Online slots are understandably one of the most popular games, with their immersive gameplay, ease of access, and a chance to win some money, attracting more players. However, if you’re new to the exciting world of online casinos, it can appear confusing at first.
Today’s online slots offer such a wide variety of choice and so many game features, it can be hard to know where to start. So, here’s our round-up of some of the most popular game features you need to look out for.
Free Spins
Free spins are offered to players by online casinos as an incentive or reward for their custom or loyalty. However, many of the latest online slots now offer free spins as an enticing in-game feature. This normally involves a ‘buy a feature’ chance for the player, allowing them to pick free spins.
They are usually awarded based on scatter count, but can sometimes be triggered by extra features such as multiplied wins or extra wilds. The great thing about free spins, is that they allow you to enjoy a spin of the reels – and potentially win some money – without having to part with any of your own cash. Great for beginners who want to gain some slot experience at little or no cost.
Respins
Some of the best online slots feature respins. A respin is essentially a free spin, but crucially, it doesn’t always start from the beginning. This potentially allows you to hit multiple winning combinations with just a single spin
For example, in some games, you may land a certain number of bonus symbols that will stay in place while you respond to a selected reel. Helpfully, the slot will display which paylines you can potentially win and the combinations that are available.
Respins continue for as long as you manage to hit winning combinations or the reels become full of bonus symbols.
Autoplay
If you’ve got a few things on the go or you’re a new player who just wants to simplify the whole gaming process, then Autoplay is for you. One of the most common slot features around, Autoplay allows you to carry on playing while you’re multi-tasking and is also a good idea for any beginners who are looking to learn the ropes.
You simply hit the autoplay button to start the feature and ask the slot to run for a set number of games. The game can be programmed to stop if losses mount or if you hit the jackpot. The game will also stop for any bonus rounds.
Wild Symbols
Wilds are one of the most popular slot features around and are among the most sought-after symbols as they give players the chance to multiply their winnings. These special symbols have the power to substitute for other symbols in the game, giving players a better chance of creating a winning combination.
Wild symbols are an exciting slot feature and they come in all shapes and sizes, often with impressive visual effects which add to the gaming experience.
Scatters
Scatter symbols, as their name suggests, can be scattered around the reels in no particular order, unlike regular game symbols which need to hit a payline. These special symbols have multiple functions that differ according to the online slot you are playing.
In some games, scatter symbols may activate certain bonus features such as free spin or bonus rounds. While in other slots they may behave as a substitute for other symbols or even multipliers. The more scatters you are able to land, the better your rewards will be.
Scatter symbols are often one of the best-paying symbols out there, and are usually characterized by a specific image that relates to the theme of the slot you’re playing.
Clusters
A cluster slot game has symbols that appear on a square or rectangle grid rather than classic reels. These unique games create wins when symbols land in certain groups, rather than on traditional paylines.
Gamers must try and secure a minimum number of matching symbols that appear adjacent to each other, horizontally or vertically, in order to form a cluster and win. The cluster size needed to win varies from game to game, but it is possible to achieve multiple wins out of just a single spin.
Clusters are a great choice if you’re looking for a different kind of slot or just want to take a break from traditional reel versions. Plus, there’s no need to track exactly which lines payout, and the unique grid format allows game developers more creativity. However, players new to slots may find it hard to keep track of all the symbols.
Online casinos
With thousands of slots to choose from online, including many themed and classic offerings, it’s easy to find a slot that will appeal to you and your lifestyle. But whether you’re looking for slots, roulette, poker, or blackjack, you’re guaranteed to find a game for you at an online casino.