Gary Cripps 
The popularity of slots stems from the diversity of their mechanics. When a player launches a table game, such as blackjack, the gameplay remains the same. The rules for dealing cards may vary, but the algorithm for determining the winner remains consistent. Meanwhile, the mechanics of online pokies NZ can change dramatically. Players can launch cluster slots with unique designs and gameplay. This article will discuss them in more detail.
How do Cluster Payout Slots Work?
These online slots don’t have fixed paylines or reels. Winning combinations are created by grouping similar symbols, called “clusters.” The more identical symbols a player collects in a cluster, the higher the payout.
The gameplay takes place on a matrix, which is the playing field. Most such games have a square board, such as 7×7. Symbols fall from above onto the playing field. If a player creates a cluster of similar symbols, they typically disappear from the field. New symbols appear in their place, falling back onto the grid. It offers a good chance to form another cluster or another winning combination during a single spin.
Pros and Cons of Cluster Slots
Let’s look at the key benefits of online slots with cluster payouts.
- More ways to win. Without fixed paylines, players aren’t limited to a single winning path. Payouts are awarded when they form a cluster of similar symbols.
- Exciting gameplay. Cascading reels provide increased excitement and the opportunity to win multiple times in a single spin.
- Flexible betting options. These slots appeal to a variety of players, including casual players and high rollers. Adjustable betting options broaden the target audience of the content.
These games offer many advantages, but they also have disadvantages. Cluster slots rarely feature a progressive jackpot. Some popular slots in this category do not use scatter symbols to trigger free spins.
Main Categories of Cluster Payouts
NetEnt first used this system in 2016. Today, there are various categories of online slots with such payouts.
- Megaclusters. This type of content was developed by Big Time Gaming, which previously presented Megaways games. The key feature of these games is a chain reaction. It unfolds on a changing grid and offers many different ways to win.
- Cascading. Many popular slots feature cascading reels. If winning clusters appear on the grid, they are removed and replaced by new ones from above. This continues until no new winning combinations appear.
- Random wild symbols. Sometimes, developers add random wild symbols to their games. They can appear on the grid at any time. Landing these wild symbols helps players form winning combinations if they are missing one symbol.
Cluster slots are constantly growing in popularity. You can choose games with high RTP and bonus features to increase your chances. New players can try the demo version or start with small bets to get a feel for the game. This type of gaming content will provide you with many positive emotions.
