Casino gaming, and online slots in particular, have become explosively popular of late. Some recent data sets suggest that the online gambling market in the U.S. alone will be worth more than $90 billion by 2023. And study after study indicates that while this market is comprised of a number of different games and activities, arcade-style slot machines are consistently among the main drivers of business.
Given this, it’s perfectly fair to say that online slots now make up a significant corner of the gaming world all on their own. And for that reason, it’s high time people start to recognize some of the individual games –– the same way we highlight console and PC games, or review the latest mobile releases. So, to that end, here’s our look at some of the best games in slots and related categories as we approach the latter months of 2022….
Cyberpunk City
Designed by Bovada, this game is a perfect example of just how much atmosphere gets packed into slot games these days. Cyberpunk City elevates a fairly standard slot mechanic by placing it within a gorgeously designed punk-future setting. A badass cyberpunk fighter watches over the reels, and the background changes from one ominous, neon-lit city alley to the next. All in all, it’s a simple game, but you wouldn’t know it the way you get swept up in its theme.
Aztec Blaze
It may not be something you consider upon first thought, but Aztec mythology actually has a fairly strong history in gaming. The Gamer wrote up a handy list looking back at some examples and helped us to recall everything from Aztec lore in Shadow of the Tomb Raider, to the delightful and iconic 1998 game Grim Fandango. (It also pointed out a title called Aztec: The Curse in the Heart of the City of Gold that we’re not familiar with, but may want to try….) And while it didn’t make this list, we think the Aztec Blaze slot is a worthy addition to the collection. The game’s stunning background seems to imagine the Aztec empire in all its glory, and reel icons call to mind everything from worldly riches to ancient gods. That said, the pan flute music is a bit much.
Rags To Witches
In most cases it’s improved visual quality that has made slots so much more fun (and popular) over the years. And there’s an argument to be made that Rags To Witches has some of the most beautiful graphics in the genre. This Halloween-themed slot is all about the spooky stuff: haunted manors, drifting ghosts, scattering bats, cackling jack-o-lanterns, and plenty of skeletons and witch imagery. Spinning the reels is like taking a ride through a playful, haunted ride of some kind. Particularly if you’re a fan of “Spooky Season,” it’s certainly one to try.
Stinkin Rich Slingo
We mentioned that we’d highlight slots and related categories, and Slingo is one such category. A Slingo game is one that includes elements of slot arcades and bingo games, with players spinning slots to fill in bingo cards with the results. These games have come a long way in the last two years or so, and the new Stinkin Rich Slingo title headlining the Gala Bingo Slingo section is a gem. Bizarrely but delightfully, the game essentially places cartoon skunks in the role of mythical dragons, in that they seem to be hoarding vast heaps of treasure – which you of course are attempting to win with your spins. It’s simple, but very well made and wholly enjoyable.
Big Top Bonanza
This Skywind-designed slot was introduced via a promo in which a carnival barker calls for you to “come and see the spectacular Big Top Bonanza Megaways!” The barker then covered circus-like bonus features, such as the appearance of a Strongman, or fortune-telling by a Mystic. This all sets the tone for a slot arcade that really does make you feel like you’ve fallen into a semi-mystical circus. Bright, smoothly animated, and endlessly creative, Big Top Bonanza is simply packed with carnival imagery, exciting features, and wonderful graphics. It’s a joy to play.
Game Of Thrones
The Game Of Thrones phenomenon has produced a lot of games in a relatively short time. As a piece at Collider pointed out just last year, these have included board games, strategy video games, card-style mobile experiences, and more. Too often forgotten amidst all of these, however, is this wonderful slot machine designed by Zynga. In this game, you get to join or create a “House” from the fictional world of Westeros, choose areas within that world to play in, and advance toward the Iron Throne with each win. It’s about as adventurous as a slot can get.
Slingo Centurion
We’ll round out the list with another Slingo game – this one based on the history of Roman Centurion soldiers. Building on the success of the Centurion slot by Inspired Gaming, this product from Slingo Originals takes place on what looks to be a Roman estate of some kind. Music suggestive of a march to battle plays in the background, and an animated Roman soldier hangs out by the reels. Ultimately, your goal is to advance said soldier along the “Road to Rome” through your Slingo wins, which provides the game with a fun sense of purpose beyond the reels and the bingo board.
We hope this has given you a clearer picture of an online casino gaming ecosystem that, frankly, deserves more attention for its excellent titles. Please feel free to explore some of our other game-related writing (casino and otherwise), and come visit us again soon!