In simplest terms, video slots are slot machines that feature a video screen instead of mechanical reels. This differentiation was born in land-based casinos, where video slot machines first rose to prominence in the 1980s. In this setting, video slots provide the clear advantage of faster gameplay over games with reels.
When you play a slot game, you are technically always playing a video slot because all games are digital without mechanical parts. Even so, people often use the term “video slots” to classify regular online slots, while other categories get their own names, such as jackpot slots or classic slots.
In the land-based casino slot industry, differentiating between video slots and a classic slot machine is easy. Video slots use a digital screen, while a classic slot machine is a mechanical device. However, in the online industry, all games are digital/virtual, so the differentiation is less obvious.
Technically, all online slots are video slots. However, players and casinos still categorize video slots and classic slots differently.
Classic slots typically have basic gameplay and a much simpler structure. For example, there are fewer reels, fewer paylines, and mostly no bonus features like Free Spins, Scatters, and Wilds. That makes them an ideal choice for beginners to online slots or players who like fast-paced, simple gameplay.
However, classic slots do lack the dynamic elements that make video slots so popular. One area where there is a clear difference between the two is in terms of design, audio, and theme. Online video slots have rich themes with impressive graphics and immersive soundtracks. On the other hand, classic slots do not have immersive designs, animations, or audio.