Jackpot Central: Your Ultimate Guide to the Best Slot Machines to Play

As slot enthusiasts ourselves, we understand the thrill of chasing that life-changing jackpot and the adrenaline rush of spinning the reels. That’s why our experts from EkstraPoint dedicated their time and expertise to create the ultimate guide that will help you navigate the ever-growing world of slot machines. 

Our mission is to empower you with expert insights on the best slot machines to play with highest potential payouts, all tailored to enhance your gaming experience to the fullest. If you are ready to dive into the fascinating world of slot gaming, let’s start this journey together and maximize your chances of hitting that exclusive jackpot firsthand.

The best slot machines to play online in 2023

1. Starburst – NetEnt

This iconic slot game has remained a favorite among players since its release. With its vibrant colors, cosmic theme, and expanding wilds, Starburst offers a captivating gaming experience. The game features a 5-reel, 3-row grid with 10 paylines and a win-both-ways mechanic, which increases the chances of landing winning combinations.

2. Book of Dead – Play’n GO

This popular adventure-themed slot game takes players on a thrilling journey with the intrepid explorer, Rich Wilde. With its 5-reel, 3-row grid and 10 paylines, Book of Dead boasts high-quality graphics and an engaging storyline. The game’s standout feature is its free spins round, where a randomly selected expanding symbol can lead to massive wins.

3. Gonzo’s Quest Megaways – Red Tiger Gaming

A collaboration between Red Tiger Gaming and NetEnt, Gonzo’s Quest Megaways is an upgrade to the already popular Gonzo’s Quest. This version features the Megaways mechanic, providing up to 117,649 ways to win. With its cascading symbols, increasing multipliers, and enticing bonus features, this slot offers players an immersive and potentially lucrative gaming experience. The minimum bet is just 0.20 credits, and there are seven betting options available. Those who enjoy playing online slots with high stakes may be disappointed by the max bet of 4 credits, but remember that this is due to the game’s winning potential.

4. Moon Princess Trinity – Play’n GO

A sequel to the beloved Moon Princess series, Moon Princess Trinity takes players on an enchanting lunar adventure. The game features a 5×5 grid with cascading symbols and numerous bonus features. Love, Star, and Storm, the Moon Princess characters, play a crucial role in the game as they use their unique powers to transform the grid and create winning combinations.

5. Big Bass Bonanza – Reel Kingdom & Pragmatic Play

This fishing-themed slot game has gained popularity among players for its simple yet engaging gameplay. Fish up the biggest wins in Big Bass Bonanza, the 5×3 video slot with 10 paylines where the Fisherman is the only one that can collect or bring more Fish symbols on the screen. During the Free Spins, the Fisherman can increase the multiplier up to 10x or activate the Dynamite Feature which transforms random symbols into Fish symbols. The game’s protagonist, the Fisherman, collects fish symbols during the bonus round, leading to potentially big wins.

6. Legacy of Dead – Play’n GO

A spiritual successor to Book of Dead, Legacy of Dead takes players on another ancient Egyptian adventure. With its 5 reels, 3 rows, and 10 paylines, and high-quality graphics and engaging gameplay, the game is sure to entertain you. Note that 3 or more Scatter symbols re-trigger Free Spins. An additional 8 free spins are awarded and an additional special Expanding Symbol is chosen at random further.

7. Divine Fortune Megaways – NetEnt

This upgraded version of the classic Divine Fortune slot features the Megaways mechanic, offering players countless ways to win. Set in the world of ancient Greek mythology, the game boasts 6 reels and stunning visuals, with mythical creatures and gods as symbols. The key features include cascading reels, wild substitutions, expanding wilds, and a free spins round with progressive multipliers. With its captivating theme and potentially rewarding gameplay, Divine Fortune Megaways is a popular choice among all slot enthusiasts.

8. The Dog House Megaways – Pragmatic Play

A sequel to the original The Dog House slot, this game offers the Megaways mechanic, providing players unforgettable online slot experience. Set in a cartoonish world of adorable dogs, the game features a 6-reel grid with varying rows. The game’s unique features include sticky wilds, raining wilds, and a free spins round where players can choose between two different bonus modes. With its playful theme and engaging features, The Dog House Megaways has become a favorite among animal-loving slot players.

