When you first open the slots at a casino, the reels will be the first thing you notice. Controlling them to spin and stop is a key part of the gameplay in online pokies and slots, but have you ever thought about how the reels work? Below, we will discuss them in more detail and consider the symbols you will be dealing with.
What are reels in slots?
In simple terms, reels are vertical positions in games that start spinning after the user presses the “Start” button. Usually, there are several reels in a game that display a certain number of symbols. The player’s task is to collect identical icons on the reels.
Each reel holds many symbols, which means that, theoretically, thousands of combinations can appear with each spin. The development of the Internet has led to changes in the principles of reels operation, while developers constantly seek options to enhance gameplay excitement.
Types of slots by number of reels
Today, users can launch slots and pokies online. Below, we will consider the most popular configurations that you can find in a casino.
- Three-reel slots. This is how most people imagine old fruit slot machines. Although most of these games imitate old one-armed bandits, some modern developers choose three reels to combine the old and the new.
- Five-reel slots. This is the most popular option, featuring a 5×3 grid. These are the best games for beginners in the gambling world, offering a set of bonus features and significant payout potential.
- Ten-reel slots. Recently, developers have expanded the technical parameters of online slots. Now, users can find entertainment with ten reels, numerous paylines, and various ways to win. Such games have complex mechanics and a large payout table.
- Cascading reels. Slots like Gonzo’s Quest and other Megaways have made this mechanic popular. In such games, if users receive payouts, a cascading sequence is activated, in which the reels spin again, or the symbols fall.
We recommend testing various categories of pokies online and slots to find the best option.
The most common symbols on the reels
Symbols are crucial in slots, as their combinations result in payouts. Such images are divided into high-paying and low-paying. High-paying ones offer maximum payouts. Let’s consider the main categories.
- Standard symbols. This is a fundamental set of images that provide users with payouts if they build the right combination. Generally, these symbols are closely tied to the game’s theme.
- Wild symbols. This is a broad category with various functions, including multipliers and substitutes for winning icons. Their primary purpose is to replace other symbols and contribute to forming winning combinations.
- Scatter symbols. They offer payouts every time they appear on the screen, regardless of their location. They can unlock bonus rounds or other special features.
Slots and pokies online have evolved over the years and will continue to do so. However, some things remain constant: users must spin the reels responsibly and remember that the results of such games depend primarily on their luck.