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Classic slots

When we say classic, we mean the originals, the innovators, the slots that made slots what they are today. So, let’s talk about classic slots. Where they started, where they are now, and what they’re like to play for those ready to move from the timeless land-based slot machines to the impressive and ever expanding online slot world.

All about Classic slots games

The atmosphere inside a real casino can have a profound effect on slot players, from the clinking sound of coins to the loud buzzing of the slot machines, it can seem like a different world. At 21.co.uk, we know that our players might search for that feeling online, now that times have changed and mobile slots are so popular, so we want to provide all of the information you need to find the perfect classic slot for you. Whether it's for the nostalgia, or because it's something different from the more sought-after video slots, let's talk about classic slots.

If you already enjoy classic slots, then we'll also show you our favourite classic slots that you can play right here on 21.co.uk.

What are classic slots?

Back in 1894, Charles Fey made what has come to be known as the first slot machine, which had three spinning reels and one single payline. This machine was known as the liberty bell and is what all slots, both online and land-based, are made in the image of.

We call them classic slots because of their similarities to the liberty bell and what it evolved into over many years in land-based casinos. Players of these slots would deal with classic fruit symbols, and similar images such as bars, stars, bells, and sevens in all different capacities and designs.

Classic slots usually have only three reels with three symbols per reel, and minimal paylines ranging from one to three lines. Generally speaking, these kinds of casino games didn't have many bonus features, if any at all, but modern versions that you see online tend to offer more to the player while keeping the classic slot theme.

So if you're used to land based casinos, you'll know what we mean by classic slot machines. The online versions of these just bring that nostalgic atmosphere to your mobile, or desktop, to play in a more familiar environment when the chance to get out and sit in a real casino is limited. We think our players will enjoy the chance to relive or get a fresh feel for the classic slots casino vibe through our online games.

What are online classic slots?

To expand on the point above, let's delve into online classic slots and how they differ from traditional casino slots and online video slots.

All online casinos offer classic slots in some capacity, but they're not all the same. Most classic slots will indeed offer a traditional layout, where paylines are minimal and range from just one single payline to three paylines per spin, but that does not mean that there aren't any classic slots with 5x3 reels, or no scatter symbols. The title of “classic slot” has more to do with the look and feel of the slot, than the number of reels and paylines it holds.

The main things we love to see while we play classic slots are the symbols. Fruit slots are huge when it comes to the classic games, so much so that we just can't imagine a slot of this type without them. Alongside fruit symbols, we have the obvious pub slot symbols, like bells, bars, and sevens. All of these make up what a classic slot is known for, and make it easily recognisable to the genre.

Online slots can't give you the fully immersive experience that you feel when you're physically inside a casino, but they definitely try their best to be authentic. All of the magical sounds you recognise, like the ringing of a bell, and the tinkle of the spinning reels, will be present when you play classic slots. Of course, the benefit of playing classic slots online is that you can mute these noises if they're just not for you, and still enjoy the immersive gaming experience you're looking for. It's almost as if you can picture the classic slot machine in front of you.

What kind of bonus features do classic slots have?

Usually, this is a rather limiting factor to classic slots. Generally speaking, you won't see the addition of bonus games on these kinds of reels, but some classic online slots have been known to give a progressive jackpot, or even scatter symbols, while still sticking to the basics. There are also certain games that offer classic slots features such as multipliers, or the occasional respin, too, so it's not like there are no bonus games at all, but they certainly won't be as fit to burst with features as some video slots.

If you're looking for a classic slot with features such as the ones we mentioned above, then make sure you read about what we consider to be the best classic slots.

Why choose classic slots?

It's no lie that video slots are great for features and variety, but you can't forget the finesse of a classic slot. Since this genre is what started slot games off as popular casino games, the simplicity is almost refreshing to see in modern day slots. So we recommend this style of slot game for our online casino players, as a break from the abundance of video slots. Taking a step back to admire the classics is something we can all do from time to time.

How do classic slots work?

Back to the basics, classic slots play as simple as possible. Stake your bet on the slots like you would with any other online slot game, then watch the reels spin and hope for winning combinations of symbols. As we already mentioned, classic slot games usually only have between one payline and three paylines, though this is not exclusive. Some have bonus features like multipliers, and usually, the base payouts for these symbols can be quite good. These are the features that can offer big win potential without the need for bells and whistles.

What are the best classic casino slots?

When it comes to classic slots, there's plenty to choose from, even though this theme tends to have a set pattern to follow, slots developers have managed to keep a fair bit of variety in their classic slots games, so here are some of our favourites.

20p Slot

You can't get much more traditional than 20p slot. This is a classic slot game with 3x3 reels, five paylines, and an abundance of traditional symbols similar to those you find on fruit machines. Despite being called 20p slot, the bet range does vary, but the winning combinations don't always require three of a kind to generate a win. It's a super throwback to a classic slot machine.

Play 20p Slot

Hot Slot: 777 Crown

Hot Slot: 777 Crown is a modern classic. The reels are littered with fruit symbols, sevens, and a very special crown scatter which substitutes other symbols, but the style of the game is sleek and modern, with 20 paylines. Payouts range from 1x stake for three lower paying symbols to a huge 250x stake for five of the highest paying seven symbols.

Play Hot Slot: 777 Crown

Fire Joker

Fire Joker is a perfect example of a classic slot with a multiplier feature. If you can fill the reels with the same symbol, a multiplier wheel will appear. Spinning the wheel can potentially give out a multiplier of up to 10x. Respins of fire will offer another spin for two reels with the same symbols, but no winning combinations. This is definitely a classic with a twist.

Play Fire Joker

More Classic Slots on 21.co.uk

These are just a couple of examples of classic slot games you'll find on online casinos. Other games like this aren't hard to find on 21.co.uk, with our huge catalog of online slots spanning many different genres. But we do hope you'll try out the classics.

Take Time to Think | BeGambleAware.org | 18+

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