When it comes to online slot games, terms like ‘clusters’ and ‘scatters’ are commonly used to describe different game mechanics that you might encounter throughout your gameplay.
Understanding these features can develop your gameplay experience and help you make the most of your time playing online Slots. Below is a breakdown of what clusters and scatters mean in the context of slot games.
Clusters in slot games
Clusters are a relatively new concept in slot games, differing from the traditional payline system. Instead of needing to land matching symbols on specific paylines, a cluster game requires you to form groups of symbols that touch horizontally or vertically on the reels. If a cluster of identical symbols is formed, it typically triggers a payout.
For example, in a typical cluster-based slot, you might need a group of at least five matching symbols connected in some way. Once a cluster is formed and the payout is made, those symbols may disappear, allowing new symbols to drop into place, potentially creating new clusters and additional wins in a single spin. This cascading or tumbling reels feature can add another layer of gameplay.
Scatters in slot games
Scatter symbols are among the most valuable in many online slot games. Unlike other symbols that must line up on a payline or in a cluster, scatters can trigger payouts or special features regardless of their position on the reels. Landing a certain number of scatter symbols—often three or more—will unlock bonus rounds, free spins, or other special features.
For instance, if you land three scatter symbols anywhere on the reels, you might be awarded ten free spins, for example. During these spins, additional features such as multipliers or expanded wilds might become activated. Scatter symbols are often designed to match the slot game's theme, making them easy to identify and adding to the overall aesthetic.
How clusters and scatters help gameplay
Both clusters and scatters add variety and another layer to online Slots. Clusters shift away from the conventional paylines, allowing for more dynamic and unpredictable gameplay.
Scatters, on the other hand, often act as the gateway to what you might consider to be the games best features. Because they don’t always need to be aligned in a specific way, scatters create more opportunities for triggering bonuses. This unpredictability keeps players spinning, as every spin holds the potential for something special, even though a win is never guaranteed.
Why you might want to look out for these features
When choosing an online slot game, it’s worth considering whether it includes cluster mechanics, scatter symbols, cascading reels, bonus rounds, free spin opportunities etc, in order to find the game that suits your preferences. Understanding how these elements work is key to finding the best game for you.
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Now you know a little more about Slots and what you can find within, what type of reels will you be spinning next? Of course, as ever, the choice is yours.
