In the world of online casinos, not all online slot machines are offered in the same way. Popular and established providers such as Pragmatic Play are often preferred over lesser-known names such as NoLimit City and Elk Studios. This can happen for various reasons.
It is interesting to see why certain online slots, such as Sweet Bonanza, Gates of Olympus, and of course Play’n Go’s Book of Dead, always remain at the top of the list of favorite slots on casino websites.
Although there are countless slots available, our casino experts can name a few important reasons why certain online slots always attract the attention of players.
But is it right that these slots are presented on the homepage of almost every casino? Why do you see a few slots such as Nitropolis 4 from Elk Studios or San Quentin Xways from NoLimit City?
Our casino experts did some research, as we believe that the most popular slots that appear at the top of the lobby of many online casinos do not offer the best gameplay at all, but simply fill the pockets of the online casinos in question.
Attractive Appearance and Catchy Title
One of the main reasons why some slot machines are popular is because they simply look good. Slot machines with beautiful, colorful images, fun symbols and attractive backgrounds attract players.
The way a slot machine looks can make an immediate impression and tempt players to play. This does not necessarily mean that these slot machines actually offer the most features, highest payouts or most fun gameplay.
Brand recognition and partnerships with providers
Another important reason why certain online slots are not offered at casinos is simply because they do not enjoy the same level of brand recognition or because the games are considered too complex.
In the competitive world of online gambling, brand recognition is often a decisive factor. Players often feel more comfortable playing games from game developers they recognize and trust, and casinos are aware of this preference.
For example, casino games from software providers such as Pragmatic Play, Play’n GO and NetEnt are generally more popular and better known than those from smaller gaming studios such as Peter & Sons, Rabcat and Eurasia gaming.
Reasons Why the Same Slot Machines Appear at the Top of the Lobby
What we have noticed is that not every casino offers the same online slot machines as the others. For example, Hidden Jack with their Hidden Jack casino no deposit bonus has several less popular slot machines, purely to keep the selection as large and diverse as possible for its loyal players.
- Easy Rules – One of the main reasons why slots are so popular is because they are easy to understand. Players, whether new to gambling or experienced, love casino games without complicated rules or strategies. This makes them accessible to every type of player.
- Fun Stories – Slot machines with engaging stories or themes can make players more involved. Creating an immersive gaming experience can encourage players to keep coming back for more. It has been proven that slot machines with a catchy theme are played more often than slot machines without a specific theme or game mechanism.
- Trusted Software Developers – Casinos often rely on well-known software developers to offer slots with proven quality and fair odds. Players trust casino games from well-known developers and are more inclined to try them.
- Exciting Extras – Bonus features such as free spins, multipliers and jackpots can make the game more exciting. Players love slots that offer the chance of big wins and exciting bonus rounds with all kinds of built-in game mechanisms that can increase the player’s winnings.
- Good word of mouth – When players have a good time with a particular slot, they often tell others about it. This can lead to more players trying the game and talking about it.
In short, it is a combination of an attractive appearance, simple game rules, fun stories, well-known developers, exciting extras and positive word of mouth that enables certain slots to always remain at the top of the list of popular slots on casino websites.
After all, it also has to do with the reputation of the software providers and gaming studios, such as Pragmatic Play, Netent or Play n Go.
Why is Sweet Bonanza so Popular?
You have undoubtedly come across the Candy Crush-like game Sweet Bonanza by Pragmatic Play in the lobby of an online casino. Since this is one of the most popular online slots among players, the casino experts will explain in detail below why this is the case.
- Visual Appeal – Sweet Bonanza has colorful, candy-like graphics that immediately grab your attention. The cheerful atmosphere and attractive design make it appealing to players of both genders.
- High Volatility – The slot has a high volatility, which means that players can win big. This makes it exciting for gamblers looking for big prizes.
- Innovative Mechanism – Sweet Bonanza introduces the concept of buying bonus features (also called a Bonus Buy feature), giving players more control over their gaming experience. This has attracted the attention of players looking for more interaction. However, this form of buying bonus rounds is currently still prohibited in some countries.
- Free Spins Feature: The game offers an attractive free spins feature, involving multipliers. This increases the excitement and the chance of big wins. Moreover, players love free stuff!
Why Couldn’t Sweet Bonanza Be the Most Popular Slot?
Let’s get straight to the point. Sweet Bonanza is simply not suitable for every type of player. The high volatility and fast gameplay can be overwhelming for novice players.
Lack of thematic depth: Some players prefer slots with deeper storylines or themes, and Sweet Bonanza focuses more on gameplay and visual appeal.
Why is Starburst Popular?
Another very well-known casino game, which has been at the top of the lobby of many a legal online casino since 2012, is Starburst by NetEnt. Below, our casino experts will once again explain why.
- Simple Gameplay – Starburst is known for its simple and easy-to-understand gameplay, which appeals to both beginners and experienced players.
- Timeless Design – Starburst’s retro, cosmic look has retained a timeless appeal, making the game still popular after all these years.
- Win Both Ways Feature – Starburst offers the possibility to win from both sides, which increases the chance of frequent small wins.
- Accessible – The game has a low volatility, which means that players get winning combinations relatively often, making it attractive to casual players.
Why Couldn’t Starburst Be the Most Popular Slot?
Firstly, Starburst lacks complexity. Some players may find the simplicity of Starburst boring and long for more complex features and bonus rounds. In addition, the casino game has only limited bonus features.
Starburst does not have extensive bonus features like some other slots, which may disappoint some players who are looking for more variety and a more exciting gaming experience.
The Most Popular Slot Machines – Conclusion & Final Verdict
In the end, what gamers are seeking for will mostly determine which slot machines really merit the label of “most popular.” While some like simple games with consistent, meagre payouts, others cherish great volatility and the possibility to strike significant wins in one spin.
For this reason, even if they provide rather distinct experiences, games like Sweet Bonanza and Starburst keep ruling casino lobbies.
Players who appreciate risk, extra buys (where appropriate), and visually interesting themes will find appeal in Sweet Bonanza. Thrill-seekers and seasoned slot players love it for its fast-paced action, high volatility, and rewarded free spins.
Starburst’s low volatility, easy mechanics, and retro-futuristic look have helped it to carve itself an enduring position as well. Its “win both ways” concept and regular payouts still draw casual gamers and newbies.
Though they thrive in distinct ways, both slots are ultimately rather popular for good reason. Saying that each has earned its place by regularly offering what its audience wants is more correct than trying to ascertain which one is objectively more popular.
The fact that these two quite different slots can coexist side by side at the top of so many casino rankings highlights the true variety of the online slot scene.