Complete guide to online casino slots

News | 20/06/2025

Find out everything you need to know about online slots: types of games, strategies, features and tips to maximise your winning chances at Swiss casinos.

Slots are the most popular games at online casinos. Accessible, entertaining and offering potentially high winnings, they attract players from all over the world. This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know before playing: types of games, how they work, strategies and tips to maximise your winning chances.

What is an online slot?

An online slot is a game of chance based on a random number generator (RNG). Unlike table games such as blackjack or roulette, it requires no special skills: just place your stake and spin the reels. Each spin is independent, and winning combinations are determined at random.

Different types of slots

Online casinos offer a wide variety of slots. Here are the main categories you will find:

Classic slot machines

Inspired by the first mechanical slot machines, they usually have 3 reels and iconic symbols such as fruits, BAR and 7. They offer a simple and nostalgic experience. Examples: Fire Joker (Play'n GO), Triple Diamond (IGT).

Video slots

More modern, they have 5 to 6 reels, advanced graphics and numerous features such as free spins, wilds and multipliers. Examples: Gonzo's Quest (a href="/blog/netent-slots/">NetEnt), Book of Dead (Play'n GO).

Megaways™ slots

Created by Big Time Gaming, these offer a dynamic number of paylines with up to 117'649 winning ways. Examples: The Dog House Megaways (Pragmatic Play), Bonanza Megaways (Big Time Gaming).

Progressive jackpot slots

These slots offer massive jackpots that increase with every wager placed. Some jackpots can reach several hundred thousand Swiss francs on popular slots such as Diamond Mystery, Super Cherry Lock'N'Win or the famous Cash Connection.

3D and interactive slots

Featuring 3D graphics and spectacular animations, they offer total immersion with innovative scenarios and features. Examples: Jack and the Beanstalk (NetEnt), Reactoonz (Play'n GO).

Free slot machines to try

Book of Dead: a classic inspired by ancient Egypt with free spins and a special expanding symbol.
Gates of Olympus: Tumble feature and random multipliers up to x500.
Big Bass Bonanza: A fishing game with free spins and boosted winnings.
Starburst: A retro slot with expanding wilds and smooth gameplay.
Sweet Bonanza: Cascading payout system with large multipliers.
Legacy of Dead: Similar to Book of Dead, with more special symbol options.

All of these games can be played for free in demo mode at PASINO!

How do slots work?

Reels and paylines

Slots operate with 3 to 6 reels and a certain number of paylines (fixed or adjustable). The more lines you wager on, the more chances you have to win. Some machines use cluster or Megaways™ systems for even more winning combinations.

Special symbols and bonuses

Wilds: Replace other symbols to complete a winning combination.
Scatters: Trigger free spins or bonus games.
Multipliers: Increase winnings by multiplying the stake or the amount won.
Expanding symbols: As in Book of Dead, they expand across an entire reel to boost winnings.

RTP (Return to Player)

RTP is a percentage indicating the theoretical amount redistributed to players over the long term. For example, a machine with an RTP of 96% pays out an average of CHF 96 for every CHF 100 wagered at the end of the machine's life cycle.

Volatility

Low volatility: Small, frequent wins (e.g. Starburst).
Medium volatility: Good balance between frequency and winnings.
High volatility: Fewer wins, but with massive jackpots (e.g. Mighty Wild Panther).

Strategies for optimising your chances of winning

Even though slots are based on chance, here are a few tips to improve your gaming experience:

✅ Choose a machine with a high RTP (+96% if possible).
✅ Take volatility into account according to your playing style.
✅ Take advantage of bonuses and free spins to play more without risking your own money.
✅ Set a budget and never exceed your limits.
✅ Test the games in demo mode before wagering real money.

Why play online slots?

Wide variety of games and themes
Opportunity to win huge prizes, especially with progressive jackpots
Playable on mobile, tablet and desktop without downloading
Bonuses and free spins offered by online casinos
Flexible stakes to suit all budgets

Online slots offer an entertaining and immersive gaming experience, whether you are a casual player or a regular at casinos. Ready to try your luck? Discover the best slots at PASINO!