With the advancement in technology and software development, online video slots have become the most played and common game variation. Besides the wide variety of video slots on the market, they are packed with appealing themes and 3D animations, huge jackpots and bonus rounds, special winning features and symbols.

The good thing with online video slots is that they accommodate both beginners and advanced punters. Online video slots have won a huge audience because they are very easy to learn and play. Unlike their classic cousins with a limited number of reels and paylines, online video slots have 5 reels and multiple possible ways of winning.

In this guide, we have covered all there is you need to know about online video slots including top video slot developers, video slot titles, and best online casinos.

History of Online Video Slots

The first ever created slot machine came into existence during the early 90s. The coin-operated machines were small, noisy and quite primitive compared to the modern slot machines. Players used to pull a lever to set the reels in motion.

Nonetheless, the first electromechanical slots were invented in 1960. They were more advanced in terms of jackpots and gameplay. The increased gameplay was as a result of the changes made on the springs and levers. Due to their designs, slot machines were later dubbed, 'one-armed bandit'.

It was Walt Fraley who invented and replaced the physical reels with a video screen adorned with virtual reels in the 1970s. Although the technology was still primitive, his invention was the groundbreaker of the modern beautiful video slots. However, most players feared the new invention as they did not understand how it operated.

A company known as IGT is the one that purchased Fraley's video slot idea and upgraded it to modern slot machines. By 1980, almost all American brick and mortar casinos were video slots to players. By the 1990s, video slots had become more advanced and popular. When the internet was invented in the late 90's they were the first to be offered by online casino operators.

Today, you will find the majority of video slots with HD graphics, 3D animations, excellent sound effects, not forgetting multiple special winning features and symbols like the wild symbol, the scatter symbol, the multipliers, and free spins.

Rules of Playing Online Video Slots

Video slots have no separate rules from the ones used in other online slot games. But it is important to understand that each video slot game comes with its own terms and conditions. And you can only access the terms and conditions after clicking on the exact video slot. This information is always available under the setting or the help button.

In order to win in a video slot, you need to land a specific number of symbols on one or more of the selected paylines. The possible winnings range from a few coins to life-changing millions of dollars in their jackpots.

Video Slot Features and Symbols

As aforementioned, many players are attracted to online video slots because of the special features and symbols. Whereas fruits and gems used to dominate the classic slots, video slots use high-quality symbols. The symbols used on every video slots is unique and it will use icons based on the game's theme. Here are the main special features and symbols you will find in today's online video slot games.

Wild Symbol

The wild symbols in a game can replace any other symbols to create more wins. They stand in the place of the 'joker card' in online slot games. This is more profitable if you land a payline with a row carrying three or more symbols.

Scatter Symbol

Scatter symbols are the highest paying in any video slot game and they normally resemble the theme used. These symbols reward players regardless of whether they land on active reels or not. In modern video slots, landing three or more scatters on reels will trigger a special bonus feature.

Multiplier Symbols

As the name suggests, the multiplier does just what is says- multiplying your winnings a specific number of times. They are always represented by numbers such as 5X, 9X, 8X, depends on the video slot game you are playing.

Free Spins

The free spins are the most popular video slot bonus features. They are rewarded to slots lovers to test new games on the market or as a chance to build the bankroll.

Gamble Feature

This feature lets you double your winnings for correctly predicting whether the next card will be red/black or the next number will be higher or lower than the last.

What is a Random Number Generator in Online Video Slots?

The random number generator (RNG) software is used to determine the outcome of not only video slots but other casino game variations too. This software selects numbers ranging from zero to several million or even billions after the spin button has been clicked.

What are the Wagering Requirements?

The wagering requirements in a game are the amount you need to bet in order to cash out your winnings into your main account balance. Most bonuses come with wagering requirements starting from 20X up to 50X the bonus and bet amount.

Who are the providers of online video slot games?

Online video slots are developed by several reputable software companies. They use the latest cutting- edge technology to supply games with luring features and bonuses. Some of the leading video slot developers in the iGaming industry include IGT, Net Entertainment, NextGen Gaming, Playtech, Betsoft, QuickSpin, Novomatic, Evolution Gaming and many others.

What are the tips for winning online video slots?

Despite the fact that online video slots require no prior skills in order to play, you need to apply some tips to boost your chances of winning huge rewards. Here are some basic video slot tips:

• Practice in free play mode before upgrading to real money.
• Never chase your losses.
• Study the paytable before you start playing.
• Set your limits before starting any game.
• Manage your bankroll.
• Always read the terms and conditions.

Where can I play the best video slots?

Online video slots are available in almost all casinos in the industry. However, the problem is choosing a reputable online casino to play your favorite slot. Factors such as licensing and fair play, the variety of games offered, types of payment options, and customer service need to be considered when choosing a good online casino. Some of the top best online casinos include:

• William Hill Casino
• 888 Casino
• Jackpotcity Casino
• LeoVegas Casino
• Betway Casino