5 Reel Slots
| Updated: 5 Reel Slots: The Bells and Whistles of Modern Slot Gameplay
Slots have come a long way since the late 19th century, when Charles Fey introduced the general public to the first 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 recent decades, 5-reel slots, commonly referred to as video slots, have become a standard format and now comprise a large portion of online casino game portfolios.
5-reel slots represent a more advanced and elaborate form of the game in terms of special features, visual appearance, gameplay, and winning combinations. In addition, they offer a wide variety of themes and betting limits to suit different preferences and bankrolls. The following article introduces slot novices to the basics and key features of 5-reel slots, so if you are new to the game, read on.
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5-Reel Slots Gameplay
Interface and Effects
Payouts
Key FeaturesHow 5-Reel Slots Work
Both classic and video slots operate on roughly the same principle. The player’s objective is to land a winning combination of matching symbols on one or more active paylines to collect a payout. Video slots typically have five vertical sections, known as reels, which are set in motion when the player presses the Spin button or pulls the lever. Each reel contains a specific number of symbols and a given number of “stops,” which vary depending on the game. Each 5-reel slot is weighted or programmed to return a certain payback percentage over the long run.
Advanced 5-reel slots often have more paylines, providing more ways to form winning combinations. The number of paylines may sometimes exceed one hundred, but most titles offer between ten and fifty. The lines can run across the reels horizontally or diagonally, or they may zigzag and form V-shapes.
In many cases, the paylines are adjustable, allowing players to select the lines they wish to activate and bet on. However, if a winning combination lands on a deactivated line, it 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 and must wager on all lines with each spin.
Whether a particular set of winning symbols appears on one of the paylines depends on a program called a Random Number Generator. It produces long sequences of numbers to ensure random outcomes and give all players the same chance 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 total bet per spin. The first step is to select the coin denomination. Available values vary depending on the video slot, but common denominations include 0.01, 0.02, 0.05, 0.10, 0.25, 0.50, 1.00, and 2.00.
The next step is to choose your multiplier, which determines how many coins you 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 choose a coin denomination of 0.10 and bet five coins on twenty-five paylines, each spin of the reels will cost $12.50.
Screenshot of Great Reef 5-Reel Slot
Once you have adjusted the bet amount and number of paylines, simply press the Spin button to set the reels in motion and wait to see whether any winning combinations land on the paylines.
Graphics, Interface and Sound Effects
If you have only played classic 3-reel slots, the first thing you may notice when loading an advanced video slot is its visual presentation. Leading software developers have taken 5-reel slots to a new level by emphasizing both sound and visual quality. Many advanced slots begin with short animated clips that introduce players to the game’s general theme.
Many slots feature detailed, vivid graphics. Whenever players land a winning combination, the symbols may also become animated and come to life on the reels. The sound effects typically match the slot’s overall theme and add depth and authenticity to the gaming experience.
The interface of 5-reel slots is generally user-friendly, so players are unlikely to have trouble navigating the game, even if they have never played video slots before. The buttons for adjusting the number of coins per line and their value are usually located at the bottom of the screen. The total bet per spin is displayed next to the coins-per-line button. Players do not need to calculate their winnings manually, as the amount won is automatically displayed after each round.
If you wish to place the maximum amount allowed per spin, click the Max Bet button. On some slot variations, players can double their winnings by clicking the Double Up or Gamble button. This starts a side game in which the player is typically required to predict the outcome of a coin toss or guess the color or suit of a playing card.
Most 5-reel slots have an additional Auto Play feature. When Auto Play is activated, the slot automatically plays through a selected number of spins and displays the amount won after each round. Auto Play usually allows up to 100 automatic spins, although the number may vary depending on the slot and software developer. Players need to set their coin value and multiplier before activating 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. Players should always check the paytable in advance to understand how the slot’s payouts work.
The paytable generally contains information about all possible winning combinations, their payouts, and the paylines featured in the game. The first section of the paytable shows players how many coins they collect if they land five, four, or three identical symbols on the paylines. Payouts are usually listed from the highest-paying symbols to the lowest-paying ones. In most cases, card ranks such as Kings, Queens, Jacks, Tens, and Aces are used as low-paying symbols.
