Online slot games are heaps of fun but there are thousands of them, which makes it hard to choose which ones to play. No matter your tastes and preferences, there are games out there to suit you – you just need to know what you’re looking for. In this guide, we’ll tell you all about slot games and help you identify those that will suit you the best.
Before you try and find games, it’s important to understand the core mechanics of them. Slots are pretty simple but there are differences that help make them exciting and engaging. Here are some of the main components:
Reels are the vertical columns that spin during the game. The first slots had three reels, but many modern slots have five or more. When the reels stop spinning, you’ll notice a variety of symbols in a range of positions. If the symbols are in a specific position, you win.
A payline is the line that runs across the reels and determines whether you win or not. In classic fruit machines, there was a single, horizontal line, but in today’s games, there can be multiple paylines, including diagonal, zigzag and even “all-ways” patterns. Some games have hundreds of paylines, which makes them more appealing and dynamic.
Symbols are the images that appear on the reels. They vary depending on the theme, but common symbols include fruits, playing card symbols (10, J, Q, K, A) and animals. Modern slots often have special symbols like Wilds or Scatters, which have specific roles within the game.
Wild symbols can substitute for other symbols to allow you to complete a winning combination. Whereas Scatters usually trigger a bonus round or free spins when they appear in a specific quantity. This is usually regardless of where they land.
Jackpots
These are the ultimate slot game prizes and there are two types;
Fixed jackpots are a predetermined amount that won’t change. Whereas Progressive jackpots increase every time a player spins the reels. They can grow huge, often reaching millions. Progressive slots are linked across a network of casinos, which allows them to be much bigger than fixed jackpots.
Key slot terminology
Understanding key slot terms gives you the upper hand. Here are some important concepts to grasp;
Return to Player: RTP is the percentage of all wagered money that a slot game pays back to players over time. If the slot has an RTP of 95%, it means that the game returns 95% of all wagered money back to players as prizes. This is over a long period, and it doesn’t guarantee that an individual will win back all their money wagered.
Volatility: Also referred to as variance, this refers to how frequently a slot game pays out and how big the payouts are. A game with high volatility will pay out less often but when it does, the prizes are larger. Conversely, a low-volatility slot will pay out more frequently, but the prizes will be smaller.
Factors to consider when choosing a slot game
Choosing a slot game isn’t easy because there are so many options available. Here’s a guide to what you should look for when choosing;
1. Theme and visual appeal
Slot games come in a wide range of themes, from ancient civilizations to movie-inspired franchises. Choosing a theme that you like can make the experience more immersive and enjoyable. Playing a game with high-quality graphics, animations and sound effects enhances your experience.
2. RTP and volatility
Understanding a slot’s RTP and volatility is essential for managing your expectations in terms of winning (or not). Choose a game with a high RTP for a better chance of winning. For volatility, weigh up how long you expect to play and whether you’d prefer a smaller or bigger payout should you be lucky enough to win.
3. Bonus features and free spins
Modern slot games tend to have special features like bonus rounds. Look for features like free spins, wilds and expanding wilds, multipliers and interactive bonus rounds.
4. Betting options and payout limits
The betting range is important because it determines how flexible the game is. Games with lower stakes options are ideal for players with smaller budgets. Games with high-stakes options are better for high rollers who are comfortable wagering larger amounts.
5. Game developers and reputations
Games from reputable developers such as NetEnt, Microgaming and Playtech are known for their fairness and high quality. When you choose a game from a trusted developer, your experience is likely to be better.
6. Reviews and ratings
Player reviews and expert ratings can provide valuable insights into a game’s performance, fairness and entertainment value. Look for feedback from reputable third parties like Anton Saliba, who writes tons of independent reviews on games and casinos.
7. Compatibility
Most games these days are playable on any device but should you like to try a classic slot, you might find it’s not available on mobile, for example.
Responsible gaming tips
Whenever you play slot games, it should be fun and enjoyable rather than stressful. Here are some tips to help you keep it that way:
- Set a budget and stick to it. Never chase losses.
- Limit your playing time to avoid playing too much.
- Only play for fun – don’t play to make money.
- Know the signs of problem gambling. Seek help if you start to recognise that gambling is affecting your finances, emotions or relationships.
- Use tools to support responsible gaming. This includes things like spending limits, time-outs, self-exclusion and self-assessment tools.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect slot game is about finding a balance between excitement and your personal preferences. When you understand the mechanics and factors like RTP and volatility, you can make better decisions about the games you play. Always remember to practise responsible gambling. Remember, the best slot game is the one that matches your interests, budget and playing style.
