From their humble beginnings, slot machines have evolved into immersive gaming experiences. In a bid to make them more appealing and to offer unique gaming experiences, game developers have introduced several new mechanics. These mechanics not only change the way games are played but also influence the potential for wins.
In this guide, we explore more of these newest slot machine mechanics!
What are Slot Machine Mechanics?
Slot mechanics dictate how symbols are presented, how they interact, and how players achieve winning combinations. With traditional slots, the mechanics were straightforward: spin the reels and match symbols on predetermined winlines.
Today’s mechanics are about more than just spinning reels; they’re about interactive gameplay, enhanced engagement, and increased chances.
Modern Slot Mechanics
Over the years, slot machines have transitioned from simple spin-and-win contraptions to dynamic gaming experiences. A myriad of innovative mechanics have surfaced, introducing varied gameplay and strategies. Below we discuss these mechanics, also highlighting notable developers and their top games.
Megaways ™
Originated by Big Time Gaming, Megaways offers a shifting reel system where the count of symbols on each reel can change with every spin. This dynamic setup creates opportunities for up to 117,649 ways to win. Prominent developers like Pragmatic Play and NetEnt have adopted this mechanic, resulting in popular games such as Dazzle Me Megaways, Power of Merlin Megaways, Big Bass Hold and Spinner Megaways, and Elvis Frog Trueways.
Hold and Win
Hold and Win or Hold and Spin slots come in many forms, but they all follow the same concept. When you land a certain number of bonus symbols on the reels, you unlock three respins. Typically, this feature allows you to “hold” or lock specific high-value symbols and then re-spin the remaining ones. This enhances the chances of forming high-prize combinations.
The first Hold and Win slot was Money Train, released by Relax Gaming in 2019, but Playson and 3 Oaks has taken the feature to the next level. Signature games with this mechanic include Royal Coins: Hold and Win, Ruby Hit: Hold and Win, and Scarab Boost: Hold and Win.
Cluster Pays™
Breaking away from traditional winlines, NetEnt’s Cluster Pays™ rewards players when they form clusters of matching symbols.
This mechanic is also found in games from developers like Relax and BGaming. You can play exciting Aloha: Cluster Pays™ at McLuck and enjoy big wins and free spins!
Megaclusters ™
The first Megaclusters ™ slot was created in 2020 by Big Time Gaming. It takes the original cluster slot mechanic and supercharges it. When you hit a winning cluster, the symbols are removed from the reels, and each symbol is replaced by four new symbols.
The most popular Megaclusters ™ slot at McLuck is Kluster Krystals Megaclusters by Relax Gaming. In this 5X5 slot, you need to form 8 symbol clusters to win, it also features cascading reels, symbol, and multiplier upgrades.
Nudge or PowerNudge
Nudging reels add an element of anticipation. When a potential win is in sight, the reels can “nudge” to reveal new symbols, turning near misses into wins. Pragmatic Play and Habanero have championed this mechanic, resulting in games like Rise of Giza PowerNudge, Goblin Heist PowerNudge, Happy Hooves, and Sweet PowerNudge.
Tumble, Avalanche or Cascading Reels
Tumble, Avalanche, and Cascading Reels all refer to the same slot mechanic. This mechanic sees winning symbols disappear, making way for new symbols to “tumble” in.
The Avalanche slot mechanic was invented by NetEnt and first appeared on Gonzo’s Quest back in 2011. Now numerous top providers like Pragmatic and Play’n GO have incorporated it into their slots. Some must-try cascading slots include Starlight Christmas, Barn Festival, Fruit Party 2, and Gates of Olympus.
Play Feature
A play feature allows you to play free spins or other special features instantly instead of having to wait for it to be triggered for extra spins.
A number of Pragmatic Play slots have the Play Feature, which is great for those players who want to chase big wins. Other exciting games at McLuck that have this slot mechanic include 5 Lions Megaways and Starlight Princess.
Double Chance to Play the Feature
A tweak to the previous mechanic, the Double Chance to Play the Feature offers players an opportunity to enhance their odds of naturally triggering a bonus feature. By playing extra coin spins, players increase their chances, adding a layer of strategy to their gameplay. For example, when you turn on Double Chance when playing Sweet Bonanza, you double your chance of hitting free spins. Eye of Cleopatra is another exciting Double Chance slot.
InfiniReels™ or Infinity Reels
An exciting and limitless mechanic, InfiniReels™ or Infinity Reels starts with a fixed number of reels. However, with each winning combination, an additional reel is added to the game. Theoretically, this can continue indefinitely, hence the “Infinity” name. This feature means that with each new reel, the potential win ways increase, leading to an adrenaline-pumping gaming experience!
Wrapping Up
The modern era of slot gaming is characterized by innovative mechanics that amplify engagement and potential rewards. These mechanics, enriched by leading game developers and showcased in popular titles, ensure a thrilling experience with every spin.
Play the latest slots with cutting-edge mechanics at McLuck.com. Sign up now and enjoy Cluster Pays™, Avalanche Reels, Megaways™, and every slot mechanic you can think of!
