7 of the most common types of online slot games

There are now more options than ever before in terms of slot games, with hundreds of different variants out there for players to choose from. Not only are there many different themes but also many variations on the standard gameplay formula, introducing extra elements or mechanics that switch up the game.

With so many potential options, it may be hard to narrow down which of the many Slots online will suit a player’s personal preferences. That’s why we’ve put together a list of seven of the most common types of online slot games and what sets them apart.

• Classic Slots

For all the newer Slots variants, classic slot games are still a popular option among players. These stick a lot closer to the oldest slot game designs from around the turn of the 20th century, with three reels and a single payline.

This makes them a simple option for players who prefer more streamlined gameplay, without any of the more modern tweak or additions. Classic games also tend to feature fruit symbols, bells and card suits to match their more retro vibe.

• Progressive Jackpot Slots

This type of slot game can have any theming and are more defined by their style of jackpot. Unlike other Slots, those with progressive jackpots don’t have a fixed value and will see their jackpot pool grow over time.

Every time a player plays a game with a progressive jackpot, a fraction of their wager is added to the total jackpot pool, allowing the number to rise until the jackpot combination is landed.

• Cascading reels Slots

These games introduce a different mechanic to the standard Slots gameplay with the addition of cascading reels. 

Once the reels stop in a game with cascading reels, this isn’t the end, as any symbols that form part of a valid matching combination will clear off the screen once registered. This leaves room for additional symbols to cascade down, potentially creating more matching combinations in the process.

• Multi-payline Slots

Another category of game that switches up one of the basic parts of Slots is multi-payline games. Where classic Slots only featured a single, central payline, these games offer far more payline options from horizontal or vertical to diagonal or alternate patterns.

Some multi-payline Slots feature hundreds of potential paylines, but not all of them are activated by default. Depending on the player’s wager and choices, they can activate a certain number of paylines, opening the door to more potential matching combinations landing.

• Cluster Slots

Or there are Slots that do away with the concept of paylines entirely. Cluster Slots instead have matching combinations form from clusters, wherever the required number of symbols appear next to each other.

This mechanic is often paired with cascading reels, so there’s some overlap between these two types of slot games.

• Branded Slots

This category is based entirely off theming, as there are many slot games that draw their imagery from popular TV shows or films like Gladiator, Game of Thrones or The Walking Dead. Some are even themed based on individual celebrities.

These games often feature images, video and audio taken directly from the source material to add to the detail of their theming.

• 3D Slots

Developing technology has allowed developers to create games with advanced graphics and animations with three-dimensional visuals. 3D Slots add an additional layer to gameplay and are optimised for mobile devices and a variety of technical specs.

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And that’s only scratching the surface of the wide variety of Slots that are available to play online. From the theme or the mechanics, there’s a slot game out there to suit any preference.