One of the reasons why slots are so popular is because they are so diverse, but apart from bonuses and themes, another unique feature is the gameplay. Even if slots are simple to play, there are so many mechanics that change how the gameplay unfolds. Before you start spinning the slot, check out the paytable to find out how it works in specific.
Normal Reels and Rows
Traditional slot games come with a fixed number of reels and rows. It’s usually three or five reels with three rows. Each reel spins on its own, and if the symbols land in the pattern as one of the paylines, you instantly get a win.
This kind of gameplay is pretty classic, which is why it’s a popular option in slots. The payline patterns can move horizontally, diagonally, or in zig-zag patterns depending on the game you are playing. Some modern versions allow you to use multiple paylines while others might only have one.
You can find this style in classic-themed slot games, retro-style designs, and games aimed at straightforward gameplay.
Cascading Reels
Cascading reels, also known as tumbling or avalanche reels, is another gameplay, and this time, it changes how the spins move. Instead of stopping once the symbols have landed on a winning paylines, the symbols disappear and new ones fall into place. If you’re lucky, those symbols can create another win and this keeps on happening until there are no more wins.
Each cascade is evaluated separately, allowing multiple outcomes from a single spin. This mechanic creates a sense of continuous motion, and gives you a chance to land multiple wins with just one spin.
Cascading reels can be found in modern video slots, bonus features in a slot, or visually dynamic slot designs.
Megaways
Megaways is a gameplay system that uses a different number of symbols on each reel. Instead of fixed rows, each reel can display a different number of symbols on every spin. This can create thousands of possible symbol combinations.
The total number of potential outcomes constantly change, which is why this gameplay style is important. Megaways slots are popular for their complexity and different layouts. You might have a different number of reels per row and the reel structure will change regularly.
Cluster Pays
Cluster pays slots move away from paylines entirely. Instead of waiting for the symbols to land on specific paylines, you win if you have a group or cluster of the same symbols appearing next to each other on the reels. When the reels spin and the symbols land close to each other, you win.
Clusters usually require a minimum number of matching symbols connected on any side. Once the cluster is formed, it triggers a win, and the symbols might be removed or replaced depending on the game design.
Expanding Symbols
Expanding symbols are a feature instead of a full gameplay system, but this can affect how a slot behaves. When certain symbols appear, they will instantly expand to cover an entire reel, row, or section of the grid.
This mechanic is usually used during bonus rounds or special spins, and adds more gameplay to the game. Expanding symbols can also interact with other mechanics. In fact, you can have expanding wilds or multipliers which give you more rewards.
Progressive Jackpots
Progressive jackpot slots are defined by a shared prize pool which will increase over time. Each time a player makes a bet, part of that amount will contribute to the jackpot. The jackpot amount continues to grow and grow until someone wins it.
There might be a local jackpot that’s specific to one game, or networked which is shared across multiple games or platforms.
Final Thoughts
Slot gameplay styles differ a lot. You can play those with classic reels and rows, or modern slots with cluster pays. Whether it’s cascading reels, expanding symbols, or progressive jackpots, there’s something for you. Even if all the slots are random, remember that gameplay is what makes an online slot interesting.
