Slot machines are one of the most popular games in both land-based and online casinos. For users, one of their biggest attractions comes from the wide variety of themes and types on offer, which make the players’ experience always new and fun. If there is one thing that all these slots have in common, it is their strong graphical component, whether they are classic or modern in style, there is a huge diversity of themes.
In fact, slot machine themes have more than just an aesthetic function. They all have their own specifications and symbols, and knowing them helps us to properly understand the dynamics of the game. There are two very popular thematic lines, within which we can classify the vast majority of the themes we encounter: slot machines with retro aesthetics and those with contemporary themes. But which are the best slot machines according to the players? Here we tell you which themes are the most successful.
The best retro-themed slots
Slot machines emerged at the end of the 19th century in the United States, and from the beginning they had quite particular characteristics that made them easily recognisable. They used fruit symbols, such as cherries, lemons or watermelons, the number 7, the word “BAR”, playing cards and the iconic Liberty Bell, which gave its name to the first physical machine.
All these symbols, inserted on the reels, refer to the history of slot machines and have become so associated with them that many machines still use them. This is the case of machines such as Starburst, Fruit Shop and Bonanza. And, no doubt, this charm of the past still attracts many players.
The most popular contemporary slots
This category includes many different types of slots that are very popular with players. In addition, the choice available has expanded enormously with the spread of online gaming, as developers use the visual aspect to differentiate themselves from the competition.
One of the strongest references is pop culture: films, series, video games… Collaboration with film studios and production companies has made it possible for us to play with our favourite characters. There is also a wide range of machines based on fantasy themes, such as Age of Gods or Book of Oz. Even programmes and phenomena of the last decades have found their place in this world, with themes such as Narcos, Torrente or Who Wants to be a Millionaire?
Which slot machines are the most popular?
As to which slot machines are most successful depending on the theme, it is not an easy question to answer. It depends mainly on the individual tastes of the players, but also on the type of game offered by each theme, as there are single coin slots, multiplier slots or progressive jackpot slots.
A few themes stand out, which we can classify as vintage, theme-specific and adventure. Among the former, the most popular vintage themes are Bonanza, with a Wild West theme, and Extra Chilli, based on classic slots with fruit symbols. As for specific themes, Starburst and its intergalactic world, or Turn your fortune with its lucky roulette wheel are the most successful. Finally, among the adventure themes, Jumanji and Gonzo’s Quest, based on the famous film production and the legend of El Dorado respectively, stand out.
