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Our online slot sites directory allows you to search for your favourite UK casino site by letter or number. You can also read in-depth reviews about each casino and thousands of slot games. We were one of the first online slot directories to show detailed information about each website, including available software providers and payment options. We have many dedicated sections designed to help you find the perfect site. You will find plenty of options if you are looking for the best slot sites offering no deposit slots, a free sign-up bonus, or just trusted slot sites.

We actively seek out brand-new casino sites and new online slot games daily to review for our site visitors. We then can tell you the good, the bad and the ugly. We do our best to provide the most up-to-date and accurate information for each casino site review page. This can be a painstaking and lengthy task, but we want our visitors to be given as much knowledge as possible before playing at a casino. We wanted to provide our site visitors with a thorough guide to the best UK online slot sites.

We are always looking for new slot sites that have launched so we can let our visitors be among the first to play. Commonly, when a brand new slots site launches, there is a more generous deposit bonus or some free spins, so it’s a great idea to check out our list of new sites frequently. We seek out the latest bonuses, including free spins and no deposit bonuses; we find many players like to try a slot site out and look around to see what’s on offer before depositing, which makes a lot of sense.

The popularity of online slots

Slots are extremely popular among players at online casinos. Many players favour them because they are easy to play and can offer the chance to win large prizes. Online slots come in various themes, so there is something to appeal to every player. Many online slots are also linked to progressive jackpots, which can grow to huge amounts and offer players the chance to win huge prizes. In addition, online slots are convenient to play because they can be accessed from any device with an internet connection so players can enjoy them at home or on the go.

Online slots became popular in the late 1990s, shortly after the first online casinos were launched. Playing slot games online allowed players to enjoy their favourite casino games from the comfort of their homes. The convenience and accessibility of online slots contributed to their popularity.

In the early days of online gambling, online slot games were relatively basic and featured simple graphics and gameplay. However, as technology has advanced, so have online slot games. Today, online slots feature high-quality graphics, animation, and sound effects. Many have complex gameplay and bonus features that provide a fun gaming experience.

In general, online slots tend to be a popular choice for players at online casinos and can generate a significant portion of the overall revenue.

According to data from industry analysts, online slot games make up a significant portion of the overall revenue for online casinos. Sometimes, the percentage of online casino turnover from slot games may be as high as 70-80%.

Are slots easy to play for beginners?

Different types of online slots

The online slots you see today are based on a combination of different types of slot machines, some re-creating the retro feel of old 3-reel mechanical machines and fruit machines.

Retro slots- Retro online slots are slot machine games designed to resemble the classic, traditional slot machines that were popular in land-based casinos. These games often have a nostalgic theme, with retro-style graphics and sound effects, and may feature classic symbols such as fruit, sevens, and BAR symbols. Retro online slots can be found at many online casinos and are popular with players who enjoy the simplicity and nostalgia of the classic slot machine experience.

Multi-line slots- New slot games combine multi-line video slots with the skill of fruit machines. Multi-line slots are online slot machine games that have more than one payline. A payline is the line on which matching symbols must appear for a player to win a prize. In traditional slot machines, there is only one payline, usually a straight line across the middle of the reels. In multi-line slots, there may be several paylines, and they can be arranged in various patterns such as diagonal lines, zigzags, or other shapes. Players can choose to activate some or all of the paylines on a multi-line slot machine, and they will typically have to wager more to activate more paylines. Multi-line slots can be more exciting to play than traditional slots because they offer more ways to win but tend to have a lower overall payout percentage.

Progressive jackpot slots- Progressive jackpot slots are such a huge hit that the jackpots can run into tens of millions; we can understand why they are so popular. Currently, the most popular jackpot slot games include many Megaways slots. Some big hits include Deal or No Deal Megaways, Immortal Romance Mega Moolah, Great Pigsby, Fortune Wheel, Fishin’ Frenzy, Hall of Gods, and Mega Fortune.

