VHS tapes, corded phones and those slow, screechy printers are a thing of the past. We know this. Some of you might never have even heard of these relics from the past. In the gaming world, though, “old-school” is not necessarily about outdated, forgotten technology. Even if you visit Las Vegas these days, you’ll notice that some people like going to the modern, new casinos in the city centre while others prefer the retro flavour of downtown.
Similarly, when it comes to online slots in Canada, a lot of players still prefer the classics. Yes, even with modern 3D graphics, impressive bonus rounds and all sorts of new themes, it’s those tried, tested and true spinners – like Thunderstruck II and Immortal Romance from Microgaming – that many players are drawn to. What makes these games so appealing – even as more novel options come up? Let’s take a closer look.
Why Exactly do Classic Slots Continue to be Popular?
Microgaming is one of the best known slot game developers out there, and their games seem to last particularly long on the scene. Many people wonder why that’s the case – but the reasoning is quite easy to understand.
Here are four reasons why people continue to play the earlier slots:
The secret power of simplicity
When it comes to slots. though, you just need to place a bet, push a button (or click the mouse) and watch the reels go. There’s something rather “zen” about having some fun (with the potential of making some big money), while not having to think too much about it.
A lot of modern slots have started incorporating strategy into the mix: pick a door, choose a bonus round, gamble to win more spins… it’s fine, and many people like playing this way, but it’s a different kind of flavour compared to older slot games. And, some of the new games can be really complex, where it’s not even clear which paylines or ways you can win. That’s a big factor in the old versus new slot games argument.
With the classics, there’s usually three to five reels and a few paylines, and gameplay is very simple and straightforward.
A taste of nostalgia
As mentioned, a lot of people love the cool, new and novel, but there will always be an appetite for the classics. The older, three- to five-reel spinners deliver that taste of nostalgia that many look for.
It’s just like visiting Italy and going to a modern Four Seasons hotel: it’s nice but it doesn’t really offer much along the lines of experiencing the heart of the country. Many who visit Italy might prefer to stay in a small town in a mom-and-pop hotel, and eat how Nonna did.
Trust is a factor
It might sound weird, but gamblers can be a bit paranoid when it comes to trust. Some wonder if “Vegas” might have made the call with certain sports bets and sometimes, even with slots, players might wonder if they’re tilted or rigged. Others might wonder if they’re “hot” or “cold”.
With new games, it’s sometimes hard to figure out what the paylines are or how to trigger the big wins, so players might have some questions. No, the games are not rigged in any way (any reputable casino uses games that are audited to make sure), but there is a trust that gets built up with the vintage games. They’re simple to understand, they’re transparent and they’ve built up strong reputations. That’s why they’re among the top enduring slot games.
Gamblers tend to be creatures of habit
This probably applies to more than just gamblers, but we know that casino players are creatures of habit. Some of us are superstitious and wear the same clothes, or play on the same days, or sit at the same bingo tables. Some of us stick with certain bet amounts or slot themes or gaming habits because that’s what “works”.
Whether it’s a matter of luck or comfort, it’s common for us to be creatures of habit. And that’s why players like retro games like some of the best Microgaming slots: we know them. That familiarity is important for those who like to stick with what we know. It’s not a bad thing; we all have our go-to’s in various aspects of life and slot players are no different.
Modern Reels or Old School Feels: Which Flavour Suits You Best?
We’ve sung the praises of classic slots in this article, but there’s lots to love about both the old and the new. If you like simple, easy and comforting, then the old school slots are for you. If you like new, novel and innovative, then the new game releases are more your style. The beauty of it is that there is no wrong answer. It’s great that most of the top online casinos stock their shelves with thousands of games, so that you can play whatever you’re in the mood for that day!
