It’s no revelation that, by this point, sequels are inevitable. We see it with movies, TV shows, and videogames, although it always leads to one question - do the sequels ever top the original? We believe it’s rarely the case with cinema and TV, while sequels tend to be an improvement when it comes to videogames. With all of this in mind, where do slots fall when it comes to sequels? We’re all online slots UK fans here at Slingo, so we got together to check the big-name gameplay, popularity, and design evolution of popular slot series!
What Are Slot Sequels and Why Do They Exist?
There are a few reasons why providers create followups and sequels to their slots. First off, there’s always a case of wanting to improve on a piece of work. Maybe the technology has improved, the team has no ideas, and the artists are itching to create better work. That said, all of this improvement tends to take place within the proven formula of the original, even if there are sequels that tend to break away wholly from the original.
Second, if a slot proves popular enough then it will, of course, have a fan base. While fans tend to be a dedicated bunch they still crave the new, which is where sequels come in. Like the developers the players always want something better, and sequels fit the bill in providing something new inside familiar wrapping. That’s why we get sequels to hit slots such as Bigger Bass Bonanza, Rainbow Riches Drops of Gold, and Gonzo’s Quest Megaways!
The Allure of the Original Slot Game
Think about the first time you played an original slot. It’s exciting, isn’t it? The theme is as novel as it gets, while the mechanics are ready to learn and master. This is why a new, original slot is so appealing! We’ve been around the slot block for a good while, so we remember the 2020 launch of Big Bass Bonanza, for instance. Admittedly this is a game that builds on the theme and mechanics of other fishing slots, but it still brought enough that’s new to the table to make it an exciting discovery in what was then a less populated genre.
This feeling of learning, and then mastering, a new slot is what helps a title retain its popularity. The original Big Bass Bonanza remains as popular as ever despite its receiving a massive amount of sequels. This feeling turns to nostalgia when it comes to older slots, such as Rainbow Riches. This Barcrest Irish slot has been around since 2008, and many people remember it as a physical machine at their local! This makes playing Rainbow Riches a time to reminisce about the older days, and how better they might have been.
What Do Sequels Bring to the Reels?
Still, if these original games are so great then why do they get sequels? We’ve previously mentioned the want to make something even better, which remains eternal. The visuals can always be improved, and an older game might require an updated version that plays better on smartphones and tablets. Let’s keep in mind the fact that players always look at the visuals first, while mobiles are one of the prime ways one plays games these days.
In addition to this, while we’re drawn to familiarity we also crave the new. As such a sequel is perfect, since it is an update of an already existing game. Here some sequels can bring much needed adjustments to the original, such as tweaks to the RTP and volatility or a different take on a bonus feature. Other sequels go the more radical take with wholly different mechanics. Since we’ve mentioned the Big Bass Bonanza and Rainbow Riches, it’s worth noting how both series have a Megaways version!
Metrics That Matter – Popularity & Performance
Are all sequels as successful as the original? The answer to this question is no, not always. The success of a game is based around player engagement, which is measured in a number of ways by online casino sites and providers. The first metric measures is play count, which is how many times the game is actually played. The second is return visit, where return players are measured by the online casino. Another insight that’s gathered is variance, which covers both how much players win while playing and how many times (if at all) they trigger its bonus rounds.
It’s interesting to note that sequels rarely manage to outperform the original in terms of longevity. For instance, the first Rainbow Riches and Big Bass Bonanza slots remain among the most popular in the UK, together with the classic likes of Starburst and Book of Dead. It’s perhaps a case of a developer getting the recipe, with its mix of RTP, variance, and win potential, just right the first time around.
Case Studies: Hits and Misses
We’ve been talking about the slot sequels vs originals clash for a while now, so what if we put this idea to the actual test? Here we’re taking three of the most popular slots in the UK and facing them off against one of their sequels. Which one will win?
Big Bass Bonanza vs Bigger Bass Bonanza
Big Bass Bonanza is the original Pragmatic Play slot, released to much success back in 2020. Bigger Bass Bonanza followed soon afterwards in 2021 with a promise to be, well, bigger! It does feature more rows, allowing for more paylines (12 compared to the original’s 10). The maximum win is also higher at 4,000x the stake, whereas with Big Bass Bonanza you can win up to 2,100x.
Rainbow Riches vs Rainbow Riches Megaways
The Megaways engine is a popular choice for slot sequels, as seen in Rainbow Riches Megaways. This boosts the number of available paylines to 117,649, leading to plenty of exciting spins when paired with the cascade mechanic. However the fun bonus rounds Rainbow Riches is known for has been cut in favour of a free spins and a Super Gem feature that can transform symbols into matching gems. Well, you win some and you lose some, right?
Gonzo’s Quest vs Gonzo’s Quest Megaways
Gonzo’s Quest Megaways was one of the biggest slots of 2020, and for good reason. It saw NetEnt and Red Tiger team up for a long awaited sequel to the 2011 original, and this one superseded Gonzo’s Quest in every way. Megaways and cascades lead to a big 21,000x max win, not to mention action that’s more volatile than that of the first game and massively improved visuals.
What UK Players Say
We’ve been sharing our opinions regarding slot sequels, but what do British players think? From what we’ve seen in forums and comment threads there’s a split between views. Some players enjoy the enhancements brought about by sequels in graphics and bonuses, while others are all for the simplicity and straightforward rhythm of the originals. Then there are those who suggest that the “better” choice between the original and sequel depends on one’s mood and playstyle, a view we often find ourselves agreeing with.
Slingo’s Take: There’s Room for Both
What’s our conclusion regarding the sequel slots vs originals debate? Simple - play both! We at Slingo offer both original slots and their sequels, allowing you to explore these games and find out which ones are best suited for you. Our suggestion is to first try the original slot, before checking out the sequel. This way you’ll try the first experience and then check out what the developer thought required enhancement. Whatever your preferences, we’re sure you’ll have more fun this way!
FAQs
What’s the difference between a slot sequel and a remake?
A slot sequel is an update on an original slot, one that’s often enhanced with new visuals and game mechanics as well as tweaks to the overall math behind the slot. A remake, on the other hand, recreates an original slot for new technology while leaving the original experience intact.
Do slot sequels usually have better RTPs?
This depends on the sequel, actually. Some sequels do improve on the RTP of the original, but others can leave it unchanged or even drop it slightly. Always check a slot’s About section to confirm its RTP.
Why do developers keep making slot sequels?
It’s because players keep playing them! Slot players want a mix of both the new and familiar, and sequels fit this bill perfectly.
Conclusion: Originals or Sequels — Which Reels Reign?
Whether you’re a stickler for the originals or a fan of sequels, Slingo will always have you covered as far as games go! While many think that the sequel is the “better” option, it’s always worth checking out the first slot in a series or franchise. Play them all, then decide which one is truly your favourite!
Of course, always play slots and their squeals responsibly. Set a bankroll for playing slots, and don’t forget these are games of chance. This means you should never chase your losses! So enjoy the world of slots, and do so safely and with peace of mind.
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