A payline is a term commonly used in the context of slot machines and video slots. It refers to the specific pattern or line on which winning combinations of symbols must land for a player to receive a payout. Paylines can vary in number and shape, ranging from a single horizontal line to multiple lines that can be diagonal or zigzagged across the reels. In modern video slots, players often have the option to choose how many paylines to activate, which can affect their chances of winning. The more paylines that are active, the higher the potential for winning combinations, but this also means a higher cost per spin. Understanding the payline structure is essential for players to strategize their gameplay effectively.