Online slots are virtual versions of traditional slot machines that have spinning reels with different symbols. To win prizes, players should spin the reels and hope that these symbols match up on predetermined paylines.
The concept of slot machines originated in the late 19th century. However, the first online casinos appeared only in the 1990s and revolutionized the gambling industry. As a result, players now don’t have to travel to a physical casino and can enjoy their favorite games from the comfort of their homes.
If you’re a new player, the variety of online slot machines can be overwhelming. To help you navigate this variety, let’s discuss the 5 most popular types of online slots.
- Classic Slots
Classic slot machines, also known as three-reel slots, are based on the original slot machines. They usually have three reels and simple symbols like fruits, bars, bells, and sevens. Since slots don’t have complicated rules, they are great, especially for beginners. All you have to do is spin the reels and hope for a winning combination. The chances of winning are straightforward since there’s often just one payline. It means that players win if the matching symbols line up directly on the payline after a spin. Classic slots have small payouts but higher hit frequency, which makes them appealing to those who enjoy clear and uncomplicated gameplay.
- Video Slots
Video slots are advanced versions of traditional slot machines and typically have 5 or more reels. Unlike classic slot machines with only 1 payline, the number of paylines on video slots can often range from 10 to 100 or even over 1,000 in some games. Logically, this multitude of paylines significantly increases how players can form winning combinations.
Players love video slots for their high-quality graphics and diverse themes, such as ancient Egyptian themes, adventure, mythology, fantasy, etc. Their interactive bonus features, such as free spins, wild symbols, multipliers, and scatter symbols, trigger special games.
- Progressive Jackpot Slots
Progressive jackpot slots are popular among players who dream of big wins. Usually, progressive jackpot slots are connected across many different casinos. Every time each player in these casinos places a bet, the game takes a small portion of it and adds it to the large prize pool – the jackpot.
When someone wins a jackpot, it can often be worth millions of dollars. For example, games like Mega Moolah or Mega Fortune are known to pay out jackpots over $10 million. To win, you usually have to get a very specific combination of symbols or win a special bonus game.
- 3D Slots
3D slots are popular because they’re not just about spinning reels—they offer a richer, more interactive gaming experience. They are modern slot machine games that use advanced graphics to create a three-dimensional look. Like in CGI movies, this makes everything on the screen appear more lifelike. In these games, players often go on an adventure in ancient lands, explore outer space, or engage in a fantasy quest. Moreover, 3D slots include special bonus rounds where you can play mini-games.
- Megaways Slots
Megaways slots are video slot games invented by Big Time Gaming that offer a dynamic gaming experience. Unlike traditional slots with fixed symbols and paylines, Megaways slots feature a variable number of symbols on each reel, usually between 2 and 7, that change with every spin. For example, a six-reel Megaways slot where each reel shows 7 symbols can offer up to 117,649 ways to win (calculated as 7^6).
Now that you are familiar with the 5 best types of online slots, you can confidently choose the one that suits your preferences. If you’re a beginner, start with classic slot games and explore other types as you become more comfortable.
