History of 6-Reel Slots

If you often play slot machines in online or land-based casinos, you might have recognized that they come in many different forms and themes. While the most popular type of slot game is most likely the 5-reel slot, let’s not forget that there are also other types of games out there. Those come with either a lower or higher number of reels.

This includes that there are best slots ireland that have an impressive number of 6 reels. Many players find this particular type of slot game an excellent choice because compared to 3, 4, or 5-reel games it offers more gaming possibilities and ways to win.

Let’s see below when the first 6-reel slots appeared and what advantages you may expect when choosing these games. Moreover, we will also review some of the most popular games.

The Brief History of 6-Reel Slots

Maybe it will surprise you, but slot machines originated in the 19th century. The first mechanical machines from the 1890s were quite simple. Usually, they had a low number of reels, and players had to use a lever to make the reels spin. Also, they were able to display fewer symbols than their modern counterparts. As a matter of fact, the first poker machine had 5 drums. Charles Fey’s slot machine with automatic payout called the Liberty Bell machine featured only 3 reels and 5 symbols.

In the 20th century, slot machines went through a lot of changes. They have become better and better over time, thanks to the numerous advancements in technology. For example, in 1976, the first video slot (the slot machine with a video screen) was invented that spread widely all over the world in a short amount of time.

After that in the 1990s, the launch of the first online gambling sites completely changed the gambling industry. These websites allowed players to spin the reels in front of their computers. Thus, they didn’t need anymore to visit brick-and-mortar casino venues unless they wanted to feel the unique atmosphere of land-based casinos.

Understandably, at this time, the best software development companies’ primary focus was on developing more and more online games. This is because every new thrilling game offered them a new opportunity to attract more people to play in online casinos.

From 3 or 5 Columns to 6

In the past, the majority of slot machines have been created in two formats. These were the 3- or 5-reel slots that are now considered to be the classic slots. While 5-reel games are still the most seen versions of slots in the casino’s game library, there are many other alternative types that mostly came into existence in the last two decades. One of these is the 6-reel slot machine that allows for much more features and new possibilities than 5-reel games.

An Extra Reel That Expands the Possibilities

Most players don’t care about how many columns, rows, and symbols a slot game has. This is because they don’t want to get lost in the details. All that matters for them is to find a game that has an impressive design, excellent soundtrack and music effects, and exciting gameplay. Thus, they can have fun and have a chance at winning.

But the truth is that the number of columns and rows has a huge impact on the gaming experience the player will receive in the end. The extra reel in 6-reel slots provides more space for developers to come up with new options and features. Hence, players can enjoy more complex gameplay through these slots.

Due to the extra positions, typically, there are also more paylines and bigger prizes in these games.

Popular Slot Machines

Since 6-reel games differ from the classic formats of slots, you will find these games in a lower number compared to classic slots. Plus, they are mostly available as online versions in the game selection of online casinos.

In the following, we will review two of the most popular titles that feature 6 reels. Don’t hesitate to try any of them. Chances are that you will enjoy them.

Raging Rhino

Raging Rhino was developed by WMS, one of the leading gaming software providers on the market. This iconic game has 6 reels and 4 rows, offering a total of 4,096 ways to win.

The game comes with a beautiful African wildlife-themed design. Among the symbols, you can find numerous animals, including a rhinoceros, crocodile, gorilla, mongoose, and leopard.

Thanks to the high number of ways to win and high payouts, Raging Rhino is extremely popular.

Zeus III

Zeus III is another popular game from WMS. This Greek mythology-themed slot comes with 6 reels and 192 ways to win. Interestingly, the game has an unusual layout since the reels are expanding from left to right. This means that while the first column has only 2 rows, the sixth one has 7.

In Zeus III, there is a wide variety of symbols, including Zeus, a Pegasus, a Greek coin, a vase, a Greek boat, and a gladiator helmet.

This title is a perfect choice for you if you are looking for something unique with a high-quality design!

The Bottom Line

6-reel slots are great alternatives to traditional games with 3 or 5 spinning reels. While these slot machines are less popular than their classic counterparts that have been around for over a century, it doesn’t mean that they are not worth trying.

Many people love playing 6-reel games, especially those players who understand that the extra game space can offer them more features and ways to win. And of course, more fun as well!