Screenshot of Great Reef Slot Payout
The paytable also provides an overview of the slot’s special features. It includes detailed information about bonus games and free spins, including which symbols trigger them. Wild and scatter symbols are also listed there.
As far as payouts are concerned, how much you win depends on your multiplier, or the number of coins you bet per active payline. Suppose you land five high-paying symbols on a payline. If the payout for these five matching symbols is listed as 1,000, you will collect 1,000 coins on that spin if you have bet one coin per line. However, the actual amount of money you receive depends on the coin denomination you use.
Key Features of 5-Reel Slots
5-reel slot variations are popular among fans of this casino game because of the numerous special features they offer. These features add entertainment value to the games and can also affect their payout potential. Read on for more detailed information about some of the key features you may encounter while playing a 5-reel slot.
Multiplier Symbols
When a multiplier symbol lands on a payline, it increases the player’s winnings by a predetermined factor. Multipliers can double, triple, or quadruple winnings, while some slot variations feature multipliers that increase a win by 100x or even 1,000x. Some multipliers apply only to winnings, while others may apply to payline bets as well.
Although rare, multiplier symbols may appear in a slot’s base game. In most cases, these symbols appear during free-spin rounds. Some software suppliers have also developed games in which players select from several hidden icons to reveal a multiplier during free spins.
Bonus Spins
Bonus spins have become a standard feature of many 5-reel slots. This feature should not be confused with the free spins that online casinos award to their players. A round of bonus spins is triggered either by landing three or more “free spins” symbols or by landing several scatter symbols on the reels.
The number of spins awarded depends on the slot, although the number of scatter or “free spins” symbols may sometimes determine how many bonus spins the player receives. On some slots, it is possible to retrigger the free spins by landing the same symbols that unlocked them in the first place.
Bonus Games
In-game bonuses are a common feature of many 5-reel slots. These additional games are usually unlocked by special bonus symbols. Bonus games often have storylines that match the slot’s overall theme. The additional games are generally straightforward to play. One of the most common types is the “pick-to-win” game, in which players click on different sections of the screen or choose from several items, such as treasure chests or boxes, to reveal prizes.
Some slots feature “pick-to-match” bonus games, in which players must match two or more identical symbols or cash amounts from the options displayed on the bonus-game screen. Others require the player to spin a wheel that awards additional payouts.
Wild Symbols
If you have ever played video poker, you are probably familiar with how wild cards work. Wilds in slots serve a similar purpose, as they can replace other symbols on the paylines to help players complete winning combinations. The only symbols wilds generally cannot substitute for are scatter, multiplier, and bonus symbols.
It is important to remember that wilds appear at random and may need to line up on specific reels, such as the second, third, and fourth reels of a video slot. There are many different types of wild symbols, including walking, stacked, sticky, expanding, and shifting wilds.
Scatter Symbols
Scatters are among the most valuable symbols players may encounter while spinning the reels of a video slot. Unlike wilds, scatters generally do not need to land on specific reels or paylines. Scatter symbols typically need to appear anywhere on the reels to unlock a round of free spins or a bonus game.
Occasionally, scatters simply award a payout that is added to the player’s winnings. Scatters, like wilds, are game-specific, and their functions may vary widely depending on the slot.
5-Reel Slots and Volatility
Before playing 5-reel slots for real money at one of the reputable online casinos reviewed on this page, you should understand what volatility means. Volatility, also known as variance, represents the level of risk associated with a given slot. In other words, volatility indicates how much and how often players can expect to win in a particular game. Reel count alone does not determine volatility, and 5-reel slots can have either high or low volatility.
High-volatility slots pay out less often but offer the potential for substantial payouts. If you are comfortable with less frequent wins and have a bankroll that can withstand more losing spins, you may prefer high-volatility slots. Players who prefer more frequent wins and have limited bankrolls may opt for low-volatility titles, which tend to pay out more often but award smaller amounts.
Information about a slot’s volatility may not always be readily available. However, the paytable can sometimes provide clues about the game’s volatility. Higher payouts for five matching symbols may indicate greater volatility. A wider gap between the payouts for four and five matching symbols can also suggest higher volatility. If the payouts for five identical symbols are three to five times greater than those for four matching symbols, this may point to a lower-volatility game.
