The Latest Trends in the Online Slots Industry
By Space Coast Daily // August 16, 2023
Whether you are an avid gambler or have never visited a casino before, slot machines are probably the first thing that comes to mind when you think of betting.
It is one of the oldest forms of gambling, invented in 1887 by Charles Fey. Since then, slots have come a long way and undergone significant changes, although the essence remains the same: make a combination and get paid.
These days, iGaming giants and young studios are paying considerable attention to video slots. They are experimenting with unique themes, symbols, bonus boosters, and visuals. This review will tell you about the latest trends in the online slots industry, changing your favorite games for the better.
3D Graphics and Animations
Betsoft is considered the pioneer of 3D slots in the industry. It was the first to use this technology, and its titles like “Safari Sam” and “A Night in Paris” revolutionized the iGaming market. It was followed by Microgaming, NetEnt, Play’n Go, and other providers trying to take the lead in this race.
These days it is almost impossible to find 2D slots among the newest releases. Developers are actively using realistic symbols, endowing them with additional animations. Therefore, players often observe moving characters and individual objects that provide full immersion in the gaming world.
Free Practice
Given the sheer number of annual releases, most players don’t have the bankroll to cover at least half of these slots. Therefore, the demand for demo games is skyrocketing. Essentially, it is the same gaming session as if you were playing for real money. However, it takes place without your deposit.
By starting a demo slot, you will get a virtual bankroll to spin the reels in test mode and understand how a particular slot works. This option is available in the most popular online casinos and specialized platforms like https://drfun-gry.com/ with the hottest video slots. Once you understand how this or that machine works, you can try your luck in real bets.
AI Technologies
Artificial intelligence has found its way into the iGaming industry. As of late, it has been used to personalize the gamers landscape. By collecting and learning information about players’ preferences, AI shows bonus offers and slots they will be interested in.
From the perspective of virtual casinos, artificial intelligence helps them keep customers interested. At the same time, gamblers get what they are most likely to use, from bonuses to the latest slot releases. It’s a winning strategy for everyone.
Megaways
This feature was first used in 2016 in one of the Big Time Gaming slots. Since then, the number of such games has grown significantly, and they are found in the portfolio of all reputable providers. Here’s how Megaways machines work.
- Each reel contains a different number of symbols, typically ranging from 2 to 7.
- Winnings are awarded when symbols on neighboring reels match.
- Traditional paylines are not used.
- Megaways represent ways to win. Their number varies in each round and can reach 7,776, as in the Jungle Gold slot from Onlyplay or 117,649, as demonstrated in the Wild West Gold slot from Pragmatic Play.
Players can significantly fill their pockets with regular wins by using Megaways instead of a fixed number of traditional lines.
Virtual Reality Technology
VR has improved almost all entertainment-related industries and has even succeeded in iGaming. Based on this technology, new-generation casinos offer a unique gambling experience with a fully immersive virtual world.
NetEnt and Microgaming were among the first to utilize VR in their products. Putting on the appropriate headset and launching one of these slots (Jack and the Beanstalk, for example) will instantly immerse you in the virtual world. You will be able to move, make combinations, and perform other actions as close to the real world as possible.
Cooperation with Popular Franchises
Investigating how to grab players’ attention, some providers have turned to iconic musicians, actors, and even movie studios. This has resulted in such legendary video slots as:
- “Guns N’ Roses” from NetEnt.
- “Jurassic World” from Games Global.
- “Batman vs Superman” from Playtech.
Based on popular movies, cartoons, and games, these slots attract more attention than any others. Obviously, the number of such titles will increase in the future. This means you’ll have a chance to meet your idols and earn good money by making combinations and using bonus boosters.
More and More Bonuses
Videoslots are characterized by simple rules. However, it is also one of the fastest ways to win real money at any online casino. Plus, players have several ways to reach the jackpot. Providers are adding built-in bonuses by developing the newest slots these days.
The list usually includes Wilds, Scatters, and Free Spins. But depending on the developers, players often find multipliers, gamble features (risk games), and even mini-games. Each booster is an additional opportunity to win real money, and the more often you use it, the faster you fill your pockets.
Video slots like Ronin StackWays (Hacksaw Gaming), Payday Express (Fantasma Games), and True Kult (Nolimit City) include a brand-new “Buy Bonus” feature. It allows you to activate a booster at any time by paying a few cents/dollars. You don’t have to wait for scatters to appear to trigger free spins, for example.
Mobile Slots
The mobile sector of the gambling industry has been valued at a record 62 million dollars in 2022. This figure is expected to reach 70 million in 2023. The rise in popularity of mobile slots is due to their convenience and accessibility. Enthusiasts spin the reels 24/7, regardless of their location and time zone.
Overall, video slots remain one of the most common gambling forms. They are filled with bonus features, VR and AI technology, 3D animations, and regular payouts. Plus, they are available on mobile devices, allowing you to bet around the clock.
