Slot machines have been one of the most popular forms of gambling for ages. While the classic old machines were simple with a maximum of 3 possible winning combinations, modern technology has brought about a revolution in how we can play slots. Video slots offer endless winning possibilities with breathtaking themes, audio, and visuals. Still, a bunch of players still prefer the classic experience of spinning the reels. 

In this article, I will break down the main difference between classic and video slots helping you find the best game for your preferences. 

How Do Classic Slots Work?

Classic slots, often called traditional or mechanical slots, showcase the timeless essence of casino gaming. These games typically feature three reels and their history goes back to the original Liberty Bell machine, incorporating familiar symbols like fruits, bars, and lucky sevens. Their straightforward gameplay, dazzling lights and sounds, and single payline structure make them perfect for beginners who are still learning how to play slots as well as old school and boomer generation of players who like to keep things simple and nostalgic. 

Key features of classic slot machines are:

• 3-reel configuration with limited number of possible winning combinations.
• Single or limited paylines.
• Traditional symbols.
• Straightforward paytable.
• None to minimal bonus features.
• Higher volatility (less frequent big payouts). 

Video Slots Structure & Features

Thanks to technological advancements, video slots have taken our slot gaming experience to the next level, combining cutting-edge technology with innovative gameplay mechanics. These modern marvels offer immersive experiences through stunning graphics, realistic 3D visuals, engaging storylines, audio effects, and multiple bonus features that keep players entertained for hours.

Let’s have a quick look at the unique features of video slots that you can find online and at physical casinos:

• Multiple reels (usually 5 or more).
• Numerous paylines (more than 1024 ways to win).
• Advanced graphics, animations, and audio effects.
• Interactive bonus rounds.
• Multiple special features, like Scatters and Wilds. 
• Varying betting options.

Classic Slots vs. Video Slots: Key Differences Explained

When it comes to choosing a slot game to play, the main factors are personal preferences and gambling budget. Still, given the differences between traditional and modern slot machines, the number of choices is literally infinite. Below you will find a complete difference between the two versions so you can choose the best game for your personal gambling needs. 

1. Game Design, Graphics, & Visuals

Classic Slots are known as "traditional" or "retro" slots. Such machines use simple graphics, with a limited number of reels (usually three) and basic symbols such as fruit, bars, and sevens. The visual experience is plain, minimalistic, and often flat, aiming to evoke the nostalgic feel of the early mechanical slot machines.

Video slots, on the other hand, leverage modern technology and feature high-quality 3D graphics, animations, unique themes, special visual and audio effects to provide much more realistic and engaging gaming experience. Video slots have many variations, online and physical, all with symbols and background scenes that change and evolve throughout the game. Many games  also feature short animated clips that play during wins or bonus rounds.

2. Reels and Paylines

Classic slots are known for their classic three reels and a limited number of paylines (usually one or a few). The simplicity of the setup and payout system makes them easier to understand and play, making them ideal for beginner slot players and those who enjoy nostalgic slot gameplay.

Video slots typically come with five reels. The latest generation of video slots feature six or even seven reels with numerous paylines— hundreds or even thousands. What makes video slots payline interesting is the patterns. In addition to traditional horizontal paylines, vertical, diagonal, and even zig-zag paylines are found in video slot games. Some games include special features like "ways to win," where you win as long as matching symbols land on adjacent reels, regardless of their position.

3. Themes and Special Features

Not only is the gameplay simple, themes and features are also plain and limited in classic slots. While some games may feature a wild symbol or a simple bonus round, most classic slots do not have complex themes or interactive features. The focus is more on the basic slot mechanics of spinning the reels and hoping for a winning combination.

However, unusual themes and unique features are what make video slots so appealing. Most games come with elaborate themes based on movies, TV shows, mythology, history, sports, horror, and more. In addition to a wide range of themes, video slots offer a variety of bonus features, such as free spins, multipliers, wilds, scatters, and mini-games, making the games more engaging and increasing the potential winnings. 

4. Jackpots and Payouts

Traditional slot machines typically have a simpler payout structure due to the limited number of paylines and possible winning combinations. The jackpot is usually smaller, as the game is more straightforward and doesn’t involve the complexities of multiple features. While you may find a classic slot with a progressive jackpot, it is quite rare. 

Video slots, on the other hand, are known for their crazy jackpots, particularly when they include progressive jackpots. The complexity of the game mechanics, combined with the bonus rounds and special features, often means that video slots offer bigger payouts and higher potential winnings. Such slot machines can also be tied to networked or linked jackpots, which increase as more players contribute to the prize pool and make the potential prize even more crazy. However, most progressive video slots belong to the high volatility category, meaning they pay out big prizes less often.

5. Game Speed and Betting Options

Due to the fewer reels and paylines and simpler gameplay, classic slots tend to be faster-paced. This means players can spin through many rounds in a short period. Betting options are often limited to lower denominations, making them ideal for those who are on a tight budget. 

Video slots offer a variety of betting options and limits, allowing players to choose from a wider range of bet sizes. Compared to simple slot machines, video slots are slower due to animations and bonus rounds. While the basic spins are fast, bonus features can make games longer. 

6. RTP or Return To Player Percentage

RTP, or Return to Player, represents the percentage of the money that a slot machine will pay back to players over time per all the wagered money. For instance, a slot with a 96% RTP will pay back $96 for every $100 wagered, on average, over a very long period(after millions of rounds of play).

Classic slots come with lower RTP values, typically ranging from 91% to 95% due to their simpler gameplay, fewer features, and lower operating costs for casinos. With less complexity, the house edge becomes relatively higher, offering players a lower return over time.

On the contrary, modern video slots typically have higher RTP% ranging between 94% and 99%. While the RTPs can vary among video slots, they are all better than classic slots due to the more complex gameplay, the inclusion of bonus rounds, free spins, and advanced features that provide more winning opportunities.

Which Slot Machine Is The Best For You?

As mentioned above, choosing the slot machine to play depends on your personal preferences, bankroll, gambling style, and betting skills. 

Classic slots offer a simple and nostalgic gameplay, promising more frequent smaller prizes in low-volatility games. Such games are ideal for beginner slot and casino players, those with limited gambling budgets, and players who love nostalgic slot experiences. 

Video slots are more complicated featuring more features, reels, paylines, and winning possibilities. While online and physical video slots are quite flexible in betting options, such games often feature higher denominations with some features being only activated when you bet the maximum. 

Final Thoughts

The ultimate choice between classic and video slots largely depends on what you’re looking for in your slot game experience. If you prefer simplicity, nostalgia, and a quick-paced game with decent payouts, classic slots might be the best choice. However, if you are looking for a feature-rich experience with dynamic themes and the potential for larger jackpots and more winning opportunities, video slots will likely offer the most excitement.

Both types of slots have their unique charm, and whether you’re playing for fun or aiming for big wins, there’s a game to suit every preference. Navigate our world-class slots library, claim your welcome bonus and start spinning the reels now!

FAQ

Which type of slots generally offer more paylines?

Video Slots usually offer significantly more paylines than Classic Slots with hundreds or even thousands of paylines. 

How does RTP differ between classic vs. video slots?

While there's no guarantee, Video Slots, on average, tend to have higher RTP percentages than Classic Slots.

What is the best slot game to play?

It depends on your preferences. However, a slot machine, whether classic or video, with the highest RTP is always the best choice. 

Classic slots are better for high-rollers or video slot games?

Video Slots with high betting limits, higher denominations, and progressive jackpots are better choices for high stakes slots players.