9. Hell’s Kitchen – NetEnt

Inspired by the popular TV show featuring celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay, Hell’s Kitchen is an entertaining 5-reel, 3-row slot game with 20 paylines. The game captures the essence of the show with its stunning visuals, sound effects, and Ramsay’s iconic catchphrases. The game offers unique features such as Ramsay’s Wilds, which can randomly appear to add wild symbols, and a Team Challenge Free Spins mode, where players pick a team and compete for extra rewards. Hell’s Kitchen is a must-try for fans of the show and those who enjoy culinary-themed slots.

10. Sweet Bonanza – Pragmatic Play

This candy-themed slot game features a 6×5 grid with a cluster pays mechanic, where players need to land a cluster of eight or more matching symbols to score a win. With its colorful visuals and whimsical soundtrack, Sweet Bonanza offers a delightful gaming experience. Key features include cascading reels, where winning symbols are replaced by new ones, and a free spins round with multiplier bombs that can significantly increase wins. The Multiplier symbol only appears on the reels during free spins. Whenever it lands, it remains on the reels to the end of a cascade series. Players will benefit from its random multiplier value (this will be between x2 and x100).

To have a clear understanding of the successful outcome you can hit playing these slots, here are the approximate Return to Player (RTP) rates for the games mentioned above:

1. Starburst – NetEnt: 96.09% RTP
2. Book of Dead – Play’n GO: 96.21% RTP
3. Gonzo’s Quest Megaways – Red Tiger Gaming: 96.00% RTP
4. Moon Princess Trinity – Play’n GO: 96.20% RTP (Please note that the RTP may vary as this game was released recently)
5. Big Bass Bonanza – Reel Kingdom & Pragmatic Play: 96.71% RTP
6. Legacy of Dead – Play’n GO: 96.58% RTP
7. Divine Fortune Megaways – NetEnt: 96.09% RTP
8. The Dog House Megaways – Pragmatic Play: 96.55% RTP
9. Hell’s Kitchen – NetEnt: 96.07% RTP
10. Sweet Bonanza – Pragmatic Play: 96.48% RTP

Please note that these RTP rates are approximate and can be subject to change. The actual RTP of a game may differ slightly depending on the online casino or gaming platform you are using. It is always recommended to check the specific RTP for each game on the platform where you plan to play.

The Importance of RTP and Volatility

The importance of RTP (Return to Player) and volatility lies primarily in the realm of gambling and gaming, specifically in the context of casino games and slot machines. Both RTP and volatility are crucial factors that help players understand the risk and potential rewards of a particular game.

For instance, if a game has an RTP of 96%, it means that for every $100 wagered, a player can expect to win back $96 on average. The higher the RTP, the better the odds are for the player in the long run. By comparing RTPs of different games, players can optimize their gaming experience and choose games that offer a better balance between risk and reward.

High volatility slots also tend to have higher payouts but less frequently, while low volatility slots offer more frequent payouts but smaller sums. When it comes to choosing the best online slots to play, it’s crucial to strike the perfect balance between RTP and volatility. High volatility games cater to players who are willing to take more significant risks for the chance of hitting larger payouts, even if they occur less frequently. Knowing the volatility of a game can help players maintain better control over their bankroll and manage their gaming sessions more effectively.

Bonus Features and Free Spins: Exciting Extras to Look for in the Best Slot Machines

The best slot machines are not only known for their engaging themes and visuals but also for the exciting bonus features and free spins that can significantly enhance the gameplay experience. These enticing extras can boost your winnings and add an extra layer of fun to your gaming sessions. In this section, we’ll explore some of the most sought-after bonus features and free spins that you should look for when choosing the best slot machines to play.

Wild Symbols and Expanding Wilds – Wild symbols are a staple in many slot games, acting as a substitute for other symbols to create winning combinations. Expanding wilds take this feature a step further, as they can grow to cover an entire reel, increasing the potential for more significant wins.

