rows, creating a randomized path for the disc as it bounces off each peg. Every bounce alters the disc's trajectory, leading to unpredictable outcomes.
Bet and Risk Levels
Some Plinko games allow players to choose a risk level, such as low, medium, or high. Higher risk levels increase potential payout multipliers but come with a higher chance of lower returns.
Some Plinko versions also let players adjust the number of peg rows. More rows increase the complexity of the disc’s path, introducing additional randomness and potential for varied outcomes.
The Payout Slots
Slot Multipliers: At the bottom of the board are slots with different payout values. These values are typically represented as multipliers, such as 1x, 2x, or even higher for riskier games.
High and Low Payouts: Slots on the sides generally have lower multipliers, while the middle slots often feature higher multipliers. However, this arrangement can vary by game.
Calculating the Winning Payout
When the disc lands in a slot, the final payout is calculated by multiplying the player’s initial bet by the slot's multiplier.
Example: If a you put a R100 bet and the disc lands in a slot with a 10x multiplier, the payout would be R1,000 (100 x 10).
How to Play Plinko Game
This guide should help you get started with Plinko at any South African online casino.
1. Set Up Your Bet and Preferences
Start by selecting your bet amount. Many Plinko games allow you to adjust settings like the risk level (low, medium, or high) and the number of peg rows, which can affect the payout potential and randomness of the disc’s path.
2. Release the Disc
Once your bet is placed, release the disc from the top of a peg-filled board. The disc bounces off the pegs, which randomly changes its direction as it moves down toward the slots at the bottom.
3. Watch the Path
As the disc falls, it navigates through a series of pegs that create a random path. This adds suspense, as each bounce alters its final destination.
4. Land in a Slot
The disc eventually lands in one of the slots at the bottom of the board. Each slot has a different multiplier, determining your payout based on your initial bet.
5. Collect Winnings
If the disc lands in a slot with a high multiplier, you’ll win a larger payout. Your winnings are calculated by multiplying your original bet by the slot’s multiplier.
6. Repeat or Adjust Settings
You can then choose to play another round with the same settings or adjust your bet, risk level, and peg rows to try a different approach.
Free Plinko Demo
Play the Plinko demo for free below to get a feel for the casino game before playing at a real money gambling site.
Where to Play Plinko for Real Money in South Africa
There are a few legit online casinos where you can play Plinko in South Africa. Here are some of the best sites to consider:
1. Hollywoodbets
Hollywoodbets is one of the most popular and trusted sites for South African players. While it’s known primarily for sports betting, it has a strong selection of casino games, including Plinko.
Features: It offers various game types, reliable customer service, and easy payment options for local players.
Hollywoodbets Version: PlinkoX
2. Stake Casino
Stake Casino offers its own exclusive version of Plinko, branded as a Stake Original, which means it’s specifically designed and customized for their platform. This version retains the classic Plinko mechanics but adds unique features tailored to online play, setting it apart from other Plinko games.
Stake Version: Stake Original Plinko Game
3. Lottostar
Lottostar is a licensed online gambling site in South Africa, known for offering a wide range of betting options, including lotto, scratch cards, and casino-style games like Plinko. It is highly popular for providing interactive and straightforward games, making it a top choice for players interested in quick, fun games.
Features: Lottostar offers an easy-to-navigate interface, making it ideal for both new and experienced players. It supports a variety of local payment methods for gambling, including instant EFTs and mobile payments, making deposits and withdrawals convenient. The platform is optimized for mobile devices, allowing players to enjoy games like Plinko seamlessly on smartphones and tablets.
Lottostar Version: Turbo Plinko & Plinko Go
How to Play Plinko Gambling Game Online in South Africa
Here's a simple guide on how to play Plinko at online casinos in South Africa:
1. Choose a Reputable Online Casino
Start by selecting a trusted South African online casino that offers Plinko.
Look for casinos with a good reputation, verified licenses, and a range of fair games.
