There are thousands of different UK online slots to choose from, and it can be difficult to figure out which type of game is best for you. However, once you’ve found your game you’re in for an exciting gaming experience tailored to what you enjoy.
In this article, we compare two of the most popular types of slots: classic slots and video slots. We’ll discuss their features, themes and gameplay styles, so that you can compare the two. For example, classic slots tend to have less special features than video slots – depending on your playing style and preferences, that may be a positive or a negative!
What Are Classic Slots?
Classic slot games are a firm favourite with our players. They’re inspired by the earliest physical slot machines, which featured fruity symbols like cherries and bananas on the reels. When slot machines were first invented playing for money was illegal, so the fruit symbols represented which flavour sweets the player could win.
Although today players are able to play fruit machine slots in the hopes of winning a real money prize, the theme continues to be incredibly popular in the video slots world.
Most of these games have a simple three-reel structure, and they might have bells and bar symbols as well as fruity ones. They usually have a lower volatility than video slots – in a nutshell, that means that the prizes on offer are smaller, but they tend to pay out more frequently. To find out more about volatility, we’ve written an article about slot volatility preferences for different player styles.
These games are perfect for UK slot players who feel nostalgic for fruit machines in pubs – but this time they can be played from the comfort of your own home.
What Are Video Slots?
Video slots are pretty much all slot games that do not fit into the ‘classic slots’ mould. They usually have five or more reels, fun animations and sound effects, bonus rounds and more. It’s common for video slots to incorporate modern gaming mechanics such as Megaways, multipliers and free spins rounds, and each video slot has its own theme and storyline.
From TV show-themed slots to animal slots, adventure slots and more, there are almost endless opportunities when it comes to video slots. For more info on the different types of slots available, check out our Beginner’s Guide to Online Slot Machines.
Key Differences Between Classic and Video Slots
Let’s take a look at some of the key differences between classic and video slots:
|
Classic Slots |
Video Slots | |
|
Reels |
3 |
5+ |
|
Features |
Limited |
Free spins,Multipliers, Megaways, Bonus rounds |
|
Themes |
Fruit |
Varied |
|
RTP ranges |
90 - 96% |
94 - 98% |
|
Pace of play |
Moderate |
Fast |
Which Is Better for Different UK Playstyles?
Different types of slot games appeal to different players. Of course, we’re generalising here, but players who don’t play slots often and are looking for a quick gaming session without too many complex bonus features. For this type of player, classic slots are an excellent choice. They can also be suitable for those with a smaller budget, since their volatility tends to be lower.
However, many players enjoy being immersed in a slot game that has a distinctive theme. For example, horror slots might be their thing, or slots based on TV game shows. For this type of player, video slots offer a huge variety to choose from. Players who love bonus rounds should certainly try video slots, as there are hundreds of bonus features to explore.
Where to Play Both at Slingo
You can play both classic and video slots at Slingo. If you’re not sure where to start, we’ve come up with a list of some of our favourites in each category below. We suggest playing games in demo mode first, so that you can get the hang of them before betting any money.
Classic Slots
Smoking Hot Fruits
Smoking Hot Fruits is a simple fruit machine-style slot featuring juicy cherries, lemons and plums among other fruity symbols. The gameplay is very straightforward, and the aim of the game is to get at least three matching symbols on a payline to win a cash prize. There are no bonus features, apart from a gold star Scatter that can award a prize for three matching symbols anywhere on the reels.The simplicity and no-frills style of this game make it ideal if you’re looking for a classic fruit machine experience that takes it back to basics.
Hit Bar Power Play
Hit Bar Power Play is a classic fruit machine-style slot game that’s ideal for beginners, or for those looking for a more pared-back game. Match up fruity symbols like grapes, plums and lemons for your chance to win a prize. Wilds can give you even more chances to win, and a Hit Bar Respin feature adds to the excitement.
Lucky Streaks
Lucky Streaks is a fruity-inspired slot with a unique format featuring ten 1x3 reels that spin simultaneously. Wins are achieved by getting a row of three matching symbols on a reel, with the possibility of winning up to ten prizes on each spin.Each consecutive win will light up a letter on the ‘STREAKS’ banner at the top of the reels. If you get seven wins in a row you’ll trigger the Jackpot feature, which features more valuable symbols on the reels. The next seven spins will be Jackpot spins, and after this the game will revert to normal.
Video Slots
Pirate Gold
Pirate Gold is an ocean slot with an epic pirate twist. The reels are positioned on a backdrop of stormy seas, with two ships visible in the distance. Find eight or more money bags on the reels for a chance to trigger the Lucky Treasure Bag feature, or fill all 20 reels with them for a chance to win a Grand Jackpot of 1,000x your bet!
Fishin’ Frenzy: The Big Catch
Fishin’ Frenzy: The Big Catch is a fun addition to the Fishin’ Frenzy franchise (what a mouthful!). If you’ve played the original game it will look quite familiar, but with a new meter at the side of the reels to collect fisherman symbols. Collect four fishermen for a chance to upgrade the cash value of fish symbols on the reels, as well as receiving five free spins.
Witches Cash Collect
The Witches Cash Collect slot is set in a spooky graveyard and features three mystical (and rather stylish) witches who will hopefully use their magic powers to give you a chance to win a prize. Find Cash Collect symbols on the reels for a chance to collect Coins, Spins and Diamond symbols too, which can give you a shot at winning one of four jackpot prizes.
FAQs About Types of Slots
Can I win more on classic or video slots?
Since all slot outcomes are completely random, it’s impossible to say whether you will win or lose on a particular slot. However, video slots tend to have a higher maximum win; if this is important to you, you can research games with the biggest max wins.
Are video slots harder to play?
Video slots aren’t necessarily harder to play, but they can be more complex. In both classic slots and video slots you’ll still just be pressing a button to spin the reels – but the features and bonuses on offer are likely to be more detailed in video slots.
Which type of slot has a better RTP?
Video slots tend to have a higher RTP than classic slots. RTP stands for ‘Return to Player’, and it’s the percentage of money staked on a slot that is expected to be returned over a long period of time. Some players choose slots with a high RTP because they theoretically pay out more than those with a lower RTP, but it’s important to remember that all outcomes in slots are completely random, and you are never guaranteed a win.
Play Classic and Video Slots at Slingo
Play all the latest classic and video slots at Slingo – a safe, secure online casino with all the freshest games. Choose from over 6,000 slot games, including Slingo, slots and live casino games at our easy-to-use site, whether you’re on desktop or mobile. Take advantage of our exclusive welcome bonus for new players and get 133 free spins when you sign up (min. £10 deposit). Always play responsibly, and never spend more than you can afford to lose. Try a demo of your new favourite slot at Slingo, whether it’s classic or video!
