Online slots are one of the most popular game categories in internet casinos. Players are offered a huge selection of themes, features, and bonuses to suit every taste. The portfolios of leading developers such as NetEnt, Microgaming, Play’n GO, Pragmatic Play, and many others include slots for players with different preferences and bankroll sizes. From classic “fruit” machines to modern video slots with exciting bonus rounds – everyone can find a game they like in an online casino.
What are online slots?
Online slots are a digital version of traditional slot machines, adapted for playing over the internet. Instead of physical reels, a random number generator is used to determine the outcome of each spin. The player places a bet, spins the reels, and receives a payout if a winning combination of symbols forms on the screen. The payout amount depends on the player’s bet and the coefficients in the paytable.
Types of online slots
Depending on the mechanics used and the features of the gameplay, several main types of online slots can be distinguished:
- Classic slots. Simple slot machines with 3 reels and a small number of paylines. They most often use traditional symbols: fruits, BAR, sevens, bells.
- Video slots. More modern games with improved graphics, animation, and sound effects. They usually have 5 reels, multiple paylines, and a wide range of bonus features.
- Progressive slots. Games in which a portion of each bet is set aside in a progressive jackpot prize pool. The amount accumulates until one of the players hits the jackpot.
- Slots with non-standard layouts. Games where symbols can fall not only on horizontal lines but also form clusters, chains, and other winning combinations.
Features of online slots
Modern online slots offer players a variety of interesting features that make the game more exciting and profitable:
- Wilds. Special symbols that can substitute for other symbols to form winning combinations. There are expanding, sticky, and multiplier wilds.
Scatters. Symbols that trigger bonus features, such as free spins, when a certain number of them appear. - Bonus games. Mini-games within the slot that are activated when certain conditions are met. They can offer cash prizes, multipliers, additional free spins.
- Free spins. A series of free spins that are triggered after scatters or other bonus symbols appear. Special conditions apply during free spins: additional multipliers, wilds, etc.
- Gamble feature. An additional double-or-nothing round where you can increase your winnings by guessing the color or suit of a playing card.
Frequently asked questions
How is the outcome of a spin determined in online slots?
Spin results are generated using a special algorithm – a random number generator (RNG). This ensures the fairness and unpredictability of the game. Neither the player nor the online casino can influence the operation of the RNG.
Do online slots have betting limits?
Yes, each slot has a minimum and maximum bet size. The minimum bet usually ranges from £0.10 to £1, and the maximum can reach several thousand pounds. The bet size affects the size of potential payouts.
Which slots are better to choose – high or low volatility?
It all depends on your playing style and bankroll size. Low volatility slots give more frequent but smaller payouts. High volatility slots pay out less often, but the prizes are larger. Beginners are better off starting with low volatility games.
What is the return to player (RTP) percentage of an online slot?
RTP shows what percentage of all bets made the slot theoretically returns to players in the form of winnings over the long run. For example, if the RTP is 96%, then out of every £100 bet, players will get back £96. The remaining £4 is the online casino’s profit.
