The Basics
A video slot works similarly to a classic slot machine but has a few distinct differences. Video slots use video technology in their displays, providing a more interactive gaming experience. The inner workings of the machines are also run by software applications, which allows the use of fun animations, graphics, and sounds. Most video slots have themes, such as sports, superheroes, seasonal, or films which draw in certain demographics.
How They Work
A video slot is essentially a digital version of a classic mechanical slot machine. Like classic slots, you make a bet or spin, and the game will return a completely random result. One of the most significant differences between classic slots and video slots is the number of paylines. Video slots have an average of 50 individual paylines, but some games can have up to a hundred or more.
When you press the max bet or spin button, the game software will randomly draw five numbers on each reel. The spinning reel numbers stop according to the random numbers generated. The program determines whether your play is a win or a loss before the last reel even stops. If you win, any money won is automatically added to your balance. You may also win free spins or bonus rounds.
Despite what some players may believe, the result of a video slot is completely random. Licensed online casinos use a computer component known as a random number generator (RNG) to create random sequences. These RNGs produce a different series of numbers each time you click on the bet max or spin buttons. Video slot machines do not have a memory. The only thing that affects a video slot's result is when you choose to play.
Video Slots vs. Classic Slots
There are several differences between video slots and classic slot machines. Here is a look at some of the perks that video slots offer:
- More paylines which gives players extra chances to win
- Free spins and bonus rounds
- Bigger jackpots
- More prize tiers
- Double-up options at the end of bonus rounds
- Chance to play multiple bonus rounds
While video slots have a number of advantages over classic slots, there are also a few downsides to consider. As there are more reels with video slots, getting winning combinations can be more difficult. In addition, the maximum bets tend to be higher on video slots due to the higher number of paylines.
Special Features
Many classic slot machines have few or no special features. Those that do have limited special features, like wilds or multipliers. However, this isn’t the case with video slots. Free spins, bonus rounds and scatter symbols are fairly common with video slot machines. As most classic slot machines do not have the capacity to run bonus rounds, this special feature is typically reserved for video slots alone. Some video slots even have multiple bonus round opportunities.
Jackpots also tend to be better with video slots. Progressive slots are some of the most popular video slot options. With progressive slot machines, the jackpot gradually increases as more people play the game. Sometimes the jackpot is on a standalone machine, while other times, it’s attached to a network of machines. While a classic slot machine can be a progressive slot, it is much more common to see progressive video slots.
Most video slots have wild and scatter symbols which can give players an advantage. Wild symbols can be found in all shapes and sizes and are typically specific to the game. Each wild can range in function, but their primary purpose is to help a player achieve more winning combinations. Scatter symbols have the power to unlock certain features, such as free spins. What’s also great about scatter symbols is that they do not necessarily have to align on an activated payline to pay.
Start Playing
The gameplay of video slots is more or less the same as classic slots except for the digital interface, which allows for better graphics and interaction. You can find thousands of video slot machines in both land-based and online casinos, each with its own unique look and theme.
Some of the most popular video slots include Second Strike, Immortal Romance, Mega Fortune, Avalon II, Flaming Hot, and Gonzo’s Quest. When playing video slots, you should always try to play the maximum bet for the best payouts. Also, take the time to compare the pay tables to see what each symbol pays.