2. Register and Set Up Your Account
Sign up by filling in your details (name, email, phone number).
Verify your account through email or SMS, as most casinos require this step to activate your account.
3. Make a Deposit
Head to the cashier or deposit section of the casino.
Choose your preferred payment method, such as a debit card, e-wallet, or bank transfer.
Enter the amount you’d like to deposit and complete the transaction.
4. Find the Plinko Game
Navigate to the game library.
Use the search bar to type in “Plinko,” or browse through the casino’s list of slot or arcade games.
5. Learn the Game Rules and Set Your Bet Amount
Plinko typically involves dropping a puck or ball down a board with various multipliers at the bottom.
Select your bet amount, which can usually be adjusted with + or - buttons.
Choose the risk level (low, medium, or high) if the game has this option, as it affects the payout multipliers.
6. Drop the Ball and Watch the Results
Press the "Play" or "Drop" button to release the puck.
The puck will bounce down through pegs and land in a slot with a multiplier value.
Your payout will depend on where the puck lands, with higher multipliers offering bigger payouts.
7. Collect Winnings or Adjust Bet for Next Round
After each round, you can collect your winnings.
Adjust your bet or risk level for the next round if you want to keep playing.
8. Cash Out When You're Ready
When you’re finished playing, go to the cashier section.
Select a withdrawal method, enter the amount, and confirm the withdrawal.
Most casinos process withdrawals within a few hours to a few business days, depending on the method.
Top Tips for Plinko Gambling Game
Start with Low-Risk Bets
For beginners, stick to the low-risk setting to reduce volatility and experience smaller, consistent payouts that can help extend your gameplay. This approach lets you get familiar with the game’s mechanics and maintain a more stable bankroll.
Gradually Increase Risk Levels
Once you’re comfortable, try experimenting with medium or high-risk settings in short bursts. By slowly raising the risk level after several rounds, you can test the potential for higher payouts without committing too much in one go.
Adjust Row Numbers Based on Tolerance
Choose fewer rows (around 8–10) if you want quicker, less random gameplay, providing a steadier experience. If you’re aiming for bigger wins, increase the rows to 16, which introduces more complexity and enhances potential payouts but with more unpredictability.
Take Advantage of Bonuses and Free Rounds
Look for casinos that offer bonuses or promotions specifically for Plinko. Extra funds, free rounds, or Plinko-related bonuses give you additional chances to try different strategies or experience extended playtime without additional spending.
Set a Budget and Use Smaller Bets
Decide on a spending limit before starting and choose smaller bet amounts to maximize your bankroll’s longevity. This lets you enjoy multiple rounds and test different strategies without exhausting your funds quickly, increasing your chances of hitting a big payout.
FAQs
Can you play Plinko for real money?
Yes, many online casinos and gambling sites offer Plinko for real money, allowing players to bet and win cash payouts.
Can you play Plinko in South Africa?
Yes, Plinko is available at various online casinos that accept South African players, such as Stake, Lottostar, and others.
How much can you win on Plinko?
Winnings vary based on the casino and game settings, but in high-risk mode, Plinko games can offer payouts up to 1000x your initial wager.
Where can I play Plinko online for real money?
You can play Plinko for real money at online casinos like Stake, MyStake, Lottostar, and Betway, which offer this game as part of their game library.
Is Plinko a game of luck?
Yes, Plinko is primarily a game of chance, as the ball’s path is unpredictable due to the pegs on the board. However, players can adjust risk levels to influence potential payouts.
Master of Data Analytics and iGaming Enthusiast
University of Pretoria alumnus Alex Turner combines a business analytics background with a deep understanding of consumer psychology. After leaving a corporate career, he pivoted to the iGaming industry, analysing online casino data and player behaviours. Pursuing a master's in Consumer Psychology, Alex specialises in bridging data analytics with player insights. As an industry analyst and content creator, he offers strategic advice based on his dual expertise. Alex's focus is empowering players with data-driven insights for a smarter, more enjoyable online casino experience.