Slot machines are undoubtedly the most popular game type at casinos, online and offline. Watching reels spin and waiting for matching icons to align fills us with excitement. If we get lucky, we can pocket some hefty wins. In some cases, these amounts can be life-changing. Still, playing slots can be a solitary activity, especially when we do it online.
Many casinos, land-based and online, host slot tournaments where players can compete against each other and win a share of massive prize pools. Although they are based on the same principle, online and offline slots differ. This article compares the two formats to help you decide which one may be more suitable for you.
Online vs Offline Slot Tournaments: Similarities and Differences
It is easy to understand how slot tournaments work. Whether you join them at online or brick-and-mortar casinos, you must play eligible slot machines. For instance, 32Red slot tournaments online are typically held on some of the most popular slot games, such as Avalon or Thunderstruck. As you play participating games, you will climb the leaderboard and qualify for one of the prizes based on your performance or the amount you have wagered.
These are pretty much all the similarities between the two formats of slot competitions. Now, onto the differences. We list some main aspects to consider when choosing a tourney to join.
Exclusiveness
Offline slot tourneys tend to be exclusive, meaning you may need an invitation to participate. They are typically reserved for VIP casino guests with a loyalty program card. So, the casino invites players based on their overall gaming activity.
On the other hand, online slot tournaments are inclusive, meaning that, in most cases, all players can join them. These competitions also have specific requirements, but they are more relaxed.
Buy-Ins
While both online and offline slot tournaments may require buy-ins, those at brick-and-mortar casinos may be considerably higher. They can go up to 500 GBP, on top of the money you wager on participating games. Add travel and accommodation costs to these amounts, and you can easily tell why land-based slot tourneys are not budget-friendly.
At online casinos, you can find many tournaments where all you have to do to take part is to place a minimum bet on selected games. Also, they are just a click away, so you can opt in from the comfort of your home or on the go.
Games
Another aspect where online casinos beat their offline counterparts is the game variety. Today, most online casinos host tournaments in partnership with providers. Hence, you can pick whichever game you like from the chosen company. At the same time, offline slot tourneys may offer limited gaming options.
Prizes
Truth be told, prize pools in offline tournaments can be considerably bigger. However, that’s not the reason to dismiss online slot tournaments, given that they are more accessible.
At land-based casinos, you can win free-play or cash prizes. At the same time, online slot competitions may offer cash prizes, bonuses and free spins. Cash prizes with no wagering requirements are the best option, hands down.
Atmosphere
If there is one reason why you should choose an offline slot tournament over the one held by a casino site, it is the atmosphere. You can meet fellow players face-to-face and make friends while enjoying your favourite slot games. Unfortunately, when playing online, despite the social element slot tourneys have, it’s still you and your desktop or mobile device.
Why Are Online Slot Tournaments Better?
All things considered, we prefer online slot tournaments for many reasons. First and foremost, they are a cost-effective option because you don’t have to travel to a casino to take part or spend money on expensive buy-ins. They also offer more variety in games, and you can always find one to join wherever you are.