Cascading Reels – Cascading reels, also known as tumbling or falling reels, are a popular feature in modern slot games. When a winning combination is formed, the winning symbols are removed, and new symbols drop into the empty spaces, potentially creating more wins. This feature can lead to a chain reaction of wins and sometimes comes with increasing multipliers for consecutive wins.

Multipliers – Multipliers are a much-loved bonus feature, as they can significantly boost your winnings. They come in various forms, such as win multipliers, wild multipliers, or free spin multipliers. These multipliers can increase the value of your wins by a certain factor (e.g., 2x, 3x, or even higher).

Bonus Rounds and Pick-Me Features – Many slot games offer unique bonus rounds or pick-me games, where players can make choices that reveal hidden rewards. These interactive features can lead to instant cash prizes, multipliers, or additional bonus features, adding an element of excitement and suspense to the gameplay.

Free Spins – Free spins are among the most popular bonus features, as they give players the chance to spin the reels without betting any of their own money. Free spins are often triggered by landing a specific number of scatter symbols on the reels. Some games offer additional features during free spins, such as multipliers, extra wilds, or sticky symbols, to increase the potential for big wins.

Megaways Mechanic – The Megaways mechanic, developed by Big Time Gaming, is an innovative feature that has gained immense popularity in recent years. This mechanic provides players with thousands of ways to win by altering the number of symbols on each reel during every spin. Games with the Megaways feature offer dynamic and unpredictable gameplay, keeping players on their toes and heightening the excitement.

The best slot machines to play offer a variety of bonus features and free spins that can add excitement and potentially increase your winnings. When choosing a slot game, keep an eye out for these exciting extras to make the most of your gaming experience.

How Progressive Jackpots Work and Where to Find Them?

Progressive jackpots are a popular feature in many casino games, particularly slot machines and video poker. They offer players the chance to win life-changing sums of money, which makes them highly appealing. Here’s a comprehensive explanation of how progressive jackpots work and how to get the most out of them:

Contribution to the jackpot

In a progressive jackpot game, a small percentage of each wager made by the players contributes to the overall jackpot pool. As more people play the game and place bets, the jackpot grows progressively, hence the name “progressive jackpot.”

Base jackpot amount

Progressive jackpots typically start with a base amount, which is the minimum guaranteed prize. This amount is determined by the game developer or casino and ensures that even if the jackpot is won soon after being reset, the winner still receives a substantial prize.

Networked vs. standalone jackpots

Progressive jackpots can be either networked or standalone. Networked jackpots are linked across multiple casinos or platforms, allowing players from various locations to contribute to and compete for the same jackpot. This results in much larger jackpot amounts. Standalone jackpots, on the other hand, are exclusive to a single casino or game and tend to have smaller prize pools.

Random or triggered jackpots

Some progressive jackpots are awarded randomly, while others require specific conditions to be met. For instance, in a progressive slot game, players might need to land a specific combination of symbols on a payline, or they might have to progress through a bonus game to win the jackpot.

Payout restrictions

Progressive jackpots often come with certain payout restrictions, such as a maximum withdrawal limit or a requirement to receive the winnings in installments. This is important for players to consider when choosing a game with a progressive jackpot.

Where to Find Progressive Jackpots?

There are different sources where you can find progressive jackpots and invite the Lady Luck to win big. Make sure that all sources you will find are safe and reliable, such as:

1. Online casinos: Many online casinos offer a wide range of progressive jackpot games, including slots, video poker, and table games like Caribbean Stud Poker. To find these games, browse the casino’s game library or use the search function to filter by jackpot games.
2. Land-based casinos: Progressive jackpot games can also be found in land-based casinos, where they are typically featured in the form of slot machines or video poker terminals. Look for machines with jackpot displays or signage indicating a progressive jackpot.
3. Game developers’ websites: If you have a preferred game developer, you can visit their website to find a list of their progressive jackpot games. Examples of popular game developers that create progressive jackpot games include Pragmatic Play, Microgaming, NetEnt, Playtech, Play’n Go, etc.
4. Casino review websites: Casino review websites and online gambling forums often provide information on the latest progressive jackpot games and the current jackpot amounts. These resources can also be helpful for finding trustworthy online casinos that offer progressive jackpot games. Make sure you check full casino reviews on EkstraPoint and find all the details you need to place your bets on the right casino.

