5 Reel Slots

5 Reel Slots: The Bells and Whistles of Modern Slot Gameplay

Slots have come a long way since the late 19th century when mechanic Charles Fey introduced the general public to the first ever slot machine. Gone are the days when slot fans’ only option was to play on 3-reel machines with a limited number of paylines. In the past decades, 5-reel slots, commonly referred to as video slots, have become somewhat of a standard and comprise a large portion of the online casinos’ gaming portfolios.

• How 5-Reel Slots Work
• 5-Reel Slots Gameplay
• Graphics, Interface and Sound Effects
• Payouts and Paytable
• Key Features of 5-Reel Slots
• Multiplier Symbols
• Bonus Spins
• Bonus Games
• Wild Symbols
• Scatter Symbols
• 5-Reel Slots and Volatility
• Top 5-Reel Slots
• FAQ

The 5-reel slots pose as a more advanced and elaborate form of the game in terms of special features, visual appearance, gameplay and winning combinations. In addition, there is a great diversity of themes and betting limits to suit the individual preferences and bankroll size of any type of slot player. The following article aims at introducing slot novices to 5-reel slots’ basics and key features, so if you are new to the game make sure you read on.

5-Reel Slots Gameplay

Interface and Effects

Payouts

Key Features

How 5-Reel Slots Work

Both classic and video slots operate roughly on the same principle. The objective of the player is to land a winning combination of matching symbols on one (or more) of the active paylines in order to collect a payout. Video slots typically have five vertical sections, known as reels, which are set into motion when the player presses the Spin button or pulls the lever. Each of the five reels contains a specific number of symbols as well as a given number of “stops”, which varies depending on the game. Each 5-reel slot is weighted or pre-programed so that it returns a certain payback percentage over the long run.

Advanced 5-reel slots have a greater number of paylines, allowing players to land more winning combinations and increase their profitability. The number of paylines on advanced 5-reel slots may sometimes exceed one hundred but most titles offer between ten and fifty paylines. The lines can run across the reels horizontally and diagonally or may even zig-zag and take on V-shapes.

In many cases, the paylines are adjustable which provides players with the opportunity to select the lines, they wish to activate and bet on. However, if a winning combination hits on a deactivated line, this will not count as a win and the slot will not pay out. On some 5-reel slots, the number of paylines is fixed which means players cannot choose which lines to bet on, but are required to bet on all lines per each spin.

Whether or not a particular set of winning symbols appears on one of the paylines depends on a program, called a Random Number Generator. The latter produces long sequences of numbers to ensure randomness so that all players have equal chances of collecting a payout.

5-Reel Slots Gameplay

The gameplay on 5-reel slots is similar to that on classic slots. Once the game loads, the player needs to adjust the amount of their overall bet per spin. The first thing to do is select the coin denomination. These vary depending on the video slot you play, but the most widespread denominations typically are 0.01, 0.02, 0.05, 0.10, 0.25, 0.50, 1.00, and 2.00.

The next thing to do is choosing your multiplier or how many coins to wager per active payline. If the paylines are not fixed, you may also select the ones you want to bet on. For example, if you opt for a coin denomination of 0.10 and bet five coins on twenty-five paylines, each spin of the reels would practically cost you $12.50.

Screenshot of Great Reef 5-Reel Slot

Once done with adjusting the amount of the bet and the number of paylines, the player simply hits the Spin button to set the reels in motion and waits to see whether or not winning combinations would land on the paylines.

Graphics, Interface and Sound Effects

If you have played only classic, 3-reel slots, the first thing that will strike you when you load an advanced video slot is its visual appearance. Leading software developers have really taken 5-reel slots to a whole new level and have emphasized on both sound and visual quality. Many advanced slots start with short animated clips which aim at introducing players to the general theme of the game.

One cannot help but notice the visual depth of the slots as the graphics are crystal clear and exceptionally vivid. What is more, whenever players hit a winning combination, the symbols become animated as well and come to life on the reels. The sound effects coincide with the overall theme of the slots and add further value and authenticity to one’s gaming experience.

The interface of 5-reel slots is exceptionally user-friendly so players are unlikely to experience any issues figuring their way around, even if they have never played video slots before. The buttons for adjusting the number of coins per line and their value are located at the very bottom of the screen. The overall amount of the bet per spin is displayed immediately next to the coins-per-line button. The good news is players are spared the effort of calculating the amount they have won as profits on spins are automatically shown after each round.