Popular TV programs such as X-Factor, Family Guy, Game Of Thrones, Vikings, Conan, and Who Wants to be a Millionaire even have their own slot games. Music fans have not been forgotten; these are my favourite themed slot games, including Guns N Roses, Motorhead, Kiss, Jimi Hendrix, The Rat Pack, and Elvis Lives.

Many other themes can be found in online slot games, and some games may even combine multiple themes to create a unique and exciting experience for players. We are always surprised to see what the top software providers come up with as their latest offering. The quality of the graphics has come along leaps and bounds in a relatively short time, i.e. the last decade. The developers certainly have to keep on their toes to remain on top.

Online slot features

Some typical features found in online slots include:

• Wild symbols: Wild are special symbols that can substitute for other symbols to create winning combinations.
• Scatter symbols: These are special symbols that can pay out prizes or trigger bonus features when they appear on the reels, regardless of their position.
• Free spins: These bonus rounds allow players to spin the reels for free and potentially win prizes without wagering any additional money.
• Bonus rounds: These are mini-games triggered by specific symbols or combinations and offer the chance to win additional prizes.
• Multipliers: These are symbols or features that can multiply the payout for a winning combination.
• Progressive jackpots: These are jackpots that grow over time and can be won by players who land on a specific combination of symbols or trigger a special bonus feature.
• Stacked symbols: These can appear on top of each other on the reels, increasing the chances of creating winning combinations.

 

The specific features of a game can vary significantly from one game to the next, so players need to read the game rules and pay table to understand the features of the game they are playing.

Wild

A wild symbol is a special symbol that can substitute for other symbols to create winning combinations. For example, if a player spins the reels and lands on a wild symbol in a payline that is usually a losing combination, the wild symbol may be able to substitute for one of the other symbols in the payline to create a winning combination.

Wild symbols are a common feature in online slot games and can be very helpful for players because they increase the chances of creating winning combinations. Some online slots may have multiple wild symbols, and they may also have special properties, such as the ability to expand to cover an entire reel or to multiply the payout for a winning combination.

Getting a wild symbol while playing online slots does not guarantee a win. It is possible to spin the reels and land on multiple wild symbols without winning anything, depending on the other symbols on the paylines.

The wild feature can vary from game to game, so players need to read the game rules and paytable to understand how the wild symbol works and what it can do.

Scatter

What does RTP mean?

This is a small but critical detail in our slot reviews. As slot players ourselves, we know how important this information is.

What are paylines?

The number of paylines in an online slot game can vary greatly. Some slot games have as few as five paylines, while others can have over 1,000. The maximum number of paylines is typically determined by the game developer. It can depend on various factors, such as the theme of the game and the complexity of the gameplay. Some slot games offer players the option to select the number of paylines they want to activate, while others have a fixed number of paylines that cannot be changed. In general, the more paylines a slot game has, the more chances the player has to win, but it also usually means that the bet per spin will be higher.

What is a random number generator (RNG)?

Online slots are a game of chance. This means that the outcome of each spin is determined by random chance, and there is no skill or strategy that a player can use to improve their chances of winning. While there is no way to guarantee a win while playing online slots, there are some things that players can do to increase their chances of winning. For example, players can choose to play games with a higher payout percentage, which means the game is more likely to pay out prizes. Players can also take advantage of bonus features and promotions offered by the online casino, such as free spins or deposit bonuses, which can give them more chances to win. However, it’s important to remember that even with these strategies, the outcome of each spin is always determined by chance.

In online slot games, the outcome of each spin is determined by a random number generator (RNG)

The random number generator (RNG) is a computer program that generates a random, unbiased outcome for each spin. The RNG ensures that the results of each spin are completely random and cannot be predicted or influenced by the player or the casino. The RNG works by generating a random number for each spin and using that number to determine the spin’s outcome. For example, if a slot game has three reels and five symbols on each reel, the RNG might generate a random number between 1 and 15 for each spin. This number would then determine which symbols appear on the reels, with each number corresponding to a specific symbol.

