Machine Strategy Guide
IGT Classic Hits Slot Strategy
IGT Classic Hits (Coyote Moon Deluxe, Money Storm Deluxe, Lobstermania Deluxe) feature three must-hit-by progressives. Learn the exact trigger values for every bet size and when the meters signal a +EV play.
What Is IGT Classic Hits?
The IGT Classic Hits series includes three titles: Coyote Moon Deluxe, Money Storm Deluxe, and Lucky Larry’s Lobstermania Deluxe. Each features three must-hit-by (MHB) progressive jackpot tiers labeled top (large), middle (medium), and bottom (small). The progressives must trigger before reaching their maximum values, creating calculable +EV opportunities.
IGT Classic Hits is classified as a must-hit-by advantage play type. All three titles use identical progressive structures and trigger thresholds that scale linearly with bet size.
How the Must-Hit-By Mechanic Works
Each of the three progressive tiers on IGT Classic Hits has a posted must-hit-by ceiling. As the meter climbs, the probability of awarding on any given spin increases. The midpoint method provides the standard AP evaluation: when the current meter value reaches the trigger threshold, the expected jackpot value exceeds the expected base-game losses — making the play +EV.
The trigger values below are the minimum meter readings at which the play becomes +EV. If the meter shows a value at or above the trigger threshold for your bet size, that tier is a +EV play. Sum the expected values across all three tiers to get the combined machine EV.
Trigger Value Tables
Progressive names: Top = Lunar Eclipse / Hurricane / Major Catch • Middle = Full Moon / Tornado / Minor Catch • Bottom = Half Moon / Whirlwind / Minnow Catch
| Bet Size | Top Trigger | Middle Trigger | Bottom Trigger |
|---|---|---|---|
| $0.50 | $194 | $48 | $19 |
| $1.00 | $388 | $96 | $38 |
| $1.50 | $582 | $144 | $57 |
| $2.50 | $970 | $240 | $95 |
| $5.00 | $1,940 | $480 | $190 |
How to use this table: Find the row for your bet size. If the current meter reading for any tier is at or above the trigger value in that column, that tier is +EV. Add the expected value across all qualifying tiers to determine total machine EV.
Play / Walk Rules
- Play: One or more meter readings meet or exceed the trigger threshold for your intended bet size.
- Walk: All three meters are below their trigger thresholds.
- Bet size matters: Always verify the trigger threshold for your specific bet size. The values in the table scale directly with bet size.
- Re-evaluate after each jackpot hit: When a progressive fires, the meter resets. Check the new meter values before continuing play.
Get the Full IGT Classic Hits Trigger Values
The free overview covers the must-hit-by mechanic and core trigger tables. The full guide includes exact must-hit-by ceiling values, combined EV calculations, and floor strategy for all three Classic Hits titles.
View Full IGT Classic Hits GuideIncludes trigger thresholds, screenshots, and calculator integration.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is IGT Classic Hits?
IGT Classic Hits is a series of three must-hit-by slot machines: Coyote Moon Deluxe, Money Storm Deluxe, and Lucky Larry's Lobstermania Deluxe. Each features three must-hit-by progressives (top, middle, and bottom tiers) that must trigger before reaching their maximum values.
How do must-hit-by progressives work on IGT Classic Hits?
Each of the three progressive tiers has a published maximum value (the must-hit-by ceiling). The progressive must award before reaching that ceiling. When the current meter value is close enough to the ceiling, the expected value of playing exceeds the expected cost, creating a +EV opportunity.
What are the trigger values for the top progressive on Coyote Moon Deluxe?
The top progressive (Lunar Eclipse) triggers at: $194 on a $0.50 bet, $388 on a $1.00 bet, $582 on a $1.50 bet, $970 on a $2.50 bet, and $1,940 on a $5.00 bet. These values scale linearly with bet size across all three Classic Hits titles.
Do all three IGT Classic Hits titles use the same trigger values?
Yes. Coyote Moon Deluxe, Money Storm Deluxe, and Lobstermania Deluxe all use the same trigger value structure. The progressive names differ (Lunar Eclipse vs Hurricane vs Major Catch, etc.) but the must-hit-by thresholds scale identically by bet size across all three.
How do I find IGT Classic Hits machines on the casino floor?
Look for the distinctive classic IGT themes — Coyote Moon, Money Storm (storm imagery), or Lobstermania (Larry the Lobster). The must-hit-by progressive meters are displayed prominently on the machine's top box. Verify the current meter values and compare to the trigger tables.
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