If you wish to place the maximum amount allowed per spin, all you have to do is click on the Max Bet button. On some slot variations, players can double the amount they have won by clicking on the Double Up or Gamble buttons. A side game will start, where one is typically required to predict correctly the outcome of a coin toss or to guess the color of the suit of playing cards.

Most 5-reel slots have an additional Auto Play feature. When Auto Play is activated, the slot will automatically play through a given number of spins, displaying the amount players have won after each round. Usually, Auto Play allows for up to 100 automatic spins, although the number may vary depending on the slot and the software developer. Players need to set their coin value and multiplier before they activate Auto Play.

5-Reel Slots Payouts and Paytable

Since 5-reel slots have two additional reels, more symbols, multiple paylines, and various special features, their paytables contain more detailed information. As a matter of fact, players should always check the paytables in advance in order to understand what the slots’ payouts are.

The paytable generally contains information on all possible winning combinations, their payouts and the paylines featured in the game. The first section of the paytable shows players how much coins they collect if they land five, three or four identical symbols on the paylines. The payouts are usually listed starting with the highest-paying symbols and proceeding with lowest-paying ones. In most cases, high cards like Kings, Jacks, Queens, Tens and Aces are used as low-paying symbols.

Screenshot of Great Reef Slot Payout

The paytable would also give you a good idea on what to expect from the slot in terms of special features. You will be able to find detailed information regarding bonus games and free spins and which symbols trigger them. The wild and scatter symbols are also listed there.

As far as the payouts are concerned, how much you win depends on your multiplier or number of coins you bet per active payline. For instance, you land five high-paying symbols on a payline. The payout for these five matching symbols is listed as 1,000. This means that you will collect a total of 1,000 coins on this spin, if you have bet one coin per line. But the actual amount of money you earn depends on the coin denomination you use.

Key Features of 5-Reel Slots

The 5-reel slot variations are in high demand among fans of this casino game because of the numerous special features they come with. These not only add a greater entertainment value to the games, but render them more lucrative and advantageous to players. Read on for more detailed information on some of the key features you can expect to come across while playing a 5-reel slot.

Multiplier Symbols

When a multiplier symbol lands on a payline, it boosts players’ profits a predetermined number of times. Multipliers can double, triple or quadruple one’s winnings, but there are slot variations where multipliers can increase the amount one wins 100x or even 1,000x. Some multipliers can boost only the winnings, while others count towards the payline bets.

Though rarely, multiplier symbols may be featured in the slot’s base play. In most cases, these symbols commonly appear during rounds of free spins. Some software suppliers have even developed games where players get to select from several hidden icons and thus, choose their multiplier in free spins mode.

Bonus Spins

Bonus spins have become somewhat of a standard when it comes to 5-reel slots. This feature is not to be mistaken with the free spins online casinos reward their players with. A round of bonus spins is triggered either by hitting three or more “free spins” symbols or by landing several scatter symbols on the reels.

The number of spins the players get depends on the slot although sometimes the number of scatters or “free spins” symbols to hit determines how many bonus spins you receive. On some slots, it is possible to retrigger the free spins as long as you land the same three symbols which unlocked them in the first place.

Bonus Games

Bonus in-games are a common feature most 5-reel slots share. These are additional games, which are usually unlocked by special bonus symbols. The bonus games often have storylines which fit the overall theme of the slot. The additional games are rather straightforward to play. One of the most widespread bonus games is the so-called “pick-to-win” game where players need to either click on several different sections of the screen or are required to choose from several items (treasure chests, boxes, and so on) which offer guaranteed prizes.

Some slots feature the so-called “pick-to-match” bonus games where players should match two or more identical symbols or cash amounts from the options, displayed in the bonus game’s screen. Others involve the player spinning a wheel with guaranteed, additional payouts.

Wild Symbols

If you have ever played video poker, you are probably familiar with how wild cards work there. The wilds in slots have the same purpose and function in roughly the same manner as they can replace other symbols on the paylines to help players complete their winning combinations. As a matter of fact, the only symbols wilds cannot substitute for are the scatters, multipliers and the bonus symbols.

It is important to remember that wilds appear at random and typically have to line up on specific reels, for example, on the second, third and fourth reels of a video slot. There are many different subtypes of wild symbols, including walking, stacked, sticky, expanding and shifting wilds.