The RNG is programmed to ensure that the results of each spin are completely random and unbiased. This means that the results of one spin have no bearing on the results of the next spin, and the odds of winning are the same for every spin. The RNG is constantly generating random numbers, even when the game is not being played, so the outcomes of the spins are always completely random and unpredictable.

To ensure the fairness of their RNGs, many online casinos have them audited by independent testing organizations. These organisations use various techniques to test the RNGs and ensure that they generate genuinely random outcomes.

For example, an organisation might test the RNG by generating numerous random outcomes and comparing them to the expected statistical distribution for a game. If the test results fall within the expected statistical range, the RNG is considered fair, and the game is deemed suitable for use at the online casino.

Software that powers slot games

Things have come a long way relatively quickly in the online casino industry. Brand new casino software providers always pop up, and giants such as Microgaming and NetEnt are constantly battling to launch the next big new slot game. Online slot software is exceptional; the graphics and immersive experience the latest slots provide are so far away from the clunky 3-reel one-armed bandit that was so popular not long ago. You can quickly lose yourself in the experience, especially with your volume up.  It’s not quite Las Vegas, but as close as we will get to it.

The software companies that supply the games to the casino sites are independent companies from the casino where you play the slot for the most part. Some huge, established companies quickly churn out new, all-singing, all-dancing games. Then there are smaller companies that are new to the industry and are trying to climb up the ladder to having their games listed at the big casinos, networked casinos, or bingo sites. Getting your slots picked up cannot be easy if you are a smaller company without any history in the industry. The competition is fierce; many smaller providers have disappeared from the UK casino market over the years.

So, how does it work?

The software company leases the games in simple terms to the casino. Generally, the casino will pay the provider a fee for listing their slots. The more well-established and popular software providers are, the more they can charge the casino. Casino sites typically pay a monthly fee to the software company and a percentage of the revenue earned by the slot games.

Safety is paramount for slots and games offered at casino sites. The slots must be fair and payout to players correctly; they are commonly audited and updated. Licensed casino sites must be cautious with safety and ensure 3rd party agents have independently verified the games. The technical data for the slots they provide has to be displayed and transparent.

Numerous top-notch slot software providers are way ahead of the rest in terms of their graphic capabilities and continued innovative features. A few examples are the aforementioned NetEnt, Quickspin, Thunderkick, IGT, Evolution, NextGen, and Play N Go. These software companies have stood the test of time and continue to surprise us repeatedly.

Some smaller slot providers, such as Foxium, 4ThePlayer, Tom Horn Gaming, and Swintt, offer some nice slots. We never discount a new provider as things change at such a fast pace in the iGaming industry. The standard of slots from these companies is above anyone’s expectations.

Some players enjoy the older slots with pixilated, outdated graphics and will revert to them, perhaps due to a previous lucky experience! With so much choice now and the rapid progression in graphics quality, we feel the older-looking games have probably had their day now. Some old classics are being updated, though.

A great feature that most good casino sites offer now is the ability to easily search for your favourite slot and/or favourite slot software provider. Gone are the days of scrolling through hundreds of slots only to find the game you were looking for isn’t even listed!

Choosing an online slots site

Loyalty Scheme

Casino loyalty programs are rewards programs offered by casinos to encourage players to continue playing with them and not go elsewhere. These programs typically offer points or credits to players for their play, which can be redeemed for various perks such as free spins, prizes, and merchandise. Some slot sites also offer “experiential” freebies, such as tickets to shows or events or other types of entertainment. The freebies offered through a loyalty program will depend on the program and the casino.

Some loyalty programs also offer tiered membership, where players can move up to higher levels with increased benefits as they earn more points. The specifics of each loyalty program can vary widely from one casino to another.

VIP programs

The history of slot games – where it all began

The first gambling machine was invented in 1891 by Sittman and Pitt of Brooklyn, New York. It was created based on the poker game and contained five drums with 50 card faces. This machine was incredibly popular and quickly placed in many New York bars.

