Whether it be down to the mechanics, theme, or bonus features it boasts, when a slot becomes popular, it doesn’t take long for developers to follow up with a fresh new version. There are so many great sequels in the iGaming world today, and in some cases, these spin-offs tend to be bigger and more impressive than their predecessors. By allowing studios to experiment with new bonuses, graphical tweaks and other nuanced systems, slot sequels retain the format of the original whilst still crafting new experiences at the same time. As a result of there being no shortage of follow-ups to casino staples today, we have selected some of the most played slot sequels, which are top entrants in the casino scene.
Fishin’ Frenzy Megaways
Starting with one of the most iconic sequels ever released, Fishin Frenzy Megaways was published by slot innovators Blueprint Gaming to follow up on the original, which became an immediate hit. Through its nautical graphics and layered free spin round with fisherman wilds and fish value symbols, this set a blueprint for many other fishing-themed releases to follow. However, Fishin’ Frenzy Megaways arguably did this better than any other genre entrant.
This sequel preserved everything that players enjoyed about the predecessor, but implemented a modern twist with the Megaways engine. This boosted the number of paylines up to 15,625 as the 6-reel playgrid changed its number of rows in each spin. As a consequence of the new setup, this completely overhauled the base gameplay, something which delivered a fresh experience whilst still respecting the roots of the original.
Temple of Iris 2
While the first game became popular for its simplistic, traditional Egyptian theme and its straightforward bonus round, the Temple of Iris 2 sequel brought in some visual upgrades and some smoother gameplay. This is one of the sequels which decides to refine the experience as opposed to reinventing it, making sure the graphics are higher quality and the overall gameplay works better than the original.
Features such as the canopic jar multipliers and a free spins round, which is retriggerable, add depth to this Eyecon-developed sequel, all without overcomplicating things too. Some sequels often struggle by changing too much and keeping the core mechanics intact, but Temple of Iris has succeeded since its release in early 2020.
Treasures of Kilauea 2
Treasures of Kilauea 2 was an anticipated sequel considering the original already made waves thanks to its fiery Hawaiian volcano visuals and abundance of bonus modifiers. Even though the predecessor had its fair share of bonuses, this follow-up builds on the core gameplay even further with even more nuanced mechanics.
Bonus wheels, stacked symbols, multiplier magma balls, jackpots, respin rounds, and sticky frames are just a couple of innovative components in Treasures of Kilauea 2. Even with all the new additions, the game retains its tropical island-inspired aesthetic and doesn’t lose the franchise’s identity in the process.
Area Link Phoenix Firestorm
Despite them being a new name in the development world, Areas Vegas have already become one of the most exciting studios that bring their own creative flair to the table. Gaining a lot of notoriety for their new, multi-playgrid-centred Area Link mechanic, this was carried over from the game that originally introduced it into the Area Link Phoenix sequel. The same layered respin round and fixed jackpots make a return; however, it is the new phoenix egg modifiers which overhaul this follow-up. These could trigger things such as flaming multipliers, duplicated playtables, prize collectors and symbol upgrades, each of which expands on the gameplay blueprint meaningfully.
12 Pots Of Gold Drums
The original 9 Pots of Gold has remained one of Gameburger Studios’ longest-standing releases for some time now. This Irish release merges Emerald Isle visuals with an innovative prize ladder mechanic, the latter of which has since been adopted by a plethora of this developer’s alternative releases. 12 Pots Of Gold Drums retains all of these elements; however, it introduces drum wilds, which could be collected to trigger random jackpots. Besides this, there is also a free spins round which features an expanded playtable, as well as a progressive multiplier system. The Irish charm stays the exact same in the sequel, as clovers, harps, leprechaun hats and pots of gold could all land in this bright green title.
Golden Winner Grand Chance
The final of the most popular slot sequels on the iGaming market right now is Golden Winner Grand Chance. This retains all of the classic fruit machine imagery and the simplified base gameplay formula, which made the classic Golden Winner a hit for Inspired Gaming. The main differences, however, come through the free spins round as golden cherry prize value symbols, bell collectors and a progressive metre containing retriggers and multipliers add new layers to this game. The sequel in question doesn’t try to be too complex, considering its retro aesthetic, instead adding some extra elements to the tried and tested design.
