Explained: Cascading reels in online slots

Anders Lokrantz, Head of Game Studio at Relax Gaming, tells you everything you need to know about cascading reels in online slots, also known as the tumble feature

Cascading reels can now be found in hundreds of online slots. Also known as cluster pays slots or tumble feature slots, they bring additional win opportunities from a single spin. 

The way the feature works is fairly simple. You hit spin and the symbols land on the reels as they would in a standard slot. Those that form winning combinations are then removed with new symbols cascading or tumbling down to fill their place to potentially form more win combos. 

The cascades/tumbles continue until no more win combinations can be formed. This really amps up the win potential from each spin, bringing huge added value to your play. 

To learn more about how the tumble mechanic works, Comparasino spoke to Anders Lokrantz, Head of Game Studio at Relax Gaming, which recently launched a new cascading reels online slot, Ancient Tumble. 

​​How does the tumble mechanic in Ancient Tumble work?

In Ancient Tumble, the tumble mechanic activates whenever a winning combination occurs. Symbols that formed the win will disappear from view, allowing for new symbols to fall into their place from above. This process can create new winning combinations within the same spin, offering players multiple chances to win great cash prizes from a single bet. The tumble mechanic has evolved over the years and we’re confident that players will continue to enjoy it in its latest iteration!

How does the tumble mechanic bring more value to each spin?

The cascade mechanic enhances each spin’s value by giving players additional opportunities to win without placing extra bets. Each tumble sequence can lead to consecutive wins, creating dynamic and engaging gameplay.

How have you innovated around the tumble mechanic in Ancient Tumble and your other games that use it?

In Ancient Tumble, we’ve added numerous features, one for example being multipliers that increase with each consecutive tumble in the Multiplier Ladder Free Spin. This means that the more tumbles a player achieves, the higher their potential payout for each win. Additionally, we’ve incorporated thematic elements and special symbols that trigger unique bonuses during tumbles, making each game session unique and exciting. When doing similar games like Ancient Tumble we always try to make the tumble mechanic feel fresh and exciting.

How do you combine the cascading reels mechanic with other bonus features? Do some bonuses work better than others?

We carefully design our games to integrate the tumble mechanic with a variety of bonus features. For example, free spins can be enhanced with an increased likelihood of tumbles, or certain symbols can become wild during tumbles, boosting potential wins. Some bonuses, like progressive multipliers or cascading wilds, complement the tumble mechanic exceptionally well, creating a more thrilling and rewarding experience for players.

Your Tumble has proved to be a big hit with players – what’s next in the series?

Without saying too much we can promise that players can expect even more engaging storylines, enhanced graphics, and unique bonus rounds that will keep them entertained and eager for each spin.

What else can UK players expect from Relax Gaming in the coming months?

UK players can look forward to a diverse range of new releases, each bringing fresh themes and innovative mechanics. We’re also focusing on incorporating player feedback to refine our games, ensuring they deliver exceptional entertainment value. Additionally, expect exciting promotions and collaborations that will further elevate the gaming experience with Relax Gaming.

This is the latest instalment in the Comparasino explainer series, which takes a closer look at some of the most popular bonus features in online slots. 

Other explainers include: 

Wild symbols in online slots explained 

Scatter symbols in online slots explained