A few years later, Charles Fey invented the slot machine as we know it. Charles Fey is generally credited with inventing the modern automatic pay-out slot machine. He was an American mechanic and inventor who lived in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and he is best known for his contributions to the development of the slot machine.

The first invented slot had three reels and was named the “Liberty Bell.” The bell is one of the reel symbols and gives the highest payout. The Liberty Bell was much simpler than the Sittman and Pitt machine, with just three reels and a single payline. A mechanical slot machine used a lever to spin a series of reels with symbols. When the reels stopped spinning, players would win if they had landed on a winning combination of symbols. It used symbols such as diamonds, spades, hearts, and a cracked Liberty Bell to represent the possible combinations. The Liberty Bell was a huge success and was widely used in saloons and other establishments.

Fey’s invention revolutionised the gambling industry and paved the way for the development of modern slot machines. His contributions to the field are still recognised and celebrated today.

The Liberty Bell was so successful that numerous manufacturers duplicated it.

Gradually, slots became increasingly popular and appeared in saloons, barber stores, and bowling alleys. By the 60s, electronic slot machines started to appear, allowing bigger wins. To avoid gambling laws, instead of winning money, it would be expected to have food offered as a prize instead. These machines commonly use chewing gum and mints to get around the law. However, two court cases in Iowa led to these vending machines being labelled gambling devices.

The first electronic and video slot games

The first electromechanical slot machine was developed in 1963 by Bally, a slot called Money Honey.  It is known for being the first slot machine to use an electromechanical design, offering larger jackpots and faster gameplay than traditional mechanical slot machines. The game features a retro theme and traditional slot symbols such as fruit, bars, and 7s. It is still popular among slot players and can be found in many online casinos. It could pay out up to 500 coins without employees needing to pay out players. Really, Money Honey was the machine that led to the increased popularity of electronic games.

In the 1970s, the first video slot emerged in Kearny Mesa, California. Fortune Coin Co., founded by Walt Fraley and based in San Francisco, developed the first video slot machine. It featured a 19-inch Sony colour television for the screen display and functions and was placed in a cabinet.

The Las Vegas Hilton Hotel was the first to trial these machines; after a few cheating issues were resolved, the Nevada State Gaming Commission approved the slot machine. Software provider IGT purchased the technology and the Fortune Coin Company in 1978. IGT is still strong today as a leading online slot software developer.

Multi-line slots started to become more favoured in the 90s. How the reel machines and video slot machines calculate payouts is different. Reel machines only allow you to win the jackpot by playing the maximum number of coins per spin, whereas with video slots, the fixed payout values are multiplied by the amount that has been wagered on each line per bet.

Video slots have no moving parts but a graphical representation on a video screen representing the reels. Video slots allowed the manufacturers to change the design considerably, allowing players to place bets on multiple lines and increase their stakes.

The graphics in a video slot game can include the background, the reels, and the symbols on the reels. The graphics can also include other visual elements such as animations, special effects, and user interface elements such as buttons and menus.

In modern video slots, the graphics are usually high-quality and very detailed, with 3D models and realistic-looking animations. The graphics are an essential part of the overall theme and aesthetic of the game, and they can help to create an immersive and engaging gaming experience for players. In addition to the visual graphics, video slot games also often include sound effects and music that help to enhance the theme and atmosphere of the game.

The online slot games we are used to now are a variation of the original slot machine concept but are much more interactive due to the latest technology. Video graphics and sound allow for a much more immersive experience.

How are Fruit Machines different from Slots?

A fruit machine is a type of slot machine based on pretty much the same principles and known affectionately by many as a ‘fruity’, also known as one-armed bandits or slot machines.

The fruit machines first became popular in the ’60s as they started to appear in more and more bars and taverns.

