Slots are some of the best-loved online casino games and there is always a huge variety of slot titles to play at Borgata online casino. In reality, though, not all of them are created equal and slots differ in many ways. For example, some will operate using standard reels, while others will use newer-age cascading reels.
Slots with cascading reels are quickly becoming the most popular among online gamblers in search of a sizable win. The question is, what are they? How do they differ from standard reels? And why do they give that extra “edge” when it comes to upping the excitement during gameplay? Is there a science behind these slots? And most importantly, which are the best online slots with the cascading-reels mechanic to play at Borgata Online? Read on to find out!
What are cascading reels?
Cascading reels are also often called tumbling reels, falling reels or rolling reels. These terms refer to a slightly different way of how the symbols are presented in the game in that the original falling symbols “explode” and disappear when you make a match or land a combination on a winning payline, and are quickly replaced with new symbols. This gives you a chance to make another win before having to spin again. In short, you can go a lot further and potentially win a lot bigger than you could with a single spin on a standard reel slot game – although, of course, it depends somewhat on the specific title’s return to player (RTP.)
Further to this, most games that feature cascading reels also come with a built-in multiplier that multiplies the prize with each successive win.
The origins of cascading reels
Slots and many other casino games are evolving to bring new and exciting gameplay to gamblers around the world. One such gaming mechanic is cascading reels, which are relatively new to the world of online casino games. This popular feature first appeared in the NetEnt slot, Gonzo’s Quest, in 2010. It was called the Avalanche feature and took the online slots world by storm. Soon, many other gaming companies adopted a similar mechanic for a few of their own slot creations, usually using a different name and giving the feature a fresh spin, particularly in terms of the associated animations.
Nowadays, the vast majority of gaming providers have created at least a handful of slot games that embrace the cascading reels trait, including Microgaming, Quickspin, Playtech, IGT and more.
What’s so great about cascading reels?
The main advantage of cascading reels over standard reels is that it feels as though you have a lot more chances to win. This obviously increases the overall excitement of the game and can leave you feeling as though you’re getting better value for your money with every spin that you make. Don’t forget, though, that all these games are based on pure chance and so will generally pay out according to the titles’ respective RTPs, as mentioned earlier. What may feel like more chances to win may not actually translate to the outcome you might expect.
Another benefit takes the form of enhanced graphics and some truly spectacular video effects. Almost all slot games embracing this feature come with stunning 3D graphics and animations that add an extra level of visual stimulation and dynamism to the game, leaving players more engaged and likely to come back for another spin session sometime.
Finally, many online gamers choose slot games with cascading reels because there’s usually a higher chance of hitting those desirable scatter symbols that trigger bonus rounds and free spins. If you’re curious about what this subgenre of slots is all about, check out the next section, where we’ve handpicked a few titles for you.
The best online slots with cascading reels
The following online slots feature a cascading reels mechanic in one shape or form and are all available to play for real money at Borgata Online.
Gonzo’s Quest
As mentioned above, Gonzo’s Quest is the very first slot game to boast the cascading reels feature. As a result, many will agree that Gonzo himself has become something of a “poster boy” for online slot machines with a cascading characteristic. Released in late 2010 to critical acclaim, it’s a 20-payline game that follows the beloved fictional Spanish explorer on his search for El Dorado. It has an RTP of 96%, with an impressive maximum win of 37,500x the stake per spin and is well worth a go, if only to see where it all began.
Opal Fruits
Another player favorite, Opal Fruits, powered by Big Time Gaming, is simplistic in nature, making it a top choice among slot beginners. Its above-average RTP (96.75%) makes it especially appealing, particularly when paired with its cascading reels, called its unique “Reactions” feature. Players stand to win a maximum prize of 36,660x the stake with a total of 5,625 ways to bag a win.
Da Vinci Diamonds
It’s safe to say that art lovers can’t get enough of Da Vinci Diamonds because it’s a real IGT classic. The go-to game for fans boasts some of Leonardo Da Vinci’s finest and most famous artworks as symbols on the reels, as well as images of the artist himself. This slot operates with tumbling reels, 40 paylines that increase to 60 during the free-spin bonus round, and a maximum payout of 5,000x the stake per spin.
Basketball Star
This one is for all the dedicated sports fans out there! Basketball Star makes it seem easy to get a slam dunk. Hopefully, if you’re really lucky, you might score a notable jackpot when you choose to play this real online casino slot. It’s a Microgaming staple with rolling reels and up to 243 ways to win. Be sure to take full advantage of the Wild Shot feature, which can be triggered at any point during the game – up to two reels will change to wild ones and promise a guaranteed win. There’s also the chance to benefit from up to 25 free spins in this fun sport-themed game.
88 Fortunes Megaways
If you enjoy slots with cascading reels and a Chinese and riches theme, then fortune is smiling upon you. 88 Fortunes Megaways is a game that combines both these themes while also offering players all the thrills of a possible cascading win. It has 117,649 ways to win, medium volatility (which means a mix of both small and big wins) and an RTP of roughly 96%. In addition to the cascading reels, you stand a chance to win free games in a variety of ways. The first way is to get enough gold coins to trigger the bonus game, where you must choose gold coins, each of which has a different number of free spins and multipliers. Once the free spins have started, you stand a chance to get an additional eight, 10 or 12 free games, depending on whether you land four, five or six scatters. These free spins can also be retriggered if luck is on your side, giving you even more ways to win in this exciting game.
Play online casino games that you enjoy at Borgata Online
In search of the best online slots for real money that also have the cascading reels feature? Look no further than the wide selection on offer at Borgata Online. If you prefer gaming on the go to playing on a desktop, download our casino games app and you’ll be able to enjoy Borgata Online from a mobile device, wherever you are! But it’s not just jackpot slots for you to enjoy if you want to play at our casino online. We also offer online poker, sports betting and great casino table games for you to enjoy. No need to look for live dealer casinos either, as we provide a variety of live dealer casino games as well!
Simply register via our convenient mobile portal and play anytime at our online casino for real money.