Top 5-Reel Slots
The move from traditional 3-reel slots to more dynamic 5-reel games introduced a wider range of themes, paylines, and bonus features. The following section reviews five slots with five reels, covering their layouts, betting limits, symbols, themes, and gameplay features.
1. Money Train 2 Slot
Money Train 2 builds on its predecessor with an expanded set of features. Relax Gaming combines Wild West and steampunk elements with detailed visuals and several bonus mechanics. Money Train 2 takes the original game’s concept and develops it further with new symbols, features, and win potential.
Screenshot of Money Train 2 Slot
Money Train 2 Details:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Reels | 5 |
| Rows | 4 |
| Paylines | 40 |
| Min. Bet | $0.10 |
| Max. Bet | $20 |
| Gamble | No |
| Jackpot | No |
| Software | Relax Gaming |
| Autoplay | Yes |
| Volatility | High |
| RTP | 96.4% |
| Release Date | September 2020 |
- Engaging Theme: A captivating mix of steampunk and the Wild West.
- Massive Win Potential: Up to 50,000 times the stake.
- Innovative Features: The Money Cart Bonus is a key feature.
- Challenging Main Feature: The Money Cart Bonus Round can be difficult to trigger.
Symbols and Theme:
Money Train 2 is set in a dystopian world that combines the Wild West with steampunk fantasy. Its atmospheric design depicts a setting where mechanical inventions meet traditional Western imagery, accompanied by a soundtrack that complements the action on the reels. The low-paying symbols include standard card suits, while characters such as the high-paying Necromancer provide larger returns when they form winning combinations.
Each symbol fits the theme, with a skull representing the Wild and an assortment of character symbols activating special functions during bonus games. Players can also look out for the money train symbol, as well as guns, barrels, and magnet icons that can unlock special features during the bonus game. These symbols support both the game’s theme and its payout mechanics.
Gameplay Features:
Money Train 2 includes an extensive set of features centered on its bonus symbols. The Respins feature, triggered by two Bonus scatters, adds another element to the base game with each non-winning spin. The main attraction is the Money Cart Bonus Round, which introduces special symbols that can expand reels, multiply wins, and reactivate other symbols for additional spins. Players may also unlock additional reels during the feature, increasing the opportunity to reach the game’s maximum win.
Money Train 2 demonstrates Relax Gaming’s focus on feature-rich slot design. Its theme, bonus mechanics, and high maximum win make it an option for players who enjoy high-volatility games with multiple special features.
2. Dead or Alive 2 Slot
Dead or Alive 2 expands on its predecessor by combining familiar gameplay with new features. Released a decade after the original, Dead or Alive 2 pays tribute to the first game while introducing updated visuals and additional bonus mechanics. Its Wild West theme and selection of free-spin features form the core of the experience.
Screenshot of Dead or Alive 2 Slot
Dead or Alive 2 Details:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Reels | 5 |
| Rows | 3 |
| Paylines | 9 |
| Min. Bet | $0.09 |
| Max. Bet | $9 |
| Gamble | No |
| Jackpot | Yes |
| Software | NetEnt |
| Autoplay | Yes |
| Volatility | High |
| RTP | 96.82% |
| Release Date | April 2019 |
- Maximum wins of up to 111,111x the bet.
- A choice of free-spin features to suit different playing preferences.
- An RTP of 96.82%.
- The high variance may not suit all players.
- The all-or-nothing approach may be unsuitable for players who prefer frequent wins.
Symbols and Theme:
Dead or Alive 2 retains the spirit of the original with an expanded Wild West theme and a touch of futuristic flair. A dilapidated Western town beneath an open sky provides the setting for the game. The symbols include whiskey bottles, cowboy hats, and sheriff badges. Each symbol, from the low-value A-to-10 card ranks to the high-paying outlaws, is designed to complement the theme.
Gameplay Features:
Dead or Alive 2 includes several bonus features, with three free-spin options offering different gameplay mechanics and levels of volatility:
- Old Saloon: Reflects the original game’s feature by doubling wins and locking wilds in place.
- High Noon Saloon: Uses the “MAX” concept, with wild multipliers that can potentially lead to wins exceeding 100,000x the stake.
- Train Heist: Features a multiplier meter, with each wild increasing the multiplier and awarding extra spins. Additional rewards become available if the meter reaches its maximum.
