If there’s a race in the gaming industry among genres, casual games are winning. Most of them mobile-first, these games reach a never-before-seen audience and beat the living daylights out of any other, PC and console games included. Casual games lead both in terms of revenues and in the number of players they attract. Except when it comes to slot machines that outperform them both when it comes to variety and reach.
Come to think of it, online slots and casual games share many features – although there are quite a few differences between the two genres. Let’s take a look at these today.
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What slot machines and casual games have in common
Obviously, both casual games and slot machines were built with the purpose of entertaining their players. They are omnipresent, with the leading app marketplaces being filled to the brim with them. Another similarity between the two is that they are perfect to be played on smartphones. Plus, there’s the question of play time: both casual games and slot machines can be played for as long or as little as you want.
In short, both game types are the perfect way to entertain yourself on the go, even when you only have a few minutes to spare.
What the main differences are between casual games and slot machines
While both casual games and slot machines are built with the purpose of generating revenue for their publishers, the way they do this differs fundamentally. Casual games make profits from in-app ads and microtransactions, while in the case of slots, players stake money directly on them.
Then, there’s the fundamental nature of the gameplay. In casual games, skill is often the most important factor. In slot machines, it’s chance – you need to be lucky to win. This makes slot machines far less enjoyable for many players.
Another fundamental difference between the two is progression. Casual games often have a story through which players can progress, while slot machines don’t. Besides, in casual games, players progress through maps, collect XP, and level up. In slot machines, this is missing in most cases, with the game offering the same experience throughout gaming sessions. There are, of course, a few slot machines where players progress – Rabcat’s “Castle Builder” comes to mind.
Finally, there’s the question of social interaction. Slot machines are fundamentally a solitary experience, while casual games often include either some form of multiplayer gameplay or at least leaderboards and ways to interact with other players.
Are slot machines casual games?
While slot machines and casual games do share some features, slot machines are not exactly casual games. Casual games are designed for casual or leisurely play and include various genres such as puzzle games, arcade games, simulation games, and more.
Both slot machines and casual games are fun to play, the primary difference lies in the purpose and mechanics. Slot machines involve real money or prizes, whereas casual games are more focused on providing entertainment without the gambling element.