No, there is no way to predict when a slot machine is going to hit a jackpot or to determine which machine is going to be lucky. Slot machines are programmed to use a random number generator (RNG) to determine the outcome of each spin, and the RNG generates random and unpredictable results.

As part of these Tribal-state negotiations, house-banked card games were regulated, but certain games such as craps, roulette, and dice-games based on chance remained prohibited under the state constitution and laws. Essentially, California forbids games where a ball or dice alone determines the outcome.

It depends on local laws. If its just a bunch of buddies having fun with small amounts of money in a private house no-one is likely to care. If it looks like serious gambling with big stakes, there are likely to be local laws on the subject.