NetEnt’s late-2020 addition of a bonus-buy option, where available, provides direct access to the free-spin round.
Dead or Alive 2 builds on its predecessor with updated graphics, three free-spin options, and high maximum win potential. It may appeal to both fans of the original and players looking for a high-volatility Wild West slot.
3. Valley of the Gods Slot
Yggdrasil’s Valley of the Gods is an Ancient Egyptian-themed slot featuring symbols inspired by deities and historical relics. Its soundtrack and visual design reinforce the theme, while the game offers up to 3,125 ways to win. The following sections explain its symbols, layout, and special features.
Screenshot of Valley of the Gods Slot
Valley of the Gods Details:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Reels | 5 |
| Rows | 5 |
| Paylines | Up to 3125 ways to win |
| Min. Bet | $0.10 |
| Max. Bet | $100 |
| Gamble | No |
| Jackpot | No |
| Software | Yggdrasil |
| Autoplay | Yes |
| Volatility | Medium |
| RTP | 96.20% |
| Release Date | August 2017 |
- Engaging Egyptian theme with immersive visuals and a matching soundtrack.
- Innovative gameplay features with up to 3,125 ways to win.
- An RTP of 96.20%.
- The familiar theme may not appeal to players seeking something different.
- The unique features may make the gameplay complex for new players.
- The lack of a traditional jackpot may deter jackpot enthusiasts.
Symbols and Theme: Yggdrasil’s choice of an Egyptian theme may be familiar, but the presentation helps Valley of the Gods stand out. The game combines elements of history, mythology, and hidden riches. Its visuals and soundtrack transport players to Ancient Egypt, while its payouts include a top award of 580,000 coins. The base game includes symbols ranging from golden Egyptian artifacts to gods such as Ra and Anubis, adding depth to the gameplay and theme.
Gameplay Features: Valley of the Gods introduces several distinctive gameplay mechanics. The game uses scarab symbols as “blockers,” which can be removed by landing winning combinations. Removing them expands the reels and unlocks up to 3,125 ways to win. Clearing all blockers triggers a respin feature with multipliers and extra lives. Collecting blue and red scarabs can increase multipliers and award additional lives, extending the bonus round and increasing its payout potential.
Valley of the Gods combines a familiar theme with unusual gameplay features. Its expanding reels, blockers, multipliers, and extra lives provide options for both new and experienced slot players.
4. Book of Dead Slot
Book of Dead Overview: Players join explorer Rich Wilde on a quest through Ancient Egypt in Book of Dead. Powered by Play’n GO, the slot features an RTP of 96.21% and high-volatility gameplay. Its tomb setting, Egyptian symbols, and expanding-symbol feature form the core of the experience.
Screenshot of Book of Dead Slot
Book of Dead Details:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Reels | 5 |
| Rows | 3 |
| Paylines | 10 |
| Min. Bet | $0.10 |
| Max. Bet | $100 |
| Gamble | Yes |
| Jackpot | No |
| Software | Play’n GO |
| Autoplay | Yes |
| Volatility | High |
| RTP | 96.21% |
| Release Date | January 2016 |
- Ancient Egyptian theme with immersive graphics and sound.
- An RTP of 96.21% and high volatility with substantial win potential.
- A free-spin feature with expanding symbols and the potential for large payouts.
- A Gamble feature that offers a chance to increase winnings.
- High volatility may not suit all players’ preferences.
- The common theme may lack originality for some players.
- The free-spin feature can be difficult to trigger.
Symbols and Theme: Book of Dead captures the allure of Ancient Egypt through its symbols and setting. Rich Wilde serves as the game’s central character, accompanied by Egyptian figures such as Horus, Anubis, and a pharaoh. The reels are set against the backdrop of a carved tomb with golden details. Lower-value symbols are represented by card ranks from 10 to Ace, while the premium symbols feature more detailed artwork. The Book acts as both a Wild and a Scatter, unlocking some of the game’s special features. The design and soundtrack create an atmosphere of intrigue and exploration.
