I wonder if all of the implmentations of progressive machines are the same. For example -- there are progressives self-contained within a single machine (think of "Blazing Sevens"). There are local area network progressives, where a number of similar themed machines are attached (think of WMS Gamings, "Life of Luxury" or "Jackpot Party" progressives) -- and finally the wide area network games, spread over multiple casinos (think of IGT's Mega Millions).

In observing "Life of Luxury" when I am the only person on the network -- indeed, there are preset progressives. Each time I spin, the progressives go up by a very small amount. When I do not spin, the numbers do not change. The lower level progressives are won on an hourly basis. The next level is won several times a day. The next level is won on a daily basis (or several times a week) ... and the top level is won a few times a month.

Some machines are available as "stand alone" versions, with "set" payouts, while the same title could be connected as a progressive (think IGT's "Double, Triple Diamond"). From my experience, the progressive version does not pay out as frequently as the stand along version. I assume, when you add in a progressive win, the PAR is likely the same as a stand alone -- however, to most players, who will never win the progressive ... the same ends up with less frequent payouts.

/\/\/\/\ the Shamus /\/\/\/\