Best Video Slots in Ireland for October 2023

In simple terms, video slots are slot machines that feature a video screen instead of mechanical reels. This differentiation was born in land-based casinos, where video slot machines first rose to prominence in the 1980s. In this setting, video slots provide the clear advantage of faster gameplay over games with reels. 

When you play an online slot game, you are technically always playing a video slot because all games are digital without mechanical parts. Even so, people often use the term “video slots” to classify regular online slots, while other categories get their own names, such as jackpot slots or classic slots.

In the land-based casino slot industry, differentiating between the best online real money slots and a classic slot machine is easy. Video slots use a digital screen, while a classic slot machine is a mechanical device. However, in the online industry, all Ireland online casino games are digital/virtual, so the differentiation is less obvious. 

Technically, all online slots are video slots. However, players and casinos still categorise video slots and classic slots differently. 

Classic slots typically have basic gameplay and a much simpler structure. For example, fewer reels, fewer paylines and mostly no bonus features like free spins, scatters and wilds. That makes them an ideal choice for beginners to online slots or players who like fast-paced, simple gameplay. 

Having said that, classic slots do lack the dynamic elements that make video slots so popular. One area where there is a clear difference between the two is in terms of design, audio and theme. Online video slots have rich themes with impressive graphics and immersive soundtracks. Another advantage of playing online is the opportunity to get an slots bonus, which can boost your bankroll significantly.

If you want to get started playing video slots, the following online casinos would be a good place to start. In our experience they offer the best slot selections and a great gaming experience on both desktop and mobile.

If you’re looking for the best Irish slots online, this is the page for you. Both established and new online casinos typically have a library of hundreds if not thousands of slot titles available, so choosing one that's right for you is not easy. That said, the following popular games are a great starting point.

Bloodsuckers – RTP: 98%

Vampire-themed Bloodsuckers from NetEnt has been impressing players since 2009 and remains an outstanding slot game. With 5 reels and 25 paylines, this game has features such as bonus spins with a 3x multiplier and a Vampire Slaying Bonus picking feature. However, this game is all about that 98% RTP, which puts Bloodsuckers in the top bracket of best payout slots. 

Reactoonz – RTP: 96.51%

Known for its bouncy cartoon design, Reactoonz from Play’n GO is a fun-looking video slot that uses an animated alien theme to good effect. It has a dynamic base game where each win charges a metre to potentially land one of the five Quantum features (transforming wilds, low-value symbol upgrades, low-value symbol removals and Gargantoon wilds). Using a 7x7 grid with cascading symbols mechanics, Reactoonz is constantly exciting.

Thunderstruck II – RTP: 96.65%

Microgaming’s Thunderstruck II is an all-time classic with a fantastic maths model. Its above-average RTP and high variance mean the wins flow regularly. Since 2010, Thunderstruck II has been the ultimate Norse mythology-themed slot that has spawned many imitators. The Great Hall of Spins bonus is legendary, providing different numbers of free spins depending on the trigger combination. Other features on the 5-reel slot include the 243-ways-to-win engine.

Starburst – RTP: 96.09%

Proof that video slots do not need to be complicated to be successful, Starburst is a simple game that wows users with its visuals and slick gameplay. NetEnt’s game is a bona fide classic and the most popular online slot ever made. Much of that success comes from the flexibility of Starburst, which offers something for all players. Spin over 5 reels and 10 paylines and soak in the space-style arcade theme. Starburst Wilds are your ticket to the big prizes, providing 3 re-spins and wild reels. 

Book of Ra Deluxe – RTP: 95.1%

As the name suggests, this is the deluxe version of Novomatic’s Book of Ra, perhaps the best adventure-themed slot of all time. You get the standard “Book of” set up of 5 reels and 10 paylines as you attempt to plunder the treasures of ancient Egypt. Don’t be too put off by that below-average RTP, although the extreme volatility means this is the kind of slot where you bet all or nothing. If you’re willing to take the risk, Book of Ra Deluxe delivers with the excellent Free Games feature that offers expanding symbols for big wins.

Fishin’ Frenzy – RTP: 96.12%

Cast off and see if you can reel in a big prize with Fishin’ Frenzy, a popular Blueprint Gaming video slots game with a unique theme. Since arriving in 2014, the game has remained popular thanks to its simple gameplay. Yet, the high volatility means there is always excitement around the corner. Spin on 5 reels and bet on up to 10 paylines, with the bonus spins feature being your gateway to the fish-catching bonus round. 

