The casino industry is rooted in a rich history dating back to the 1600s, and has since undergone a monumental evolution, pioneered by innovation and technology. The early years of casinos were primitive compared to today, with the invention of slot machines being one of the biggest innovations in casino play. The first known slot machine was invented in the 1800s, marking a change in casino gameplay and a sign of what was to come.
As classic-themed slot games maintain their appeal, discussions often expand to how modern payment systems influence user experience, with options such as a Trustly casino highlighting the shift toward faster, more streamlined digital transactions. All slot games pre the digital revolution featured distinctive visuals that today would seem basic, and are labelled as ‘the classic slots theme’. Throughout the digital revolution and the modern era, slot developers have returned to this classic slots theme, implementing advanced technological mechanics in the retro-style games. This genre of classic-themed slots is unique and remains one of the leaders in the iGaming industry today.
What Makes Classic Themed Slots Special
In the vast world of online slots, numerous new and innovative themes emerge each year, offering distinctive gaming experiences. That said, classic-themed slots remain one of the most popular genres, with new releases entering the iGaming industry regularly. With the range of modernised slot themes available to all developers, the question arises: why classic slots?
Ultimately, classic-themed slots are a tried-and-tested genre in the industry, with proven success and distinct visuals. Slots in this genre are incredibly unique, offering simple, nostalgic graphics that make for a pleasant design. Over the years, developers have modernised bonus mechanics in these classic slot games, creating fun blends of retro visuals and innovative gameplay which can be explored on PC and a wide range of mobile devices due to the HTML5 software technology embedded.
Common Classic Themed Slot Features
Many developers across the iGaming industry have put their own unique spin on classic slot games; however, all maintain a retro aesthetic. Many slots in this genre implement similar thematic symbols, often using imagery of fruits or other traditional slot game emblems as the icons on the reels.
Additionally, many games in the genre use similar playgrid layouts to those in traditional slot games, with some operating across a 3×3 playgrid. With that being said, other slot developers have opted for larger playgrids with slightly larger payline counts, although it is rare for slots in the genre to exceed 5 reels. The lower payline count maintains the retro feel, making for a straightforward gameplay experience in comparison to modern releases such as jackpot slots.
Notable Classic Themed Slots
9 Masks of Fire
The 9 Masks of Fire slot was developed and released by Gameburger Studios in 2019, showcasing the classic slot theme well in its design. The title is one of the developers’ most popular to date, which, in turn, has spawned many spin-off titles based on a similar classic slots theme. The 5×3 play grid, which features 20 paylines, is set against a red backdrop, with thin golden strips separating the reels, which are arranged in a traditional slot machine format. The backdrop of this title is simple, maintaining the classic slots theme, and features a red colour palette with different shades and patterns.
The developers have incorporated some straightforward bonus features in the gameplay of the 9 Masks of Fire slot, including the Bonus Meter, Free Spins, and Wild symbol.
Starburst
Similar to the previous classic-themed release, the Starburst slot is one of the most popular in the genre, leading to numerous spin-offs. NetEnt is the developer behind the Starburst title, released to screens late in 2013, featuring a range of simple elements that evoke the theme. Although the Starburst slot was released over a decade ago, it still features a visually appealing design that aligns with the classic slot theme. The gameplay takes place across a 5-reel, 3-row playgrid that contains 10 paylines, which operate from left to right and right to left. The gameplay takes place in an outer space environment with a background featuring a planet and a range of stars, adding to the aesthetic. The reels are set against a translucent backdrop and feature simple symbols that reinforce the classic slot theme.
NetEnt has implemented bonus features into this slot’s gameplay, including a Free Spins feature, among others.
Final Thoughts
The classic slot theme remains one of the most popular in the iGaming industry thanks to its timeless aesthetic and straightforward gameplay features. Compared with modern releases such as Megaways slots, these classic-themed games offer straightforward gameplay that is easier to understand. Game developers continue to release slot games with a classic theme, thanks to the retro aesthetic the genre expresses, something other themes cannot replicate. As time goes on and the iGaming industry evolves, this genre is expected to remain one of the most popular, with traditional slot games continuing to be a mainstay among developers.
Responsible Gaming
Like all themed slot titles, it is important to ensure gameplay remains safe and fun at all times, and to remember these are real money games.
