What is the Cascade Feature?
The Cascade Feature is a gaming function in online slots where consecutive winning lines are formed by removing previously paid out winning symbols and compressing the game board with the remaining ones. Such a cascade doesn't necessarily have to generate 2 or more wins. Rather, the functionality primarily refers to the chain of actions involved.
- Profit
- Removing the profitable symbols from view
- Filling in remaining and new symbols
Information about the Cascade Feature
This is how cascades work
The Cascade Feature kicks in every time there is a win. After determining the value of the win, all symbols involved in one or more winning lines are removed. Then, the game grid comes together, with the vacant positions being filled by symbols from above. If there are any gaps at the top, new symbols slide in. This can potentially create additional winning symbol combinations. In this manner, an unlimited number of cascade wins can occur.
Small input, big impact.
The Cascade feature itself is definitely a unique aspect. The trick is that even with longer cascades of wins, you only have to place a single bet. This means that while playing a slot game online with the Cascade feature, you can potentially achieve high payouts with relatively low bets. Although this game function doesn't guarantee a win, it does provide great opportunities.
Extras through cascades
Cascading wins offer so much more than just cash prizes, although that's definitely the most noticeable benefit for us players during gameplay. In fact, there are numerous online slots that incorporate bonus features tied to the cascade feature. For example, a certain number of consecutive cascades can lead to free spins (like in Merkur's Ghost Slider) or increasing multipliers (like in NetEnt's Gonzo's Quest). Some slots even utilize the cascade feature explicitly as an extra in a bonus round.
Various names of the function
Not every provider refers to the Cascade Feature as such. However, the various names for this function correspond to the same principle. For instance, in Microgaming slots, this feature is called Rolling Reels, which is a slightly misleading name when translated. NetEnt came up with the fitting designation Avalanches, referring to the cascading effect. Even the Irish provider Merkur offers some slots with the Cascade Feature, which they call Slide and often includes in the slot's name.