Scatter Symbols

Scatters are some of the most lucrative symbols you can potentially come across while spinning the reels of a video slot. As a matter of fact, scatters are more advantageous for the player than wilds because the former do not have to land on specific reels or paylines. The scatter symbols simply need to appear anywhere on the reels to either unlock a round of free spins or a bonus game.

Occasionally, scatters will only render a payout on the player’s winning combination. On that note, it is worth mentioning that scatters, much like wilds, are game-specific and their functions may vary wildly depending on the slot.

5-Reel Slots and Volatility

Before you proceed with playing 5-reel slots for real money at one of the reputable online casinos we have reviewed on this page, you should become acquainted with what volatility actually is. Volatility, also known as variance, represents the risk inherent to a given slot. It other words, volatility stands for how much and how often players can expect to win in a given game. Generally, 3-reel slots offer less frequent but larger payouts because of the limited number of paylines and symbols on the reels.

As far as 5-reel slots are concerned, players will be able to find both high-volatility and low-volatility options. High-volatility slots pay out less often but offer substantial payouts. If you are content with less action and have the bankroll to sustain you through more losing spins, high-volatility slots are the way to go. However, players who prefer more action-packed games and have limited bankrolls at their disposal should opt for low-volatility titles as these hit more frequently but the payouts are smaller.

Of course, you are unlikely to find information on your preferred slot’s volatility as casinos tend to steer clear from sharing such details with their players. However, the information in the paytable may serve as an indicator of the slot’s volatility. The higher the payouts for five matching symbols are, the higher the volatility of the 5-reel slot will be. If there is a greater gap between the payouts for four and five matching symbols, this also indicates higher volatility. If the payouts for five identical symbols are three to five times bigger than those for four matching symbols, this points to a lower-volatility game.

Top 5-Reel Slots

Ever wondered why the thrill of spinning reels in a casino never fades, or why the leap from classic 3-reel slots to the dynamic 5-reel versions has marked such an important era in history of slots? Well, you’re about to find out as you dive into the heart of casino entertainment: the world of 5-reel slots. The definition of slots goes beyond a simple game, with slots blending together intricate themes, captivating bonuses, and the sweet, sweet promise of expanded winning possibilities that have redefined gambling experiences. Below, you’ll find not just reviews, but a treasure map to the top 5 slots with 5 reels. Each game is a unique adventure, offering the chance to win but also inviting you to explore everything from the depths of ancient civilizations to the far reaches of outer space. Ready to see what makes these 5-reel wonders the cream of the crop in the casino world?

1. Money Train 2 Slot

Money Train 2 comes roaring down the tracks, building on the success of its predecessor with even more thrills and spills. Relax Gaming didn’t just set out to create a sequel; they aimed to revolutionize the experience with enhanced features, a unique theme blending the Wild West with steampunk elements, and a jackpot that could leave players gasping. If the original Money Train was a hit, Money Train 2 is the blockbuster sequel that takes everything up a notch.

Screenshot of Money Train 2 Slot

Money Train 2 Details:

Symbols and Theme:

Stepping into the world of Money Train 2, players find themselves in a dystopian fusion of the Wild West and a steampunk fantasy. This slot is an adventure into a world where mechanical wonders meet cowboy grit. The detailed, atmospheric design transports players to a place where the past collides with the future, complete with a soundtrack that perfectly complements the high-stakes action on the reels. The low-paying symbols include standard card suits while different characters like the high-paying Necromancer will bring you bigger returns when comprising winning combinations.

Every symbol is meticulously designed to fit the theme, with the Wild being represented by a skull while the assortment of character symbols reveals their special features during bonus games. Keep an eye for the money train symbol as well as guns, barrels, and magnet icons that can unlock special features during the bonus game. The symbols in Money Train 2 not only add depth to the story but also to the potential wins, making every spin a narrative in its own right.

Gameplay Features:

Money Train 2’s real excitement lies in its expansive feature set, where the bonus symbols unlock a treasure trove of potential. The Respins feature, triggered by two Bonus scatters, adds an electrifying layer to the base game, enhancing anticipation with each non-winning spin. But the crown jewel is the Money Cart Bonus Round, where night descends, and players are granted a ticket to extraordinary wins. This round is a showcase of innovation, with special symbols that can expand reels, multiply wins, and even resurrect other symbols for additional spins. The potential for unlocking additional reels adds an unprecedented level of excitement and opportunity, making every entry into the bonus round a thrilling possibility of hitting the game’s staggering maximum win potential.

