The difference between skill-based and arcade style
1) The key difference in the essence of the game
Skill-based slots are gambling games in which the outcome is partially determined by the player's skill, but remains dependent on the random number generator (RNG). The goal is to win real money, with the skill element affecting bonus rounds, multipliers, or game length.
Arcade games - based entirely on the skill and reaction of the player, the result depends only on skills, and not on chance. There is no financial gain, most often the reward is in-game points, progress or cosmetic improvements.
2) Mechanics and control
Skill-based slots:
Skill-based slots are gambling games in which the outcome is partially determined by the player's skill, but remains dependent on the random number generator (RNG). The goal is to win real money, with the skill element affecting bonus rounds, multipliers, or game length.
Arcade games - based entirely on the skill and reaction of the player, the result depends only on skills, and not on chance. There is no financial gain, most often the reward is in-game points, progress or cosmetic improvements.
2) Mechanics and control
Skill-based slots:
- The main game is spinning drums with RNG.
- Minigames or bonus stages require reaction, accuracy or logic.
- The controls are adapted to the touch screen or buttons. Arcade games:
- Continuous gameplay, without random generation of the result.
- The dynamics depend only on the player's actions.
- A complex control scheme with many commands is possible.
3) Balancing skill and randomness
Skill-based: approximately 60-90% of the outcome is determined by chance, the rest is determined by the quality of performing mini-games or special tasks.
Arcade: 100% of the result depends on the skill of the player.
4) Target audience
Skill-based: players who need excitement and the ability to win, but at the same time interesting gameplay that requires participation and concentration.
Arcade: gamers focused on process, improving skills and completing levels, without financial motivation.
5) Monetization
Skill-based: income is generated through player bets; RTP is regulated by law.
Arcade: monetization goes through the sale of applications, in-game purchases, advertising.
6) Example of formats
Skill-based: slots with reaction minigames, puzzles or PvP elements.
Arcade: platformers, races, shooters, logic games without cash winnings.
7) The bottom line
The difference between skill-based slots and arcade games is that the former combine the gambling element with skill mechanics, while the latter are purely entertaining and depend only on the player's skill. For a skill-based casino, the format is a way to attract a gaming audience, and for players it is a chance to combine excitement and the usual interactive gameplay.
