Most innovative online slot features of recent years
Wild symbols are two of the most innovative variations of this classic feature, expanding wilds and sticky wilds. Expanding wilds grow to cover an entire reel, creating multiple winning combinations across different paylines. Its feature is often triggered randomly, adding an element of excitement to the game. Sticky wilds remain locked for several spins, giving players multiple chances to create winning combinations with the wild symbols. These two wild features make for exciting gameplay and increase the potential for big wins.
Interactive bonus games
Bonus games have a popular feature of online slots, offering players a break from the chance to win additional prizes. For example, some bonus games may involve shooting targets, choosing paths on a map, or even playing a simple mini-game. These interactive bonus games add a new layer of fun to online slots, giving players a more interactive way to win prizes.
Free spins with special features
Free spins have always been a favourite bonus feature of online slot players, and in recent times, developers have started to add special features exclusively within the free spins rounds. These might include extra wilds, multipliers, or changing symbols. For example, during free spins, low-paying symbols could be replaced with high-paying ones, or wild symbols could come with multipliers attached. These features within the free spins rounds make for a more rewarding experience, often leading to bigger wins.
Multi-level progressive jackpots
Progressive jackpots have long been a drawcard for online slot players, offering the chance to win life-changing sums of money. Some slots have introduced multi-level progressive jackpots, allowing players to win at different levels. These jackpots are often triggered by filling reels with specific symbols, and the more reels filled, the higher the jackpot won. It adds a new level of excitement as players strive to fill the reels and win the top prize.
Cascading reels and symbol drops
Cascading or tumbling reels are a feature where winning combinations disappear. Creating the potential for multiple consecutive wins from a single spin. Symbol drop mechanics are similar, often with increasing multipliers or special features triggered by successive wins. These features provide more winning opportunities and add a unique visual element to the gameplay.
Cluster pays and multi-way wins
Traditional online slots typically pay out when matching symbols land on specific paylines, but some recent innovations have introduced cluster pays and multi-way wins. Cluster pays slots award wins when groups of matching symbols land adjacent, often in a grid format without set paylines. Multi-way win slots offer multiple ways to win by paying out for matching symbols in any position across the reels, often with hundreds or even thousands of potential winning combinations.
Story-driven slots
While the main draw of online slots is the chance to win prizes, many players also appreciate a strong theme and engaging narrative. The pentaslot games are on the rise, offering players intricate storylines and characters that develop as they advance through various levels or bonus rounds. These slots boast captivating cutscenes and animations, elevating the gaming experience beyond mere reel spins.
Virtual reality slots
With the rise of virtual reality technology, it was only a matter of time before online slots entered this immersive new medium. VR slots are virtual casinos or a themed environment where people play their favourite games in a new way. The VR format adds a level of immersion that wasn’t possible before, allowing players to reach out and interact with the slot machine, choose their bets, and celebrate their wins in a lifelike virtual setting.