Money Train 2 isn’t just a slot game, it’s a testament to Relax Gaming’s ability to push boundaries and innovate within the genre. With its compelling theme, extraordinary features, and the chance for colossal wins, it’s a journey through time and possibility that slot enthusiasts won’t want to miss. Whether you’re drawn in by the allure of the steampunk West or the sheer potential for huge payouts, Money Train 2 promises a ride you won’t soon forget.

2. Dead or Alive 2 Slot

Dead or Alive 2 rides into town, gunning to outdo its illustrious predecessor with a blend of familiar roots and explosive new features. Released a decade after the original took the slot world by storm, NetEnt has meticulously crafted a sequel that not only pays homage to the classic but also introduces a new frontier of slot gaming excitement. With its enhanced visuals, captivating themes, and a bonus feature shootout that’s second to none, let’s saddle up and dive into the heart of Dead or Alive 2.

Screenshot of Dead or Alive 2 Slot

Dead or Alive 2 Details:

Symbols and Theme:

Retaining the soul of the original, Dead or Alive 2 stands out with its enriched theme, blending the gritty Wild West with a dash of futuristic steampunk. The setting—a dilapidated western town under the vast, open sky—sets the stage for showdowns and tales of outlaw glory. The symbol roster celebrates the iconic imagery of the West, with whiskey bottles, cowboy hats, and the coveted sheriff badges playing pivotal roles. Each symbol, from the low-value A to 10 royals to the high-paying outlaws, is beautifully rendered, offering a visual feast that respects its heritage while pushing the boundaries forward.

Gameplay Features:

Dead or Alive 2 is packed with bonus features, with the free spins selection offering a personalized journey through high-stakes action. Choose your path with three distinct free spins games—each with its own flavor of volatility:

• Old Saloon: Mirror the original’s thrill, doubling wins and locking wilds for a shot at legendary payouts.
• High Noon Saloon: Embrace the madness with the “MAX” concept, where wilds multiply, potentially leading to wins over 100,000x your stake.
• Train Heist: A dynamic multiplier chase, with each wild increasing the multiplier and awarding extra spins, culminating in a potential bonanza if the meter maxes out.

NetEnt’s late 2020 addition of a bonus buy option (where available) adds an instant shortcut to the heart-pounding excitement of the free spins round, proving that Dead or Alive 2 is not just a slot but an adventure waiting to unfold.

Dead or Alive 2 not only revives the legend of its precursor but elevates it into a new era. With its breathtaking graphics, a trio of thrilling free spins options, and the chance for epic wins, this slot is a must-play for fans old and new. Whether you’re in it for the nostalgia or the promise of untold riches, Dead or Alive 2 is a wild ride through the Wild West that you won’t want to miss.

3. Valley of the Gods Slot

Embark on an exhilarating journey through time with Yggdrasil’s Valley of the Gods, a slot that revives the enchanting mystique of ancient Egypt. As you spin the reels adorned with iconic symbols of Egyptian deities and relics, the immersive soundtrack evokes the allure of uncovering hidden treasures. With 45 paylines set against the backdrop of a captivating narrative, Valley of the Gods promises both adventure and opulence. Let’s delve deeper into what makes this slot a must-play.

Screenshot of Valley of the Gods Slot

Valley of the Gods Details:

Symbols and Theme: Yggdrasil’s choice of an Egyptian theme might tread familiar ground, but it’s the execution that sets Valley of the Gods apart. The game’s rich tapestry weaves together elements of history, mythology, and untold riches, capitalizing on the theme’s inherent fascination. While the visuals and soundtrack transport players to the heart of Egypt, the real allure lies in the game’s generous payouts, including a dazzling jackpot of 580,000 coins. The base game is peppered with symbols ranging from golden Egyptian artifacts to revered gods like Ra and Anubis, each adding depth to the gameplay while enhancing the thematic experience.

Gameplay Features: Valley of the Gods doesn’t just rest on its thematic laurels as it introduces innovative gameplay mechanics that elevate the slot experience. The game ingeniously incorporates ‘blockers’ in the form of scarab symbols, which can be removed by landing winning combinations, thereby expanding the reels and unlocking up to 3,125 ways to win. The excitement further escalates once  all of the blockers are cleared, triggering a respin feature enriched with multipliers and extra lives. As players collect blue and red scarabs, they can increase their multipliers and gain additional lives, prolonging the bonus round and amplifying the potential for monumental wins.