Gameplay Features: The Book of Dead symbol is central to the slot’s special features. Acting as both a Scatter and a Wild, it triggers 10 free spins when three or more symbols land across the reels, along with a payout of up to 200x. Before the free spins begin, one symbol is randomly selected to expand across the reels, increasing the potential for significant wins. Players may retrigger the free spins and receive additional expanding symbols. The Gamble feature adds another option by allowing players to attempt to double or quadruple their winnings by predicting the color or suit of a hidden card.
Book of Dead combines an Ancient Egyptian adventure theme with high-volatility gameplay, expanding symbols, and a Gamble feature. These elements make it a suitable option for players who enjoy feature-driven slots with significant payout potential.
5. Vikings Slot
NetEnt’s Vikings Slot adapts the epic television series into a 5-reel slot. The reels can expand from five to seven during free spins, increasing the number of ways to win from 243 to 78,125. With a betting range of $0.20 to $100, the game accommodates different budgets. It has an RTP of 96.05%, high volatility, and a maximum win of 10,000x the bet. Its features include Hotspot, Scatter Pays, Shield Wall, and Raid Spins.
Screenshot of Vikings Slot
Vikings Slot Details:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Reels | 5 |
| Rows | 3 |
| Paylines | 243 |
| Min. Bet | $0.20 |
| Max. Bet | $100 |
| Gamble | No |
| Jackpot | No |
| Software | NetEnt |
| Autoplay | Yes |
| Volatility | High |
| RTP% | 96.05% |
| Release Date | November 2018 |
- Expanded reels during free spins provide more ways to win.
- Immersive theme with high-quality graphics and sound.
- Several features inspired by the television series.
- Raid Spins may be difficult to trigger.
- High volatility requires careful bankroll management.
Symbols and Theme: The slot depicts the harsh world of the Vikings, with battle-themed lower-paying symbols and higher-value icons representing characters from the series. Detailed graphics and an immersive soundtrack reinforce the theme throughout the game.
Slot Features: Vikings Slot includes several features inspired by the series. The Hotspot feature transforms Viking symbols into matching symbols, while Shield Wall reveals hidden symbols. Raid Spins expand the reels to create more ways to win. Scatter Pays and Shield Wall may appear in both the base game and bonus rounds.
NetEnt’s Vikings Slot combines characters and imagery from the television series with expanding reels, Raid Spins, Scatter Pays, Hotspot, and Shield Wall features. It may appeal to players who enjoy high-volatility slots with licensed themes.
FAQ
5-reel slots captivate with their rich themes, dynamic features, and multiple paylines, offering a more immersive experience. They stand out with elaborate storylines, bonus rounds, and enhanced graphics, making each spin a mini-adventure. This complexity and variety cater to a broader audience, seeking more than just the spin-and-win of classic slots.
More reels and paylines increase your winning possibilities by creating more combinations. While classic slots may often limit you to a straightforward line, 5-reel slots open up a web of potential wins across multiple patterns. This diversity not only adds excitement but also spreads out your luck across various scenarios.
Absolutely! The RTP (Return to Player) and volatility directly impact your gameplay. A higher RTP means a better potential return over time, while volatility dictates win frequency and size. High-volatility slots offer larger, less frequent wins, perfect for thrill-seekers, whereas low-volatility games promise smaller, more regular payouts, ideal for steady play.
Bonus features significantly enhance your winning chances and overall enjoyment. From free spins and multipliers to interactive bonus games, these extras not only break the monotony but also offer paths to bigger wins. They’re not just for show as they offer strategic advantages that can lead to lucrative outcomes.
Understanding the paytable is crucial. It’s your roadmap to how wins are calculated, what the worth of each symbol is, and how to trigger bonus features. Knowing this can help you strategize your bets and understand the game’s mechanics, leading to a more informed and enjoyable gaming session.
While slots are games of chance, managing your bankroll wisely, choosing slots with higher RTPs, and understanding the game’s features can increase your winning potential. Playing slots with bonus rounds and free spins can also boost your chances without additional cost. Remember, patience and smart betting are key elements of every successful slot session.
Start by identifying what entertains you most — whether it’s a particular theme, bonus features, or the potential for big wins. Try games in demo mode to get a feel without risking your bankroll. Ultimately, the right slot is one that keeps you engaged and fits your playing style and budget. That said, we also recommend checking elements like RTP, volatility, and bet limits, as they can help you choose the right 5-reel slot for your adventures.