8-reel slots fall into the category of the big slot machines. Although the unique layout of 8×8 grids certainly provides software developers with plenty of space for creativity, you are unlikely to encounter too many slots with 8 columns in online casinos. This type of slot seems to be less popular than their counterparts with a large number of reels, such as 7- or 9-reel games. If you are wondering why the answer is that in general even-numbered slot machines are rare. The most popular titles all feature an odd number of reels.
If you would like to get to know more about this unique category of games, keep reading. Today, we will discuss shortly the history of 8-reels irish best online slots and see what makes these games so special.
The Predecessors of 8-Reel Games
Classic slot machine games, such as 3- and 5-reel slots, have a long history that goes back right until the 19th century. After the invention of the first poker machine and the slot machine in the 1890s, many different types of machines have been manufactured in the United States. However, two things were common in the first models of slot machines. They all had a lever that was required to spin the drums. Plus, all of them featured a lower number of reels. Usually 3 or 5, but sometimes 4.
For instance, the first poker machine had 5, the Liberty Bell machine (Charles Fey's invention) 3, and the first video slot from 1976 4 reels. As you can see, none of these machines had 8 drums, but they were based on the same mechanism as 8-reel slots. Therefore, they are considered the predecessors of 8-reel slots.
The Appearance of the 8th Reel
Players had to wait for the appearance of the first online slot machines until the mid-1990s. Back then, online casinos had a much smaller game library than today, offering mostly some traditional titles with 3 spinning reels. Compared to today's stunning 3D games, the first online games were simple and come with only a few features. However, people found them entertaining enough in the 90s. By the 2000s, the online versions had become the new mainstream. Thus, software development companies like Microgaming and WMS kept developing new variations.
As time passed, these slots advanced a lot in many aspects. It's enough thinking about the changes in gameplay, sound effects, graphics, animations, and bonus features. Also, besides the basic formats, new innovative layouts showed up, including those with 8 columns.
Why 8-Column Games Are Special
When it comes to the different slot variations, the majority of them have 3 or 5 reels. The reason why is that these games are sufficient to meet most players' gaming needs. They have a simple approach and provide enough gaming possibilities to keep the players entertained for a long time. Moreover, they offer an appropriate number of paylines. But if they are so great why 8-reel slots have come into existence?
It's hard to say exactly why. However, most likely, developers saw the opportunity of providing a higher number of gaming possibilities through the bigger layout. For them, more space meant more symbol combinations and more ways to win.
If you have never seen an 8-reel game before, chances are that at first you will be shocked. Compared to their classic counterparts, these games have too many columns, rows, and symbols. Although you may find all these confusing in the beginning – especially if you are used to playing games with a lower number of reels -, you can get used to the new layout very quickly. 8-reel slots are very interesting and fun, thanks to the complexity of gameplay. They offer players hundreds or thousands of different ways to win. Hence, when playing these games you can expect new and exciting gaming experiences.
Examples of 8-Reel Slot Machines
As mentioned above, 8-reel variations are quite rare. Therefore, you might need to do some digging to find the perfect choice for you. To help you, we brought you two fantastic games that are both worth trying.
Jammin' Jars
Jammin' Jars is a colorful game created by Push Gaming. This slot has an 8×8 grid format and uses a cascading mechanic. This means that when a winning combination is formed, the involved symbols disappear from the grid and new symbols fall to replace them.
When it comes to graphics, it might remind you of the popular game called Candy Crush. The symbols in this title have a vivid design. There are altogether 6 fruit symbols and a Jammin' Jar Wild. The soundtrack is a funky disco tune that perfectly matches the disco-themed background. When playing Jammin' Jars, you get a chance at winning massive prizes!
Astro Cat Deluxe
Astro Cat Deluxe is another thrilling 8-reel slot with an Asian theme. This unusual slot was developed by Lightning Box. Unlike Jammin' Jars, this title doesn't have an 8×8 grid layout. While the first 2 and the last 2 reels consist of 3 rows, the 4 reels in the middle have 4 rows.
Astro Cat Deluxe features many classic Asian symbols, such as fish, dragons, and frogs. Besides, this slot offers 4 different jackpots for the players: Mini, Minor, Major, and Grand. This game might be a great choice for you if you like Asian-themed games and huge payouts.
The Bottom Line
Although the category of 8-reel slots isn't filled with a high number of games, you can still find some outstanding games with 8 reels. Due to the large grid and complex gameplay, these variations are full of surprises. Don't hesitate to give a shot at these unusual slot games. You won't regret it!