Valley of the Gods stands as a testament to Yggdrasil’s prowess in crafting slots that are not only visually stunning but also rich in innovative gameplay. The game’s unique blend of familiar themes and groundbreaking features ensures that both new and veteran players can find something to treasure. Whether you’re drawn to the allure of ancient Egypt or the thrill of discovering hidden bonuses, Valley of the Gods is an adventure worth embarking on.

4. Book of Dead Slot

Intro: Step into the shoes of the fearless explorer Rich Wilde as he embarks on an exhilarating quest in the Book of Dead. Powered by Play’n GO, this slot transports players to the heart of Ancient Egypt, where untold riches and eternal mysteries await. With its high RTP of 96.21% and the promise of high volatility thrills, Book of Dead offers a blend of risk and reward that’s hard to resist. Ready to uncover the secrets hidden within the pharaohs’ tombs? Dive into this immersive adventure and discover what fortunes the Book of Dead holds for you.

Screenshot of Book of Dead Slot

Book of Dead Details:

Symbols and Theme: The allure of Ancient Egypt is captured through the evocative symbols and setting of Book of Dead. Rich Wilde, your charismatic guide, leads the way, flanked by iconic Egyptian symbols such as Horus, Anubis, and a Pharaoh, promising high-value rewards. The reels themselves are set against the backdrop of a meticulously carved tomb, with golden details that speak of the opulence of the gods. Lower-value symbols are represented by the classic card icons between 10 and Ace, while premium symbols demand attention with their detailed artistry.  A tomb will act both as a Wild and a Scatter, unlocking some of the special features of Book of Dead. The game’s design and soundtrack together create an atmosphere of intrigue and exploration, beckoning players to delve deeper into the ancient mysteries.

Gameplay Features: The Book of Dead itself stands at the center of the slot’s thrilling features. Acting as both scatter and wild, it triggers 10 free spins when three or more land across the reels, alongside a payout of up to 200x. Before the free spins commence, a symbol is randomly chosen to expand across the reels, increasing the potential for significant wins. The ability to retrigger free spins and select additional expanding symbols amplifies the excitement, making each bonus round a potential path to immense treasure. The gamble feature offers a further layer of engagement, giving players the chance to double or quadruple their winnings by predicting the color or suit of a hidden card.

Embark on a journey with Rich Wilde in the Book of Dead and unravel the secrets of the ancient tombs. With its enticing blend of adventure, history, and the chance for significant rewards, this slot stands as a testament to Play’n GO’s prowess in creating engaging and rewarding casino games.

5. Vikings Slot

Embark on a fierce journey with NetEnt’s Vikings Slot, a thrilling saga that transforms the epic television series into a riveting slot experience. With 5 reels that expand to 7 during the electrifying free spins, and from 243 ways to win escalating to a staggering 78,125, the game promises an adventure as grand as the legends themselves. With a betting range of $0.20 to $100, it caters to both novices and warriors of the slot world, while its medium/high volatility and an RTP of 96.05% assure that the quest for riches is both exciting and rewarding. The quest for the max win of 10,000x the bet is bolstered by features like the Hotspot, Scatter Pays, Shield Wall, and Raid Spins, ensuring that every spin is a step closer to Valhalla.

Screenshot of Vikings Slot

Viking Slot Details:

Symbols and Theme: The slot is a testament to the harsh yet honorable world of Vikings, with lower-paying symbols drenched in the blood of battle and higher-value icons representing the saga’s beloved characters. The detailed graphics and immersive soundtrack transport players to the heart of the action, making every spin a battle worth fighting.

Slot Features: Vikings Slot is laden with features that bring the lore to life. The Hotspot feature transforms Viking symbols into winning armies, while the Shield Wall unveils hidden treasures. The Raid Spins open the gates to a larger battleground, offering colossal wins. With Scatter Pays that honor the bravest and the chance to witness the Shield Wall in both the base and bonus rounds, the game is a relentless pursuit of glory.

NetEnt’s Vikings Slot is not just a game; it’s an epic journey through history, where every spin is a battle for honor, glory, and untold riches. Will you join the ranks of Ragnar, Lagertha, and the legends of old in their quest for victory?

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