Thanks to the introduction of online slot games, players are treated to a wide variety of slot types to play. You may already be familiar with the 5x3-reel slot, as it is the most common game format that you’ll find at casinos online. However, when it comes to spinning the reels on a screen near you, the fun doesn’t stop there, because online casinos go above and beyond to ensure that they have a fantastic selection of slot titles and mechanics to play. Some of the best online slots that you can play are grid slots. Let’s find out more about this type of slot game.

What are grid slots?

At first glance, you’ll see that the grid slot’s layout is different to the standard slot you may be used to playing. Instead of the usual layout with reels, a grid slot has literally that: a grid of symbols, ranging from 5x5, up to 6x12. The way grid slots pay out also differ from standard slots.

These slots’ exciting in-game mechanics will thrill players with plenty of fun features – depending on the slot title. Grid slots come in a range of formats, including fixed-size grids, and grids that expand with bonus features, which will keep you on the edge of your seat.

How do grid slots work?

Each slot title will have its own format and set-up that you need to be aware of before you start playing. For example, you could be playing an 8x8 grid slot that is fixed and won’t change throughout the game, or a grid slot that starts with a 6x6 format and expands as you land winning combinations.

Regardless of the game’s layout, here are some general rules and mechanics of this type of slot, which should help you get your head around how they work.

‘Cluster pays’ mechanic

Some grid slots have a “cluster pays” mechanic. This innovative mechanic will make the action on your screen much more exciting and fast-paced. When you land (usually) 5 or more of the same symbol adjacently, it will form a cluster and “explode’’, making way for more symbols to fall on the grid during gameplay.

Cascading reels

Not every grid slot has the cascading reels mechanic, but there are a few incredible grid slot titles with this cool feature to look out for. The cascading reels feature can lead to plenty of winning combinations per spin, which also results in longer playing time. This feature kicks in when identical symbols are connected horizontally, vertically, or diagonally, which then creates a win. When a winning combination is formed, the symbols will disappear and leave space for more symbols to drop down into their place, allowing for more potential wins.

Each game is different

Ultimately, there are no set rules for what makes a grid slot, as each game will have its own bonus features that make it stand out from the rest. Players will see differences such as the varying numbers of rows and reels, features, and the way that the casino game pays out. So when you’re browsing a casino site for grid slots, make sure to read the reviews and find out about the specific game mechanics.

What makes grid slots fun?

Grid slots provide the perfect blend of online gaming and online slots. Remember how Candy Crush took the world by storm? Well, Candy Crush makes perfect use of the grid slot mechanic, and that alone should be enough to convince you to try a few grid slots at your favourite casino site! The additional features this format offers are a neat way of getting more out of your slots gameplay.

The best grid slot games at Mecca Games

Ready to dip your toes into grid slot gaming? Here are a few titles to get you started.

Reactoonz 2

Join the crazy aliens in this sequel grid slot title to Reactoonz. In Reactoonz 2, you’re shown a 7x7 grid format, and there are plenty of bonuses to look out for. You’ll need to select the bet of your choice to commence gameplay. The wild is represented by the “Gargantoon” symbol, and it can substitute for any symbol to help you form winning combinations. Reactoonz 2 has an RTP (return to player) of 94.2%.

Moon Princess

Brought to you by Play’n GO, Moon Princess is the ultimate favourite among slot players. Betting options range from £0.20 all the way up to £100. In Moon Princess, when the grid is cleared of all symbols, the free spins feature is triggered. This slot has an RTP of 94.51%.

Aloha! Cluster Pays

With an RTP of 96.42%, players get to ride the waves and chill under a coconut tree in Aloha! Cluster Pays. This Hawaiian-themed slot comes with plenty of great action to keep you thoroughly entertained. With no paylines, the game works on a cluster-pays mechanism.

Play the best online slots at Mecca Games

At Mecca Games, you will find some of the best casino games online. We have a wide variety of stellar casino games for you to choose from, including online slot games, Slingo games, live casino games, as well as scratch and arcade games. What are you waiting for? Register at Mecca Games for a wonderful casino gaming experience!