Players can win progressive jackpots by meeting specific game conditions or randomly by pooling their bets into a growing prize pool. Progressive jackpots can bring life-changing winnings to players who understand how they work and where to find them. Use your chance to compete for big prizes and sweeten your account like never before.

Most Popular Types of Online Slot Welcome Bonuses

Online casinos offer a variety of welcome bonuses to attract new players and enhance their gaming experience. These bonuses are particularly popular with online slot players, as they provide additional funds or spins to extend playtime and increase winning chances. Some of the most popular types of online slot welcome bonuses you will face in the best slot machines to play are:

No Deposit Bonus

This bonus is given to new players simply for registering at an online casino, with no deposit required. It allows players to try out the casino’s slot games without risking their own money. The no deposit bonus is usually offered as a small amount of bonus cash (for example €10 – €20) or a fixed number of free spins on specific slots. 

Wagering requirements and maximum withdrawal limits are typically associated with these bonuses, meaning players must wager the bonus amount or winnings from free spins a certain number of times before they can withdraw the funds. No deposit bonuses also provide an excellent opportunity for players to explore the casino’s offerings and test the slot games before committing to depositing their own money.

Deposit Match Bonus

This type of bonus matches a player’s initial deposit (or multiple deposits) with a certain percentage, up to a specified amount. For example, a 100% match bonus for up to $200 would double a player’s $200 deposit, giving them $400 to play with. It’s worth mentioning that the deposit match bonuses may be offered on the first deposit only or spread across multiple deposits (like first three deposits).

These bonuses typically come with wagering requirements, meaning players must wager the bonus and deposit amounts a certain number of times before withdrawing the funds. Deposit match bonuses provide players with a larger bankroll, increasing their chances of winning on slot games and extending their playtime.

Free Spins Bonus

Free spins bonuses grant players a specific number of free spins on one or more designated slot games. This kind of bonus is often awarded as part of a deposit match bonus (for example, 100% match bonus up to $200 + 50 free spins) or as a standalone promotion. Winnings from free spins may be subject to wagering requirements, meaning players must wager the winnings a certain number of times before they can withdraw the funds. Free spins bonuses allow players to try out new slot games without risking their own money and increase their chances of winning.

Cashback Bonus

Cashback bonuses offer players a percentage of their net losses back as bonus funds or real cash, providing a form of insurance on their gameplay. They are typically calculated over a specific period (daily or weekly) and capped at a maximum amount, for example, 10% cashback for up to $100. Cashback bonuses may also come with wagering requirements if offered as bonus funds, while real cash cashbacks usually have no such restrictions. You will get a helpful mitigation of your losses on slot games, providing players with a sense of security and encouraging longer play sessions.

When evaluating online slot welcome bonuses, players should consider factors such as wagering requirements, maximum withdrawal limits, game restrictions, and time limits. By understanding the different types of welcome bonuses and their associated terms and conditions, players can choose the best offers to maximize their gaming experience and winning potential.

Tips for Choosing the Best Online Slot Machines to Play

Choosing the best online slot machines to play can significantly impact your gaming experience and chances of winning. Here are some tips to help you select the ideal slot games for your preferences and goals:

1. Determine your preferences: Before diving into the world of online slots, identify your preferences. Consider factors such as themes, graphics, gameplay features, and audio. Knowing what you enjoy will help you find games that cater to your interests and enhance your gaming experience.
2. Check the RTP (Return to Player): RTP is a percentage that indicates how much a slot machine pays back to players over time. Higher RTPs typically mean better odds for the player. Look for games with RTPs of 95% or higher to maximize your chances of winning in the long run.
3. Consider the volatility: Volatility, or variance, refers to the level of risk associated with a slot game. Low volatility games offer smaller, more frequent payouts, while high volatility games yield larger payouts but less frequently. Choose a game with a volatility level that matches your risk tolerance and bankroll management strategy.
4. Look for special features and bonuses: Many online slots come with special features and bonuses, such as free spins, multipliers, expanding wilds, and bonus games. These features can increase your chances of winning and add excitement to the gameplay. Seek out slots with unique features that align with your preferences and play style.
5. Read reviews and try demo versions: Take advantage of online resources, such as casino review websites and forums, to gather insights from other players and experts about the quality and performance of various slot games. Reviews can provide valuable information on a game’s features, payout frequency, and overall player satisfaction, while a demo version helps you gain a better understanding of the game mechanics, features, and entertainment value.

