The Best and Worst Slot Sequels
You've heard the saying about sequels, haven't you?
The general belief is that follow-ups rarely match up to their original versions, and for me, that feels like an undeniable truth, almost like a psychological axiom.
When you see a sequel to a movie or a game, it's typically because its predecessor was a massive commercial success. This success often breeds a sense of nostalgia among fans.
Nostalgia is a potent force. When people encounter the sequel, they're bound to measure it against the warm memories of its predecessor rather than the present reality.
We'll explore whether some of the blockbuster online casino sequels can rival the originals. slot machine First on the list is the iconic Starburst, released back in 2013, marking a golden period for online slots. Gone were the days of cumbersome downloads, and the visuals reached impressive new heights. While many games still missed a melody, there was clearly a shift happening.
Starburst and Starburst XXXTreme
Starburst gained fame for several reasons. It was as much about the unforgettable space-themed soundtrack as it was about its thrilling re-spins with wild reels. Plus, the unique feature of winning in both directions added to its straightforward yet charming gameplay. online casino business Fast forward around eight years, and we have Starburst XXXTreme's arrival.
Unfortunately, Starburst XXXTreme didn't quite evolve much beyond a visual remix of the original, with much of the aesthetic and soundscape intact. Disappointingly, the dual-direction win lines were axed, substituted by wilds with variable multipliers.
It is almost baffling that it took NetEnt For me, XXXTreme felt more like a missed opportunity. I expected NetEnt to explore something revitalizing with their cherished franchise. A fresh set of graphics, a groovy twist on the soundtrack, and a real free spins feature could've been game-changers.
Remember the hype around vampire flicks like Twilight? Though I might not, it's apparent NetEnt took a page from that book with Bloodsuckers in 2013. The bonus rounds in this game even let players stake vampire hearts!
The original Bloodsuckers holds its status as one of the industry titans with an exceptionally high RTP. Combine this with its low volatility, and you have a newbie-friendly game that most casinos shy away from, especially for bonus wagering.
Bloodsuckers and Bloodsuckers II
Come 2017, a fresh coat of paint was applied to this classic.
Bloodsuckers II stood its ground gracefully, echoing its forebear's low-risk charm but dialed down the RTP for better bonus compatibility. Enhancements in sound and graphics made it not just a worthy sequel but potentially even more engaging than its predecessor!
Esqueleto Explosivo and its successor...
Does anyone not enjoy the lively spirit of Mexican mariachi bands? Doubtful!
In the 2014 explosion of colors—Esqueleto Explosivo—you were met with a feast for the eyes and ears. Players aimed to craft winning combos that caused the skulls to sing and shatter joyfully, while new skulls amplified the multiplier with each triumphant note.
Esqueleto Explosivo 2 surfaced at the dawn of 2020. Taking a glance at the screenshots will show you the similarity in artistic design, but key differences emerge: the sequel brought along a free spins mode and shifted to a much higher volatility.
If you have never tried Thunderkick Crack the free spins in Esqueleto 2, and you'll grasp why it's a refreshing and deserving continuation!
In my opinion, online casino enthusiasts fall into two camps... Those who adore Reactoonz and those who do not.
This division stems from the game's 2017 launch, captivating legions with its departure from standard payline slots. It engaged the mind while offering an unusual, exciting format.
Reactoonz and Dr Toonz
Yet for some, including myself, Reactoonz was more of a rollercoaster with its highly volatile nature and quantum win meter. It could be infuriating, teetering so close to the brilliant Gargantoon move.
Before Dr Toonz entered the scene, Reactoonz 2 was introduced, largely extending the same formula. That's why I prefer to delve into Dr Toonz, which, despite being a spin-off, feels more like an authentic sequel.
Dr Toonz shifts the dynamics by offering 4096 ways to win rather than requiring complex cluster formations, making it much more digestible. This sequel delivers humor aplenty with its outstanding auditory effects and grand new features like a refined quantum meter and a distinct free spins mode.
Granted, Play’n GO Notably absent from my rundown are the Megaways editions. This is because they're mostly mere high-volatility revamps of old titles. Crafting these sequels isn't as groundbreaking as inventing fresh concepts. That said, I'm fond of the twist Megaways bring, with Twin Spin being a prime example!
Though my catalog today isn't exhaustive, I might revisit the fascinating world of slot sequels another time.
Honourable mentions
In concluding, it's evident that slot sequels can surpass their origins with a dash of creativity. To invigorate your new project, consider an opposite approach if your initial offering favored high variance. Furthermore, spotlighting standout aspects like never before will only add to the excitement!
Conclusion
Jouni is a Finnish journo with a wealth of writing expertise, ranging from gaming and film critiques to casino-related content—always thriving in creativity.
An established cornerstone in gaming circles, Jouni brings extensive insights about online casinos and games, making him a standout choice for evaluating gambling locales.
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