What Makes a Good Slot Machine?
No matter how well-stocked you are on free spins and cash bonuses, there’s no point playing to win if you don’t understand the basic rules of online slots. Every spin of the reels is a game of chance, and no matter how many times you’ve wagered, each and every outcome is a random one. Therefore, it’s possible first-time players could win the jackpot if their wager is high enough.
Just because a slot game looks like great value on the surface, doesn’t mean it is. Free spins and bonus rounds might be plentiful, but the overall return to players and potential returns might be small. Poor returns in base games can make some slots a long haul investment just to see some sizable so win, so always check the individual return to player (or RTP percentage) of slots before committing to any significant play.
The best slots come in two distinct categories. The first one is simple 5-reelers designed to cater to players of all types, from the complete novice to the seasoned professional who’s been playing for years. Slots aren’t a game of skill as such, but getting to up speed on the ins and outs of each title and their unique bonus rounds is essential. More seasoned players can opt for advanced rules with more interactive titles, where they have the choice of multiple bonus options, each with their own unique perks and drawbacks. Getting a basic grasp of gaming strategy is essential, but incredibly lucrative if you’re invested in long-term play.
Where to Play Online Slot Machines for Free
If you’re happy to play for practice, you’ll get full access to most gaming features of online slots at any reputable online UK casino. Play in practice mode with popular titles from gaming developers like NetEnt, Playtech and Microgaming. Once you’ve polished up on the slot game specs, you can play for real with no investment if you take advantage of new member bonuses and welcome perks when you sign up to many leading online casinos. Get around your bonus restrictions by signing up for multiple welcome bonuses at different casinos to continue to play for free.
What Are the Best Welcome Bonuses out There for New Players?
If you’re new to the world of online casinos, you’ll be surprised at just how many places will seem to want to give you something for nothing. It is possible to play for free at many casinos, but more often than not, players are going to find any ‘free bonus’ ultimately has to pay for itself with extensive wagering requirements. Don’t be surprised if you have to bet 20-30x your initial stake just to release your winnings, and almost always expect to be asked to make at least one actual cash deposit before any winnings you earn on slots can make it into to your pocket.
No-deposit bonuses are ultimately the cheapest way to play for cash at online casinos, although wagering limits and relatively small starting stakes might appeal to small-time wagerers and novices only. High rollers looking to make more money, quicker, can find much more lucrative sign-up bonuses out there, with upwards of £1000 matched deposit welcome gifts, and free spins in the hundreds. You’ll find no deposit bonuses at hundreds of UK Casinos, with £20 no-deposit bonuses for new customers at sites like Mr Green Casino and Betfair. Spin Genie and Pocket Fruity are great go-to’s for an easy 25 free spins, with an extensive collection of popular slots and classic instant win games.
You’ll always get the best returns when you stake at least some money down as a deposit. Make the most of matched bonuses with lucrative offers of up to 400% returns. Almost every casino rewards new members with a cash credit bonus they can use to play with online slots, instant wins and other casino games, and these usually have laxer wagering restrictions than no-deposit schemes. For serious high rollers, there’s great VIP only rewards at BGO Casino. Players can earn up to £1000 when they join, with 200 free spins to use on online slots and instant wins.
The 5 Best Online Slot Machines in the UK
With hundreds of tried, tested and trusted to choose from in the UK alone, you’ve got plenty of choices when it comes to online slot titles. Choose from thousands of essential games from popular software developers like Microgaming, Novomatic and IGT. You’ll find classic 5-reel slots with lemons, bells and bars, alongside dynamic video slots inspired by the movies, small screen and comic books. Whether you’re new to slots or just looking for a new favourite, we’ve assembled 5 of the best you can play today at popular UK casinos.
Thunderstruck II – If you’re after big wins, the Thunderstruck series is a must. With 243 paylines and flexible wagering, there’s serious potential to win big with this Nordic-inspired 5-reeler.
- Incredible Welcome Bonus
- Virtual Reality Gaming
- Very Fast Payouts