Taking the time to research and try the best slot machines to play will help you discover the games that best suit your preferences and goals. By considering factors such as RTP, volatility, special features, and player reviews, you can optimize your gaming experience and increase your chances of winning.

How do we rank the best slot machines?

Before choosing an online slot game to play, we take into consideration the following factors to ensure you have an enjoyable and rewarding gaming experience:

1. Theme and design: Select a game with a theme and design that appeal to your personal preferences, as this will enhance your overall gaming experience. There are countless themes available, ranging from ancient civilizations and mythology to movies, TV shows, and even popular music bands.
2. RTP (Return to Player): RTP is a percentage that indicates the amount a slot game pays back to players over time. Opt for games with higher RTPs (typically 95% or above) to increase your chances of winning in the long run.
3. Volatility: The volatility or variance of a slot game reflects the level of risk involved. Low volatility games offer smaller, more frequent payouts, while high volatility games provide larger payouts but less frequently. Choose a game with a volatility level that suits your risk tolerance and bankroll management strategy.
4. Special features and bonuses: Look for games with special features and bonus rounds, such as free spins, multipliers, wilds, scatters, and interactive mini-games. These features can increase your chances of winning and add an extra layer of excitement to the gameplay.
5. Software provider: Choose games from reputable software providers known for producing high-quality, fair, and engaging slot games. Popular providers include NetEnt, Wizard, Red Tiger, Playtech, Yggdrasil among others.
6. Free demo mode: Whenever possible, try out the slot game in free play or demo mode before committing real money. This allows you to familiarize yourself with the game mechanics, features, and payout structure, helping you make an informed decision about whether the game suits your preferences and goals.
7. Casino reputation: Choose a reputable online casino that offers a wide selection of slot games to play, secure payment options, and responsive customer support. A reliable casino ensures a fair and enjoyable gaming experience and timely payouts of your winnings.
8. Device compatibility: Ensure that the slot game you choose is compatible with the device you intend to play on, be it a desktop computer, laptop, tablet, or smartphone. Most modern slot games are developed using HTML5 technology, ensuring seamless gameplay across various devices and operating systems.
9. Betting limits: Check the minimum and maximum betting limits of the slot game to ensure they match your budget and playing style. Some games cater to players with smaller bankrolls, while others are more suitable for high rollers.
10. Jackpot type: Consider whether the slot game offers a fixed or progressive jackpot. Fixed jackpots offer a predetermined prize amount, while progressive jackpots grow over time with each bet placed by players. Progressive jackpots can potentially offer life-changing winnings but are generally more difficult to win.

To find many interesting online slot competitions and choose the best slot machines to play, we at EkstraPoint offer an unforgettable gambling environment for all slot enthusiasts. Our experts are here to provide you with full casino reviews, so make sure you check some of them and make the perfect pick for your needs. 

FAQs

How do you pick a winning slot machine to play?

To pick a winning slot machine, consider factors like RTP (higher is better, typically 95% or above), volatility (choose according to your risk tolerance), game features and bonuses, player reviews, and the reputation of the online casino or software provider.

Is there a strategy for slots?

While slots are primarily games of chance, some strategies can improve your experience, such as setting a budget, managing your bankroll, choosing games with high RTP and suitable volatility, and taking breaks to avoid addiction and excessive losses.

How do I determine the RTP and volatility of a slot game?

RTP is often listed in the game’s information section or help files, or you can find it through online reviews or developer websites. Volatility is usually mentioned in reviews or forums, or you can observe it by playing the game in free or demo mode.

Can I play slot games for free before committing real money?

Yes, many online casinos offer free play or demo mode for slot games, allowing you to familiarize yourself with the game mechanics, features, and payout structure before committing real money.