During the 1960s, they began to be referred to as “fruit machines” because many of the symbols on the reels were fruit, such as lemons, cherries, and melons. Fruit machines also started incorporating elaborate bonus features such as “hold” and “nudge” buttons, allowing players to manipulate the reels to create winning combinations. In the middle of this period, it was decided that there must be an element of skill for the games to be legal. Fruit machines introduced nudge buttons and other functions requiring skill to receive a payout.

Today, fruit machines are still prevalent in the UK and other parts of Europe and are often found in pubs, seaside arcades, and other gaming establishments. However, they have primarily been replaced by more modern slot machines in other parts of the world.

Many software providers have an array of older-looking, retro-styled slot games, giving a nod to the fruit machines of days gone by. Most of us look upon them fondly due to the nostalgic feeling when playing them.

Regulatory Changes and Their Impact

In an ever-evolving digital landscape, regulatory changes have played a pivotal role in shaping the online gambling industry in the UK. The UK Gambling Commission, the public body responsible for regulating gambling and supervising gaming law, has been at the forefront of these changes, setting new rules and standards to promote a safer and more responsible gambling environment. This regulatory shift has considerably affected the new slot and casino sites, altering their operational procedures and demanding an adaptation of their business models.

Introducing Stringent ‘Know Your Customer’ (KYC) Measures

One of the most impactful regulatory changes was the implementation of stricter ‘Know Your Customer’ (KYC) procedures. Earlier, new players on casino sites could start playing and place bets while their identity verification was pending. The immediacy of this process was a significant draw for customers, allowing them instant access to games.

However, under the new regulations, online casinos are mandated to verify the identity and age of players before they can place a bet. This has involved collecting detailed personal information, including photographic identification and proof of address. While this move aimed to prevent underage gambling and protect vulnerable individuals, it did mean a more prolonged sign-up process. This stringent measure impacted online casinos by slowing customer onboarding, potentially affecting initial player engagement and retention rates.

Banning Credit Card Gambling

In 2020, the UK Gambling Commission banned using credit cards for online gambling. This decision aimed to mitigate the risk of people gambling with borrowed money and spiralling into debt. Online casinos and slot sites had to remove credit card options from their platforms, affecting the flexibility of their customers’ payment options. This ban posed a challenge to gambling sites as they had to navigate potential customer dissatisfaction while complying with the new regulation.

Limits on VIP Schemes

VIP schemes have long been a common feature of many online gambling sites, offering high-spending players various rewards to keep them engaged. However, these programs have come under fire for encouraging compulsive and problem gambling. To combat this, the UK Gambling Commission implemented new guidance, requiring operators to conduct thorough spending and affordability checks before allowing players to join VIP schemes. These checks were designed to prevent consumers from experiencing gambling-related harm. Yet, they also meant that online casinos had to reform their VIP programs, potentially affecting their ability to retain high-value players.

Promotion of Safer Gambling

The regulatory environment in the UK has increasingly emphasized the promotion of safer gambling. Tools like deposit limits, loss limits, and reality checks have been made mandatory on online gambling sites, giving players more control over their gambling behaviours. Moreover, the introduction of GAMSTOP, a service enabling individuals to self-exclude themselves from online gambling, has led to a greater onus on operators to prevent them from gambling. While these measures have certainly made online gambling safer, they also presented new compliance challenges to casino operators, who had to integrate these tools into their platforms.

Future Regulatory Changes

With the upcoming implementation of the Gambling Act Review, the industry is set for more changes, such as potential limits on stakes and speed of play and banning certain bonuses. These changes would require operators to significantly rethink their game offerings, potentially disrupting the status quo of the online gambling industry.

Overall, regulatory changes in the UK have significantly impacted the operations of new casino and slot sites. While these changes have posed challenges, they have also raised the industry’s standard, promoting a safer and more responsible gambling environment. The successful casino sites will be those that can navigate these changes while offering their customers an engaging and enjoyable gaming experience.

Disclaimer: We are not responsible for the content of external sites. The site’s primary purpose is as a guide for slot sites, to find which sites offer the best deal, and to provide you with information on the latest slot promotions and news.