Free Video Slots

Written by Andreea Udescu

Reviewed by Liliana Costache

On our Free Video Slots page, you will find an impressive collection of video slots games that you can play in demo mode, no download required. What is more, your personal information stays with you, as our instant play slots do not need it to operate. So, what are you waiting for? Get to spinning, and if you want to find out more about video slots don’t forget to read the full text below.

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The SlotsMate Guide to Video Slots

WHAT ARE VIDEO SLOTS?

Video Slots are hands-down the most popular type of online casino game, as opposed to the land-based casino industry where table games occupy all the leading positions. They are described as an online version of a slot game that includes virtual symbols and reels. They are usually associated with 5-reel and multi-payline slot machines games.

The very first video slot machine was created in 1976 in California by Fortune Coin Co, which was bought by IGT two years later in 1978. It consisted of a special display mounted on a gaming cabinet, and it didn’t take long for the Nevada State Gaming Commission to approve it.

It was in 1994 that the first online casino with integrated video slots appeared on the market, and it famously ran on Games Global software. Over the years, video slots have grown to become more robust thanks to higher quality audio, better graphics, and overall more exciting features. For this reason, they evolved into a fan favorite among experienced and novice punters alike.

VIDEO SLOTS VS. CLASSIC SLOTS

At this point, you might be wondering what the actual difference between video slots and their classic siblings actually is. This separation is best illustrated by the following four features that we have discussed at length below.

Number of Reels. The first noticeable difference between video slots and classic slots has to do with the design of the machines themselves. While classic slots generally stick to the traditional three-reel model and seldom venture outside this approach, video slots can have five reels, nine reels, or even more.
Number of Paylines. As a consequence of their minimalist design, classic slots usually have only one payline that runs across their center. Nevertheless, it can integrate up to five, but this is still meager when considering that video slot machines possess as many as active 1,024 paylines within the same game.
Special Symbols. A handful of classic slots do indeed contain special features such as wilds or multipliers, but generally, these mechanics are reserved for video slots. Modern machines contain all sorts of icons, such as scatters, bonus round symbols, free spin symbols, and so on. Plus, they are usually executed with superb lifelike graphics.
Bonus Rounds. If there is one thing that truly sets video slots apart from classic slots, it is certainly the bonus round feature. What traditional machines lack in this department is more than made up for by the huge variety of in-game events offered by their modern counterparts. Bonus rounds in video slots tie in with the theme of the games beautifully, and the quality of the imagery is always top-notch. This provides the player with a completely immersive gambling experience.

VIDEO SLOTS SPECIAL FEATURES

What sets video slots apart from other online casino games? In this section of the text, we will discuss the five particularities they possess that bring excitement to their gameplay.

Free Spins. Triggering free spins inside a video slot game means that you get the chance to spin the reels a number of times without having to pay for it. This feature is activated by three or more Free Spins symbols, and the value of your current bet is kept per each spin. An extremely popular slot game with this feature is Pharaoh’s Fortune by IGT.
Bonus Round. Also known as bonus games, bonus rounds are extra sections within a video slot that don’t cost you anything to play, but still offer you money or other prizes. It is usually triggered by three or more Scatter Symbols. Pick a Box is the most popular type, followed by mini-games, the spinning wheel, and cascades. You can observe the Spinning Wheel bonus round in Pink Panther, a video slot created by Playtech.
Multiplier. Multipliers are additional mechanics within a video slot game that increase your winnings for a spin by a particular number. Some games have them built-in, while others offer them as a fun little bonus triggered by various combinations of symbols on the reels. Watch the multiplier feature in action in the Gonzo’s Quest video slot by NetEnt presented below.
Wild Symbol. The wild symbol functions as a Joker of sorts, replacing other icons in any winning combination. What is more, some video slots have a sticky wild symbol that remains in the same position on the reels during a spin for the chance to win even more money. One slot game where you can notice sticky wilds in action is the Creature from the Black Lagoon slot by NetEnt.
Scatter Symbol. Besides triggering bonus rounds, scatter symbols also increase the amount of cash you win on a spin regardless of the position they occupy in the reels and their number. They don’t even need to appear on an active payline either! Stormcraft Studios Football Star is a prime example that illustrates this.

HOW TO WIN AT VIDEO SLOTS

There is no strategy that will teach you how to win at video slots or guarantee this in any way. However, you can do a few things to increase your odds. The first and most recommended line of action in this case is to choose machines with a high Return to Player (RTP) rate. We have taken the liberty of compiling a list with five of the highest paying video slots on our website, and they are as follows:

In addition to this, you can also use bonuses to your own benefit. Some online casinos offer a no deposit bonus of free spins that can help you get started and increase your balance for lengthier gameplay. In addition to this, all online casinos give out generous first deposit bonuses that will work out to your advantage as well.

ENJOY VIDEO SLOTS FOR REAL MONEY

Did our free slots convince you to start playing for real money? Then head on over to the Real Money Slots section on SlotsMate.com and discover the 1990 online casinos where you can do just that. There, you can see information such as software details and feedback left by actual players. In addition to this, every online casino has its own dedicated review page where can browse through even more details. So, what are you waiting for? Find your new favorite gaming arena and start spinning!

Free Video Slots FAQ

How do video slots work?

If you’re familiar with a traditional land-based slot machine, its video alternative works in the same way. The only difference is that the handle has been replaced by a Spin button. Also, video slots allow developers more freedom when it comes to graphics and features - so you can expect a video slot to be a more exciting and rewarding experience than a physical one.

What are the most popular video slots?

It’s really hard to pick a popular slot because that depends on so many factors. Are we talking graphics or gameplay? Are we only looking at the RTP and volatility? On top of that, what we might consider a good slot, you might regard as a not-so-great one. You can take a look at our Best Slots and choose one that appeals to you. They’ve all been voted by SlotsMate users just like you.

Who makes the best video slots?

Developers such as NetEnt, MicroGaming or Playtech have been in the game for decades. With that experience behind, you can bet that they have some of the best slots available on the market. However, there are also some up and coming smaller studios that look promising. So maybe these names will change in the future.

Can I play free video slots?

There are lots of video slots you can play for free. In fact, most of them come with a free demo version. While you won’t make real money with slot demos, you can get a risk-free taste of the experience. And once you have your strategy down, you can head over to our Real Money Slots section and play your favorite slot for real cash.

Are video slots legit?

Yes, most of the video slots on the market right now are legit. The professional studios have their video slots tested by accredited third parties to ensure that they’re fair and random. You also have to make sure you’re playing at a legit casino. The ones in our Real Money Slots list are accredited, safe and legal. So you won’t have to worry about not receiving your money after a big win.

Page Contributors

Andreea Udescu

Senior Content Writer

About Andreea Udescu

A meticulous and versatile writer with more than four years of restless experience working in the iGaming industry.
A talented writer with a penchant for statistics and data analysis.
A cheerful reporter, always up to date with the latest industry news.

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Liliana Costache

Online Gambling Content and Localization Manager

About Liliana Costache

Extensive background of over 10 years in the iGaming industry, of which 5 years in a Content Manager role;
Certified in the German, Swedish, and EU Gambling Regulatory Framework by the iGaming Academy;
Proficient in crafting captivating and SEO-optimized content for more than 15 years;
Over 25 years of experience in translation and localization, certified by The Romanian Ministry of Justice.