Wizard of Oz – RTP: 95.99%

Wizard of Oz from SG Interactive is a popular video slot available at many Irish online casinos. It takes a hugely popular theme and applies slick visuals and dynamic gameplay for an all-round solid video slots experience. With 5 reels and 30 paylines, Wizard of Oz has several bonus features, such as the Winged Monkey and Emerald City. 

The Goonies – RTP: 96.00%

Some of the best online video slots of all time are based on well-known TV shows or movies, and The Goonies is among the greatest. Blueprint has taken a cult classic ‘80s film and turned it into a thrill ride of a slot with a massive 12 bonus features. On the 5 reels and 20 paylines, you get stacked wilds alongside the ability to trigger a bonus feature such as free spins, multipliers, win spins and more. 

Book of Dead – RTP: 96.2%

Book of Dead is the flagship slot from Play’n GO and one of the most popular video slots ever. You take control of Rich Wilde as he seeks ancient Egyptian treasures in an adventure setting. The 5 reels and 10 paylines point to a basic game, but Book of Dead is surprisingly flexible thanks to its free spins, which can potentially be triggered an unlimited number of times.

Video slots boast many of the same gameplay elements as other online slot games. Players place a bet and spin reels featuring symbols of varying values. Wins come from landing winning combinations of those symbols or by triggering bonus rounds. Understanding the following core elements of the best video slot online games will enhance your experience further:

• RNG: Online slot sites use random number generator (RNG) technology to decide the outcomes of spins. This means all spins of the reel are decided by random chance, with no influence from the provider, the casino or the player.
• Number of Reels/Paylines: Video slots come in various configurations, which means the number of reels, rows and paylines available. Standard configurations include 5 reels, 3 to 5 rows, and between 10 and 25 paylines.
• Symbols: On each reel, you will find various symbols that each have a value order from a low value (card symbols) to a high value (scatters, wilds, bonus, jackpot). Wins happen on a video slot game when pre-determined combinations of these symbols land on the reels.
• House Edge: This is the weighting on slot games that determines how much profit the casino makes off players on average. If a game has a house edge of 3%, it means over enough spins of the reels, the casino will take 3% in profits.
• RTP: Return to Player (RTP) is one of the determining factors of the house edge. It is a number that highlights how much video slots pay back to players on average. In theory, games with a higher RTP will pay out more to players than a game with a low RTP.

Here's a selection of some of the best slots out there with very high RTPs:

While all games at online casinos, from the best online poker sites to specialist slot sites, are decided by random chance (except for live table games), having a fundamental knowledge of video slots may help you keep your bankroll longer. Below you can read our straightforward overview detailing the basics of online slots:

• Paytable: All slots have a graphic information section known as a paytable where you can see details on the game, winning symbol combinations, bet limits, available features and the jackpot.
• Coins/Bets (budget): All Irish online casino games have a specific bet limit showing the minimum and maximum you can bet on each payline per spin.
• Type of Slots: As well as the best online video slots, you can also choose to play jackpot slots, progressive jackpot slots, and classic slots at the online casinos we recommend.
• Jackpots: Jackpot slot amounts vary greatly. Some video slots will have a large jackpot while others a more modest top prize. Video slots are fixed jackpot games, meaning the top prize never changes.
• Bonus Rounds: Video slots differentiate themselves from classic slots in the way they include bonus rounds and features. Check the paytable to see which bonus feature your selected game has and how you can trigger the bonuses.

When you register as a new player at one of the video slot sites we recommend, there are always nice online slot offers waiting for you. Whether a welcome package for new customers or a reward for ongoing players, top bonuses will help you maintain your bankroll and even extend it. Yet, it is essential always to read the T&Cs of a bonus to know the wagering requirement and any restrictions when trying to find the best casino bonus for you. 

Our team of experts finds the top online casino bonuses out there and makes the terms and conditions clear for you to compare the best deals online. There are tons of offers around, including the following promos you can find at many online casinos:

Welcome Bonus

This is your introductory offer to an online casino that you can claim by registering with the site. Unless you are looking at specialist blackjack casinos, for example, which will naturally release offers aimed specifically at blackjack, most welcome bonuses are deposit deals and often include free spins for popular slots on top. Welcome packages are often the most lucrative offer an online casino has. 

