The online casino world has come a long way since the first sites started popping up in the mid-1990s. In the past 25 years, certain casino games have stood the test of time and become iconic staples that every gambler knows and loves.
While flashy new video slots and game shows continue to be released every month, the classics retain their strong fan bases. Games like online slots, video poker, blackjack, roulette and baccarat aren’t going anywhere.
Online Slots
The online slots genre has exploded over the past two decades. While the catalog of slots on such platforms as Casino Spinsy numbers into the thousands, a few key titles have become legends in the industry.
- Mega Moolah, Microgaming – Released in 2006, the African safari-themed Mega Moolah made history for its record-shattering progressive jackpot payouts, including a payout of €18.9 million in 2018, landed by a lucky British soldier. Over the years, Mega Moolah has paid out over €1 billion in winnings.
- Starburst, NetEnt – Featuring a colorful outer space theme, Starburst is known for its exciting Expanding Wilds feature and high RTP of 96.1%. It remains one of the most played online slots in the world.
- Book of Dead, Play’n GO – This Egyptian adventure slot combines Indiana Jones style excitement with the popular expanding reels mechanic. Its high volatility makes for some heart-stopping spins.
Blackjack
As one of the world’s most popular casino card games, blackjack has also found great success online. Multi-hand blackjack allows you to play up to 5 hands simultaneously for faster action. Popular variants like Double Exposure and Switch blackjack also mix up the rules for added twists.
Roulette
Roulette may be an old game, but it still captivates both new and returning players with its simple yet exciting format of guessing where the ball will land. American and European roulette remain player favorites, while innovations like 3D roulette bring new levels of immersion.
Video Poker
The video poker genre fuses slot machine gameplay with classic poker hand rankings. Jacks or Better, Deuces Wild and Joker Poker are the most common variants. Top video poker machines offer over 99% RTP.
Poker
Texas hold ’em poker exploded in popularity globally in the early 2000s, thanks in part to Chris Moneymaker’s famous 2003 WSOP main event win after qualifying via online satellite. Today, hold ’em remains the dominant online poker variant, though Omaha, stud, draw poker and more all have their niche.
Baccarat
James Bond’s casino game of choice, online baccarat gives players an up close view of this elegant game via streaming video feeds. Bet on the banker, player or tie from the comfort of home. Speed baccarat and live dealer baccarat are popular ways to play.
Craps
Shooting dice with cheers and groans from fellow players – it’s an experience every casino gamer should try. While live casinos are the best way to soak up the social atmosphere of craps, online variants do a decent job of capturing the action.
Keno
For a slower-paced lottery-style game, online keno fits the bill. Players choose numbers on their keno cards and see which numbers hit each round. Video keno plays out on screens, while live dealer keno features real draws.
Bingo
Bingo evolved from a smoke-filled hall game for seniors into an online sensation with huge prize pools. 90 ball bingo is the norm, though 30 ball and 75 ball bingo have their niches. Chat games allow you to kibitz with other players right from your tablet or phone.
Scratch Cards
For easy casual play, virtual scratch cards provide entertainment without complexity. Themes range from pots of gold to luxury vacations, with some of the top prizes reaching £100K GBP or more. Scratch 2 Cash, King Kong Cash and Diamond Deal are a few popular scratchies.
Still Reigning Supreme
| Game Genre | Sample Games | Key Attributes |
| Online slots | Starburst, Gonzo’s Quest, Mega Moolah | Innovative features, massive jackpots, branded themes |
| Blackjack | Classic, Double Exposure, Spanish 21 | Simple rules, low house edge, card counting strategies |
| Roulette | European, American, 3D Roulette | Elegant wheel spin excitement, variety of bets |
| Video poker | Jacks or Better, Deuces Wild, Joker Poker | Large payouts if played with optimal strategy |
| Poker | Texas Hold ’em, Omaha, 7-Card Stud | Psychological elements, pro tournaments |
| Baccarat | Punto Banco, Live Dealer Baccarat | James Bond’s game, simple banker vs. player gameplay |
| Craps | Standard, High Roller, Live Dealer | Electric social atmosphere, dice shooting action |
| Keno | Video Keno, Live Draw Keno | Lottery style play, potential for massive payouts |
| Bingo | 90 Ball, 75 Ball, 30 Ball | Chat room atmosphere, huge linked jackpots |
| Scratchcards | Scratch 2 Cash, King Kong Cash | Casual instant play, big top prizes |
While new online casino games will continue to emerge, the classics aren’t going anywhere. Slots, blackjack, roulette and more have proven their staying power over the past 25 years by continuing to attract both new and returning players.
Their iconic statuses have made them must-play games for anyone signing up for real money online casino accounts. Even as you check out the latest innovations, be sure to allocate some bankroll to experiencing these greatest hits for yourself.
