Comic Heroes
Who’s your favourite comic hero – Spiderman? Wolverine? Antman? Batman? Be it from the realms of Marvel or from other comic book imprints, there are scores of slots available on the web that cater to the demand for superheroes. In recent years, there has been a flurry of movie remakes and reboots starring comic book heroes ranging from Captain America to The Hulk.
It was inevitable that slots developers would follow suit, either releasing their own versions inspired by these movies or releasing branded games that are licensed by Marvel, DC Comics and the like. Every now and again, online slots developers simply discover something that just works and one of the slots genres that definitely falls into this category is comic heroes.
Heroes on Hand
While many comic heroes have received something of a renaissance in recent years owing to big-budget movies and television series, they have become equally popular on the reels. Undoubtedly, a highlight of these comic themed slots has to be Playtech’s Marvel range of online slots. Each focuses primarily on one of the most prominent heroes or teams in the Marvel Universe and pulls together gameplay mechanics that are standardised across the range, together with some unique features that really bring the titles to life. Virtually every aspect of slots gaming is represented throughout the range. Fans of multiple win lines can expect at least 20 ways to win and often several times more, while those who enjoy free spins will find plenty to take their fancy.
Prepare to Marvel
In the Marvel series of slots that Playtech have brought to life, themed features make regular appearances in addition to free spins. In fact, it’s not uncommon for these games to have as many as half a dozen different features based around the protagonist’s special powers, and occasionally involving his or her dastardly nemesis. Players will also get to have a shot at the Marvel Power jackpots where there’s some major money to be won. That’s not to say that other developers have been left behind incidentally – not by a long stretch. Indeed, Microgaming was creating comic themed slots before Playtech had even acquired the Marvel licence, and some of their offerings have stood the test of time, going on to become classics in their own right.
In true Microgaming fashion, these online slots do not make up part of a series. Instead, they are each standalone games that incorporate classic Microgaming gameplay but with their own individual twist. The beauty of playing games inspired by comic book heroes is that you don’t even need to get specific and seek out a slot based around one singular character; some developers let you experience a broad range of heroes, as Yggdrasil have with their Super Heroes slot. It’s a 20-payline effort with medium variance and a respectable RTP of 96%. There’s plenty more where that came from, for here at Mr Gamez we’re fortunate to be able to offer up a banquet of comic themed slots including such classics as Iron Man, Hitman, Hellboy, Power Force Villains, Green Lantern and Hulkamania.
Take a Trip to DC
The creators of the famous Marvel games have also developed a spectacular selection of superhero slots inspired by the daredevils from the DC Comics brand. This deal between Warner Bros and Playtech was one of the most exciting partnerships of 2017. Playtech is renowned for its branded games, making them the stand-out choice for this agreement after Microgaming lost their license a few years back. The alliance produced several smashing titles such as Batman v Superman Dawn of Justice, Suicide Squad, The Dark Knight Trilogy, Justice League and Green Lantern.
The first release of DC superhero slots which gained enormous success and approval from the public was a series of games following the adventures of the classic 60s caped crimefighter of Gotham City. The series comprised of six thrilling titles including Batman and the Joker Jewels, Batman and the Penguin Prize, Batman and Riddler Riches, Batman and Catwoman Cash, Batman and the Batgirl Bonanza and Batman and Mr. Freeze Fortune.
But Playtech wasn’t the only provider to make a deal with Warner Bros. Industry giant Cryptologic was actually the first software supplier to obtain a license from DC in 2009. They developed a range of state-of-the-art games such as The Incredible Hulk Ultimate Revenge slot, Batman, Superman, Green Lantern, The Flash and Wonder Woman. All their games have rich graphics and plenty of lucrative bonus features.
Time for a Hero
One of the best things about the comic hero genre of slots is the diversity that’s on display. While the concept behind these games is broadly the same – a righteous protagonist who must rid the world of the forces of evil – the delivery of these games varies greatly. Put simply, you can have your comic themed slots served any which way you like. Whereas genres such as Ancient Egypt are far more generic, there’s more creativity on display when it comes to comic heroes. As a case in point, check out Ash Gaming’s delightfully retro series of Batman slots inspired by the 1960s TV series starring Adam West. These include Batman & The Joker Jewels and are delightfully camp and filled with nostalgia.
Although the fantasy world of superhero-themed slots is male-dominated, there are a few female protagonists who also feature, the most obvious being Wonder Woman. Amaya has released a 50-payline slot based on the antics of the heroine, and in addition to Wonder Woman, there’s an opportunity to play Wonder Woman Gold by Bally. It would be fair to say that the main reason why this genre of slots enthrals so many players is the escapism that’s offered. With these games, it’s easy to leave your troubles behind and to plunge into a fantasy world where anything is possible and nothing is as it seems. While detractors would argue that comic book heroes are contributing to the infantilising of society, fans of the genre would demur. This is simply escapist entertainment that’s harmless and far more compelling than many of the other subgenres of slots available at online casinos.
Super Spins for Superheroes
For players who’ve yet to dabble in the many comic themed slots available on the web, the Marvel games are the best place to start. Sure, they’re predictable and there’s a case for arguing that it’s possible to have too much of a good thing – The Avengers and their ilk are everywhere right now – but the quality of the games can’t be disputed. From graphics to audio and from animations to features, the Marvel slots are some of the best on the web, and that’s not just limited to the superhero genre – that applies to all genres.
The Transformers slots are also worth a look, again characterised by stunning graphics that are more akin to playing a video game than a video slot. Whatever title you choose to amuse yourself with, you can play for fun at Mr Gamez before stepping up and choosing to play for real money.