Games with plot and progression: next generation arcade slots
1) Introduction
New generation arcade slots are increasingly moving away from the classic random rotation model, integrating the plot and progression system into the gameplay. Such games are not limited to brief rounds, but offer players a long-term goal, character development, and story reveal as they progress. This changes the perception of gambling, making it closer to video games with RPG and adventure elements, but while maintaining a monetary incentive.
2) Key features of the story arcade slots
a) Developed plot
The plot is presented through introductory videos, character dialogues and intermediate cut scenes.
The story is divided into chapters or missions that the player goes through during a series of game sessions.
Example: a slot where the player is a treasure hunter, and each bonus game opens a new location.
b) Progression system
The player earns experience points (XP) for betting, bonuses, and completing in-game tasks.
New levels, skills or access to unique mini-games are opening up.
Progress is maintained between sessions, spurring a comeback.
c) Elements of gamification
Missions, achievements, trophies and daily tasks.
League tables to compare progress with other players.
Ability to customize characters or interface.
3) Differences from classic automata
4) Examples of story arcade slot mechanics
Step-by-step content discovery: new bonus games or symbols appear only after completing certain missions.
Interactive battles: In some slots, the player fights virtual opponents, and the result depends on reaction and accuracy.
Multiple endings: The ending of the story can change depending on the player's decisions during the gameplay.
World Map: Progress through the game space with locations and additional features revealed.
5) Impact on retention and monetization
Long involvement: The player returns to continue the story.
Increasing the average session time: each stage takes longer to complete.
Additional costs: buying progress accelerators, unique items or access to premium chapters.
6) Development prospects
In the future, story arcade slots will integrate even more elements from the video game world: branching dialogs, complex quests, multiplayer missions. Increased integration with VR/AR is also expected, where players can physically navigate game locations and influence the course of the plot.
New generation arcade slots are increasingly moving away from the classic random rotation model, integrating the plot and progression system into the gameplay. Such games are not limited to brief rounds, but offer players a long-term goal, character development, and story reveal as they progress. This changes the perception of gambling, making it closer to video games with RPG and adventure elements, but while maintaining a monetary incentive.
2) Key features of the story arcade slots
a) Developed plot
The plot is presented through introductory videos, character dialogues and intermediate cut scenes.
The story is divided into chapters or missions that the player goes through during a series of game sessions.
Example: a slot where the player is a treasure hunter, and each bonus game opens a new location.
b) Progression system
The player earns experience points (XP) for betting, bonuses, and completing in-game tasks.
New levels, skills or access to unique mini-games are opening up.
Progress is maintained between sessions, spurring a comeback.
c) Elements of gamification
Missions, achievements, trophies and daily tasks.
League tables to compare progress with other players.
Ability to customize characters or interface.
3) Differences from classic automata
| Parameter | Classic Slot | Story Arcade Slot |
|---|---|---|
| Interaction | Spins of the same type | Multi-level gameplay with tasks |
| Saving progress | No | Yes, with long-term goals |
| Engagement | Medium | High, through narrative |
| Skill component | Minimal | Noticeable, through mini-games and selection of actions |
4) Examples of story arcade slot mechanics
Step-by-step content discovery: new bonus games or symbols appear only after completing certain missions.
Interactive battles: In some slots, the player fights virtual opponents, and the result depends on reaction and accuracy.
Multiple endings: The ending of the story can change depending on the player's decisions during the gameplay.
World Map: Progress through the game space with locations and additional features revealed.
5) Impact on retention and monetization
Long involvement: The player returns to continue the story.
Increasing the average session time: each stage takes longer to complete.
Additional costs: buying progress accelerators, unique items or access to premium chapters.
6) Development prospects
In the future, story arcade slots will integrate even more elements from the video game world: branching dialogs, complex quests, multiplayer missions. Increased integration with VR/AR is also expected, where players can physically navigate game locations and influence the course of the plot.
