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Comparing Classic And Video Slots

Comparing Classic And Video Slots

Added: February 26, 2014

At online casinos, the slots games are listed under two broad categories. One category is the 3-reels classic slot and the other category is the 5-reels video slot. The question that immediately arises is whether one is better than the other and if so then in what way.

The main criterion for judgment would be the average payout ratio. The mathematical minded player would be tempted to argue that because video slots have five reels, as compared to three reels in classic slots, jackpot payouts would be more difficult to attain in video slots. This is because the player has to get the same symbol in all reels for a jackpot payout. The software developers have a number of factors that they can play around with. The net result is that the average payout for all online slot machines is about 95%. Therefore based on this criteria neither type of slot machine is better than the other.

The second factor is the visual appeal of the slot machines. 3-reels slots resemble the old electromechanical slot machines once found in pubs and bars. By and large they choose from a standard set of symbols that include fruit icons, bell, seven and bars. The styling can vary from slot machine to slot machine. The 3-reels slots are more for those players who are sentimental about the traditional charm. Video slots are thematic. The symbols and graphics are organized around a theme that may be a sporting event or a festival. The ocean, fantasy and mining are other popular themes. The variety is limited only by the imagination of the software provider. The themes can be presented comically or realistically or artistically. Animated introductory clips, animated backgrounds and animated win combinations have become the hallmark of video slots. The latest video slots are based on themes of movies and television shows and carry audio-visual content from the original. These are known as branded slots.

Bonus features have become a part of slot machines. Very few of the classic slots incorporate bonus features. However, there is a sub category popularly known as fruit machines offered at some online casinos. These have features like nudge, hold and cash ladders. Contemporary video slots have a fantastic range of bonus games and this is where they score heavily against classic slots. The most common is the free spins round, where you get a number of spins without staking any amount but receiving the payouts. Then there are the second screen bonus games where you pick or match objects for extra credits.