The rise in popularity of the slot machine
Online gaming has been growing steadily over the last few years, with a marked rise in the number of people enjoying a spin on the slots. Technology has enabled operators to provide engrossing and immersive experiences for the most ardent of casino fans, as well as the absolute novice. The beauty of the slot machine is that it requires no skill to win, and can be played by those wagering mere pennies, all the way through to the high rollers, placing bets of hundreds of pounds.
According to Statista, the market size of the online casino is in excess of US227 billion and is only predicted to rise further. After sports betting, casinos account for the second biggest market, and the majority (almost 70% according to the UK Gambling Commission) of revenue comes from slot games. It is predicted that between 2020 and 2027 the online casino market is due to grow around 11.5%, and slot machines will follow this trend.
As such, there is a great deal of focus on developing new and exciting games to attract players; one of the most popular ways this is being done is through themed games. This means that players will be attracted to something new by having it link to something they already know, whether it is music, a TV show or a movie.
Movie themed slot games
One of the most popular themes is that of movies. Whether old classics, or new blockbusters, the world of online slots has certainly made the most of popular culture to solidify their brand. But how do they do this? And are the games reflective of the films they are based on or is it just a gimmick to attract players? With over 400 slots games, Virgin Games has wholly embraced themed slots as a way of engaging with their player base.
Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express
Originally a book, there have been many movie adaptations of this, with the most recent movie featuring a host of high profile celebrities, including Kenneth Branagh, Johnny Depp, and Judi Dench. Immersing players in the mystery genre, the game features the Hercule Poirot icon which will inspect the symbols and turn one into a Wild, increasing the odds of winning. The Passenger Investigation Free Spin Bonus allows players to open doors and reveal passengers, getting bonuses for any that are revealed. The heavy use of dark, sombre music helps recreate the atmosphere of the film, and places the player at the heart of the investigation.
Beetlejuice
Based on the 1988 Tim Burton cult classic, this game is sure to attract fans of this wacky horror. Having spawned an animated TV series, video games and even a stage musical, it is no surprise that it is a popular slot game. With quirky music and exciting flashing lights, players are transported to the macabre and unusual world of poltergeists and horror. The use of ghost symbols and wilds, and the cascade feature helps players win, and it is done so in a fun and engaging way.
Spartacus
The 1960 epic historical drama by Stanley Kubrick has a legion of fans all around the world, and has attained classic cult status even amongst those who have not seen it. The slot versions of this, and yes, there are many, aim to recreate the grandeur and spectacle of ancient Rome. There is Spartacus Megaways, which uses new technology to randomly change the symbols that appear on each reel, exponentially increasing the number of potential combinations. Spartacus: Call to Arms, Spartacus: Gladiator of Rome, Spartacus: Legendary Warrior, and Spartacus: Super Colossal Reels are also a part of the Spartacus slot family. All offer players free spins in varying degrees, as well as using similar icons featuring traditional Roman features, with players aiming to match amphitheatre symbols.
The Goonies
This game brings the whole gang together to find One-Eyed Willy’s treasure! Based on the cult classic from 1985, players are presented with a treasure map, and are tasked with matching symbols to uncover parts of the map and gain One-Eyed Willy Treasure Bonuses, needing to collect enough of the treasure bonus parts before the counter resets to zero. One of the heroes of the film, Chunk, will create Wild symbols increasing chances of winning, and Mickey, Mouth, and Data all feature heavily to provide additional reels and bonus spins.
So what is the verdict?
Movie themed online slot games are certainly very popular, as evidenced by the sheer number of people that play them, and their prevalence in online casinos. It is a canny move by developers to tap into the popularity of existing popular culture and gain the benefits of a pre-existing fan base and marketing. What is clear is that predominantly, developers focus on cult classics that have stood the test of time, and more adult games, catering to their demographic. There is a rich cross-section of genres, with comedies, horrors, and thrillers all featuring heavily in the slot games available to players. Operators have leveraged technology to create a masterful interpretation of the films; styling the graphics and sounds to immerse the player in the world of the film.
