The Most Exciting Slots of 2022
As the holiday season entered its busiest stretch, attention was already shifting to the iGaming releases expected in 2022.
One certainty for the year ahead was a steady stream of new video slots. The article reported that more than 100 software development teams were producing an average of 20 new titles each week.
Would those launches displace the games already leading the popularity charts? Only the months of 2022 could answer that. The article anticipated a few standout newcomers, but suggested many of the year’s most compelling options might already be available.
Here are some titles the original article expected to remain among the most-played at online casinos:
Big Bad Wolf Megaways (Quickspin)
Released in 2021, Big Bad Wolf Megaways followed Quickspin’s best-known slot, adapting it to the Megaways format. A spin could produce up to 117,649 ways to win. The review rated the sequel above the original and called it Quickspin’s strongest title at the time. It highlighted the 30,540x top payout, changing Megaways layout, free spins, progressive multipliers and tumbling reels.
Gems Infinity Reels (ReelPlay/Yggdrasil)
The original review considered the Infinity Reels feature a notable step in slot design after Megaways. When a winning combination lands, another reel appears on the right and the win multiplier increases. This continues until a spin produces no further win; in theory, the reels can keep growing without a fixed limit. Gems Infinity Reels stood out to the reviewer for its visuals and additional bonus features, including free spins.
Wolf Gold (Pragmatic Play)
Pragmatic Play had a strong year, the article reported, capped by its Slot Provider of the Year award at the 2021 SBC Awards on December 14. The company released more than 50 titles in 2021, yet many players still preferred Wolf Gold, which was then 4 years old. The 25-payline game features 3 jackpots (Mini, Major and Mega), free spins, re-spins and a top payout of 125,000 coins.
Starburst (NetEnt)
With its vivid visuals and enduring place among the most-played online casino slots, Starburst was expected to remain popular through 2022. Its frequent appearance in casino free spins promotions was linked to its broad appeal. Gameplay is simple and low variance, with 10 paylines; wins can form in both directions, and sticky expanding wilds activate the signature re-spin feature.
Book of Dead (Play’n GO)
Like Starburst, Book of Dead continued to attract players despite newer competition. Some slot fans consider it the best of all time, although opinions vary. Its 10 paylines, high variance and familiar Riche Wilde character contribute to its appeal. The 5,000x payout and free spins round with expanding symbols may also draw players in.
Welcome the New Year in Style
Looking ahead to 2022, there was also cause to celebrate the games already available. The slots above, along with many other titles, were expected to remain chart favourites over the coming year.
Evan Carrington brings more than 12 years of experience in the iGaming industry, with a focus on reviewing online casinos, assessing slot games and examining player safety. Their work covers casino licensing, RTP, volatility, bonus terms and withdrawal policies. Drawing on practical testing and independent research, Evan provides clear, evidence-based reviews to help players understand gambling platforms, their features and possible risks.
