Types of online slots

Casino slots

Also known as classic slots, they feature reels, ambient sounds and tunes that evoke the physical slots that were part of the legendary Las Vegas casinos of the 1950s. They mimic the legendary universe of another era, but in the new online environment that we live in today.

In general, they are simple entertainments that rely on the most traditional symbols (cherries, diamonds, double grapes, bells…) and generally have a single row of payouts and only three reels.

Despite being inspired by the slots of yesteryear and maintaining that deliberately chosen vintage halo, they have optimised graphics, do not include the spin limitations of their references and have prizes of our time, much juicier than those of other eras. They are also different in terms of sound: despite maintaining the sounds of gears and ambient murmurs, the hit music is absolutely current and recognisable in the online slot universe.

Slot machines with mini-games

These are a later evolution of the initial ones. They incorporate bonuses to access new experiences, in the form of mini-games, which provide more excitement, adventures and experiences. The result is usually more satisfying.

Usually, the accumulation of certain winnings allows access to complementary spaces or game modes.

It is, so to speak, like different games within the main game. They are activated during the course of each game and have their own rules, environments and formats.

The most common types of mini-games are:

• Free spin. If you win the mini-game, you receive free spins that allow you to accumulate additional winnings.
• Match bonus. You will have to match different symbols to get your rewards.
• Pick-em-bonus. The pick-em-bonus mechanic involves picking an object that may be hiding a prize.

Elements of online slots

Symbols

These are the graphical elements that are displayed on the reels and, of course, determine whether or not you win. There are different types, although their existence varies in each slot:

• Standard. When they line up in the right amount in the pay area, they generate wins. Normally, at least three must appear.
• Wilds. These are wild symbols that substitute for any other symbol in the game, except scatters and bonus symbols.
• *Scatter. Their function is twofold. They pay out an amount, usually higher than usual, when they appear in the required amount. In addition, they provide incentives or additional free spins.
• Bonuses. These are similar to scatters, but trigger bonus games, usually with large rewards. Usually three identical ones are required.

Reels or reels

These are the spaces on which the game symbols appear. Therefore, these graphic elements are paired, or not, on the reels. Consequently, they are indispensable in any slot machine and are presented in different quantities, usually never more than 5.

Win lines or paylines

They are also fundamental to the operation of any online or physical slot. There may be just one or several, in which case they are more attractive because they allow for more prizes and chances. It is often possible to set them up before starting the game.

Jackpots

These are special prizes that allow you to win real money in larger amounts. There are two main types, which can be present in both land-based and online slots:

In-game payout prize. This has a fixed maximum cap and requires the fulfilment of pre-set requirements to achieve it. For example, 5 identical icons. The amount is always the same in every game, regardless of when it was last won.

Progressive jackpot. This is very popular because it anticipates particularly generous prizes. It is not available in all slots, but it usually brings together slots that operate in an interconnected manner, whether they belong to the same casino or to several. Its amount is fed by each player who participates in these progressive slots. After each spin, the jackpot increases, which can be very high indeed. Of course, the chances of winning are smaller than for the fixed ones.

Mini-games

Some slots include such additional, short-lived game formats, which become little oases of additional entertainment to optimise player satisfaction. These mini-games are activated on the fly and become in-game games. By participating in them, it is possible to earn various bonuses: additional cash, free spins and other incentives.

Online slots: how to play

There are not too many differences between physical and digital slot games. Mainly, there are a few differential steps in the online mode that you need to keep in mind:

The first thing is to register at the virtual casino or slot website, such as Goldenpark. Usually, you fill in a form with your username and e-mail address.

Next, we include in the user’s account the funds allocated to play. This can be done by bank card, paypal or other payment methods.

We select the chosen game.

Then, if the game allows it, we must determine which paylines we are going to play with.

Next, we decide how much we are going to bet, always within the minimum and maximum range that we have defined. Depending on this decision, we will have access to different payout rates and probabilities of success in the game. Before making this decision, you should check the table of available payouts: it shows which prizes are available in each case, as well as the characteristics of the game and the possible bonus rounds available.

We activate the spin. The reels start to move. If you win a prize, the system will show you the winnings you have won, and you may have the option to bring them back into play in a bonus round.

We continue to play, always playing responsibly and with the aim of having a good time, without dependency. By continuing to spin the reels, we can obtain new winning combinations and optimise our bankroll.

What are the differences between playing online and land-based casino slots?

In terms of operation, there are hardly any differences between the two modes of play. The distinctive nuance lies, above all, in the players’ personal experience when interacting with these slots.

Of course, to enjoy a physical *slot* it is essential to travel to the casino where it is located. Once there, you stand in front of the machine, enter the amount and press the button. It is a routine, almost a liturgy, which is shared with the other users of the adjacent machines. As a result, the perception of other people’s sounds and emotions influences the overall experience. This is not the case when we are alone in front of a computer or other electronic equipment. However, some of these effects are virtually reproduced in these online gaming environments.

Of course, online slots can be enjoyed anywhere, anytime, without the need to travel. All you need is an Internet connection and a suitable device at hand. It is, of course, generally a more solitary and isolated experience.

Virtual slot gaming, on the other hand, is more dynamic and complete. The online environment itself favours the incorporation of mini-games, bonuses and other additional formats which, together with the increasingly spectacular graphics, guarantee other impressive sensations that are never enjoyed when playing physical slot machines.