A progressive jackpot is a type of prize that increases over time as players make bets, typically linked across multiple machines or casinos, meaning the jackpot can grow significantly until someone wins it. In contrast, a local jackpot is specific to a single machine or a small group of machines within a casino, with its prize amount determined by the wagers made on those machines alone. While progressive jackpots can reach life-changing amounts, local jackpots tend to offer smaller payouts that are limited to the specific gaming area.