Pokies are the quintessential casino game that has been around since the time of the one-armed bandit. As the game has evolved and become more refined, slot machines have changed a great deal to offer more features, bonus rounds, animation and massive payouts.
Ever since award-winning game developers collaborated with blockbuster movie makers, 3D pokies now feature video clips, realistic artwork and mind-blowing action with every spin of the reels.
Playing pokies for real cash has never been more exciting with its high entertainment value and the chance to win a life-changing sum of money all in one place.
What are 3D pokies?
3D pokies are online casino slot games known for their high-quality graphics and immersive experience. These games leverage the latest gaming technology, including random number generators (RNG) for fair play, and often feature interactive bonus rounds. The 3D, enhanced graphics in these pokies set them apart from traditional 2D slots, offering players a more engaging and visually compelling gaming experience.
When casino game software developers successfully claim the relevant license and create a video slot based on a movie from a major franchise, for instance, the pokie will feature images of the actors, snippets showing portions of the film and sound effects. You will be swept back to the time you watched the movie at the cinema!
The storyline will also remain true to the movie where the good guys earn you massive prizes and the bad guys activate explosive bonus rounds. These features will either help or harm your status in the game. The mega wins line up when you successfully land symbols featuring the hero and the game celebrates your win with a soundtrack that gets your heart racing.
3D pokies aren’t only movie-themed though. With the range of casino games on offer, casino players can enjoy games that take you on a journey through ancient Egypt, scare you to death with vampires, and send you on a quest with dragons, dwarfs and wizards. There really is something for everyone and by checking out our guide to the best 3D pokies, you can be sure you are on the path to success.
Getting to know the Pokie lingo
Every casino game has its own terminology which can take a bit of time to get used to. Here are three of the most popular terms you will hear as you check out some of the award-winning slot games on offer.
What are reels and rows?
Reels and rows are the foundational components of 3D pokies, dictating the gameplay mechanics and the visual layout of the game, all while interacting with the game’s RNG system to produce random and fair game outcomes. All online pokies are played in the format of a grid that consists of 3 or more reels that land symbols in rows. While the reels run vertically, the rows are set up horizontally.
The visual representation of reels and rows is enhanced with advanced graphics, making the gaming experience more immersive. The alignment of symbols across the reels and rows, especially in combination with the game’s bonus features, determines the payout, or in gambling terms, the game’s Return to Player (RTP) percentage.
What are paylines?
Paylines are specific lines in slot machines where symbols must align to form winning combinations. The number of paylines varies between machines, affecting the probability of winning and the size of the payout. In multi-line slots, players can bet on multiple paylines, increasing their chances of hitting a winning combination. Paylines are central to the mechanics of slot games, interacting with elements like wild and scatter symbols, which can substitute for other symbols or trigger wins irrespective of paylines.
The paytable in each slot game provides details on how paylines work, the value of different symbol combinations, and the rules for wild and scatter symbols.
By activating every payline, you can then win no matter where the symbols land as long as they meet the requirements specified by the paytable.
What does it mean when the slot claims to pay 243 ways?
When a slot machine claims to pay “243 ways,” it means that the game uses a specific “ways-to-win” format rather than traditional paylines. A slot machine with 243 ways to win allows for winning combinations across all possible left-to-right symbol combinations on the reels, disregarding traditional line patterns. This format increases the chances of winning on each spin, as there are more ways for a winning combination to occur.
Of course, games that include bonus rounds and multipliers add even more to the payout which makes it even more profitable.
What are the benefits of playing online pokies?
The benefits of online slots, and 3D pokies in particular, are that they up the ante when it comes to free spins, bonus rounds and multipliers. When the reels serve up bonuses that multiply your winnings, offer you the chance to spin a wheel of fortune or to spin the reels again without using your own money, your winnings can start to add up.
Pokies are one of the most popular casino games amongst Australians and offer a RTP of 96% or more on average. This means that over time, you will receive approximately 96 cents to every $1 spent as you spin and win.
How do I find the best 3D pokies?
To find the best 3D pokies, consider the following six features:
- Graphics and Gameplay: Prioritize finding games with high-quality, innovative, and engaging visual effects. Look for games with smooth mechanics, interesting themes, and features that enhance the experience.
- Reviews and Ratings: Check out reviews and ratings from users and experts as they provide insights into the game’s popularity, performance, and reliability. Look for pokies that are consistently rated highly for their 3D effects, user experience, and fair play.
- User Experience: A good 3D pokie should offer easy navigation, fast loading times, and intuitive gameplay. The overall experience should be enjoyable and engaging, keeping you entertained.
- Variety: Explore a variety of 3D pokies to understand the different themes, styles, and features available. This variety will not only keep your gaming experience fresh but also help you identify what kind of 3D pokies you enjoy the most.
- Gaming Platforms: Choose reputable gaming platforms that are licensed and have good security measures in place. Some platforms might also offer free trials or demos, allowing you to experience the game before committing real money.
- Software Developers: Choose from the likes of Microgaming, NetEnt, Evolution Gaming and BetSoft to spot casino games that play well and pay out as they should.
Top 3D pokies
Here are three of our top favourite 3D pokies for you to check out:
Blood Eternal by BetSoft
This 2017 may be an oldie, but it is still a goodie as you conquer vampires with ornate crosses, holy water, gargoyles and a castle. The 6 reel, 5 row game features 30 fixed paylines and has an RTP of just over 95%.
Jack and the Beanstalk by NetENT
A fairytale-based 3D pokie, Jack will have you spinning your way to massive wins as you unlock free spins, walking wilds, multipliers and a treasure collection. With an RTP of 96.28%, this high volatility game will keep you coming back for more.
Dragonz by Microgaming
These cute baby dragons may seem a little too adorable to make any real impact but this 3D pokie has plenty of bonus features up its sleeve. When flaming, stashed, frosty and winning Wilds make an appearance, you can unlock your choice of free spins in an extravaganza of magical entertainment that offers you an RTP of 96.46%.
How do I play 3D pokies?
To play 3D pokies, the first step is to create an account with a reputable online casino. Once you have purchased some casino credit, you are only moments away from playing 3D pokies for real money.
Depending on the pokie, your bet will be decided by the minimum bet needed for each round, multiplied by the number of paylines activated (where adjustable), times the value of each coin. The great thing about pokies is that your coin value can be adjusted which means that it is entirely up to you as to how you spend your bankroll.
Once you have set your bet, all that is left to do is click the button to set the reels spinning. The reels will come to rest automatically and, should you land a winning combination, the pokie will provide thrilling animations and sound effects as your winnings get tallied and added to your total.
Check out our casino game reviews to find a 3D pokie that suits your tastes and then create an account at one of our recommended online casinos to play games for real money and win.
Top 3D Pokies FAQs
What are 3D pokies?
3D pokies are high animation slot games where video clips, graphics and themes are taken to the next level.
Is playing 3D pokies worth the money?
Yes! Thanks to great bonus features, varying betting options, and many different paylines, you could win big on a single spin of the reels.
What are the best 3D pokies?
The best 3D pokies are ones that provide exceptional graphics and animation, offer a high Return to Player (RTP), include exciting bonus features, provide a first class user experience, and are mobile compatible. While there are thousands of good games to choose, there are a few great options. Take your pick of the best casino games by top software providers such as NetEnt and Microgaming.