Here are some of the best welcome bonuses available in Ireland right now:

We select only the most reputable and respected online casinos to recommend to our readers. Still, thousands of video slots are available, so choosing the best real-money slots for you can be a little more challenging. With the tips below, you will be able to apply some knowledge to help you pick the best online video slots.  

• Search for online casinos: Game collections change from casino to casino, so comparing multiple sites is the best way to find the games you enjoy. And by selecting one of our recommended sites, you are guaranteed a trustworthy and top-quality brand that will also allow you to play online mobile slots seamlessly. 
• Try the slot in demo mode: When you choose an online slot, give it some spins in demo mode. Casinos provide free access to games. While you cannot win real money, the opportunity to play free slots is not one to be missed, since they are great for getting to know a new game and practising.
• Read video slots reviews: Found a game and like how it looks? Reading reviews will help you understand if your first impressions are good or whether the slot may not be as incredible as you first thought.

Video slots are the most popular category at online casinos, so providers are constantly rolling out new games. Below are some of the best online video slots that made their debut recently:

Bee Hive Bonanza – RTP: 96.09%

One of NetEnt’s new slots, Bee Hive Bonanza, is already grabbing the attention of players. It boasts the usual visual splendour and gameplay quality we expect from NetEnt. Bee Hive Bonanza plays on 5 reels and 5 paylines, making this an ideal video slot for beginners. However, other types of players will also be interested thanks to the game’s Avalanche symbols and free spins. 

Mystery Woods – RTP: 94%

This popular 1x2 Gaming slot game was released in 2022. Mystery Woods provides a solid jackpot that can net you up to 12,500x your stake. 5 reels and 20 paylines are your starting point towards the prize pot, with additional features such as wilds, mystery symbols and free spins. It is also worth noting this slots game looks fantastic, adding fresh appeal to the well-worn enchanted forest genre. 

Space Goonz – RTP: 96.65%

Another visually stunning new video slot is Habanero’s Space Goonz, which has an alien theme with cute graphics and cartoon vibes. Luckily, the game backs up its cool looks with solid gameplay with exciting bonuses such as free spins. On the slot’s 5x4 reels you’ll find modern graphics, immaculate theming and much more. 

Ark of Ra – RTP: 96.14%

Circular Arrow is taking a stab at the ancient Egypt slot with Ark of Ra, a video slot with 5 reels, 3 rows, and 20 paylines. It takes a lot to stand out in this busy genre, but the Egyptian vibes of Ark of Ra admittedly look fantastic. We also like the Coin Collect feature that allows you to gather coins over winning spins and trigger a wild if you get enough. 

Castle of Terror – RTP: 96.73%

Big Time Gaming is launching its next blockbuster slot, Castle of Terror, which was released towards the end of last year – just in time for Halloween. The horror visuals look good, and the 61,720x your stake jackpot is one of the higher fixed jackpots around. With its generous 96.73% RTP, expect the game also to be volatile.

Ireland online gambling fans love video slots because of their variety, quality and gameplay. Yet, numerous other advantages and benefits come with playing video slots over different types of slot games, including:

• Ease of playing: Video slot games are easy to play and understand. Even when they have complex features, you simply bet and spin the reels.
• Variety of games: No other Irish online casino game category has as much variety as video slots. There are thousands of games with varying themes, genres, feature sets and budgets.
• Exciting slot tournaments: Online casinos frequently run slot tournaments that allow customers to play video slots to potentially win a separate prize.
• Convenience: You can play video slots anywhere you like on your device, since the best mobile casino operators ensure that the playing experience is equal to that of playing on a desktop. Many have also created dedicated casino apps to win real money on your iPhone or Android device too.
• Rewards and incentives: Casino operators understand the popularity of video slots and often centre casino bonuses and promotions around them, which usually include free spins. Video slots are usually the only games that give a 100% contribution towards a bonus wagering requirement.
• Flexibility in stakes: Unlike progressive slots that require large stakes for potentially huge rewards, video slots are more welcoming. Players of all budgets can play, enjoy and possibly win a video slot.
• Higher payouts: While the payout rate (RTP) of video slots varies greatly, this is the only slot category that will offer payout rates much higher than average.