Types of Slot Machines: 6 Slot Variations All Casino Players Should Know

Classic Slot Machines (Three-Reel Slots)

Classic slot machines are the oldest form of online slots and often simply called "one-armed bandits." This nickname was given to the earlier mechanical slots with a lever that the user would pull to spin the reels.

Classic slots are a segment of every casino. They suit beginners because they are fast, easy to learn, and convenient. A jackpot can be received in the event that a player has three same symbols. Loads of reliable manufacturers have good variations of such slots, like favorite slot machines from Playtech, which are secure and entertaining.

The greatest drawback of classic slots is that they don't have too many reels, so there aren't as many combinations. Also, classic slots are volatile and will make you spend money quick, either wasting a lot of money at one time or bringing in a large amount. However, the internet version's algorithmic system is able to distribute more reasonable pay-outs than the mechanical machines previously offered.

Five-Reel Slots (Video Slots)

The first slot machine you’re likely to encounter on a casino site or in a land-based casino is a five-reel slot. These are the most common today. Unlike classic slots, five-reel machines are fully digital with no mechanical reels or levers. All players need to do is press a button. These slots feature engaging graphics and sound effects designed to attract players.

Five-reel slots were actually the forerunners of today's online slots. The game is now played on a video screen instead of mechanical reels, hence the name "video slots."

They are better than the original machines. They have more paylines, which means there are chances to win more than in the original slots. More than one coin per payline can be bet. Moreover, five-reel slots usually offer larger jackpots.

A major feature of five-reel slots is the free spins mode, which can be supplemented with bonus features such as bet multipliers.

Six- and Seven-Reel Slots

Six- and seven-reel slots are challenging to the standard formats. They will usually follow the five-reel slots format. More reels imply that combinations of bets have more ways of being constructed for the players. Six- or seven-reel bets, experiencing bonus spins or stacked wilds can be thrilling to hit and give fantastic paybacks.

The additional number of reels also increases the chances of winning bonus free spins from a single bet.

Progressive Slots (Progressive Jackpot Slots)

A portion of a bet wagered on a progressive slot goes towards a growing jackpot. What this means is that the jackpot pool is drawn from all players playing the same game at the same time. Operators on most sites display the combined progressive jackpot won by all participating casinos. Progressive jackpots are also known as pooled or networked jackpots.

The jackpots have been up to millions of dollars (or local currency, of course) and, quite obviously, the greater the jackpot, the worse your chances. It's really a lottery played by hundreds, thousands, even millions of participants.

The sole drawback of progressive slots is that the majority of the times, one will be required to use the maximum input to be eligible for the jackpot. Therefore, you must prepare to spend higher money compared to in normal slots.

Interactive Slots

Interactive slots were the next step in slot machine evolution. They are many paylines and reels but with a different configuration than all the other online machines. Rather than using older computers, they take advantage of computing power now available to allow players to set up their own storylines.

Interactive slots allow participants to become part of a game experience and provide the same experience as a fun video game, yet one that is still easy to play.

Other than the spinning of reels, interactive slots also include mini-games. The bonus rounds are where the gamblers double their payouts.

VR Slots

VR technology in online casinos was a matter of when, not if. Today, there are plenty of VR-based slot machines out there for the likes of Oculus Rift, Samsung Gear VR, Razer OSVR, Sony PlayStation VR, and others.

VR slots immerse players in a virtual environment and provide a realistic experience that mirrors what you’d find in a land-based casino. The virtual game room can contain dozens of machines. The VR environment is a more interactive experience than looking at the screen. For example, if the virtual room is on the highest floors of a skyscraper, you can see wonderful scenery between games, get a drink at the virtual bar, or relax in a lounge.

Find What Works for You

The next time you are deciding which slot machine to play, remember the different types presented herein and choose one that you will most likely have enjoyment playing. Should you still be uncertain as to which to use, test out a few of them and see which gives you the greatest enjoyment in the long term.