Different Types of Buffalo Slot Machines
How many different Buffalo slot machines are there? There are quite many, but these are the most common ones I come across:
Classic Buffalo Slots
These are the original-style games with simple graphics and basic sound effects. In classic Buffalo slot games, the gameplay is straightforward since they have 5 reels at most with minimal bonus features. However, you can still find special features like Wilds, Scatters, and Free Spins.
Buffalo Megaways
Here are my favourite types of Buffalo and Bison slots. They use the popular Megaways engine, which allows for thousands of ways to win on every spin, up to 117,649 and even higher. The reels shift in size as you spin, so the experience is quite dynamic. In most Buffalo Megaways slots I play, I usually get cascading wins and multipliers.
Buffalo Progressive Slots
Some Canadian casino sites have progressive jackpot slots with the Buffalo theme. As you’d expect, these games include a prize pool that grows over time as more players spin the reels. If you’re lucky enough to hit the required symbol, you can walk away with the entire jackpot.
Buffalo Hold and Win
In Hold and Win Buffalo slot machine games, you can trigger a respin feature by hitting specific symbols on the reels. Then, the rest of the reels lock in place while you spin. If you keep collecting the bonus symbols, the feature continues and can lead to notable wins.
Buffalo Slot Machine RTP Explained
Before playing any Buffalo slot machine game, I always check the Return to Player (RTP). It helps me know what to expect from spinning over a long period. Check out my findings regarding the RTP below:
Average RTP of Buffalo slots
Most Buffalo-themed slots I’ve played have an RTP ranging between 94% and 98%. Hence, the average varies widely, which is what you’d expect when there are so many titles.
Classic versions, like the original Buffalo by Aristocrat, have a lower rate of less than 95%. One reason is that they’re mainly featured as land-based machines on gambling floors. On the other hand, newer Buffalo pokies feature close to 96% RTP or higher. That way, they stay competitive with modern online slot standards.
How RTP affects your odds
The Return to Player is an essential metric that tells you how much a slot game is programmed to pay back over time. I’ll give an example using Buffalo King Megaways by Pragmatic Play. This slot has a 96.52% Buffalo RTP, meaning that on average, it will return C$96.52 for every C$100 wagered. The remaining 3.48% is the house edge.
Understand that the RTP only affects your odds in the long term. It has no business with short-term results. You can win big or lose fast in just a few spins, as volatility plays a stronger role here.
High-volatility games can go through many rounds with no win, but offer bigger payouts when they hit. Meanwhile, lower-volatility games pay smaller amounts more often. However, after thousands of spins, higher RTP generally gives you slightly better odds.
Buffalo Slot Machine Bonuses & Features
When playing casino games Buffalo slots, look forward to these bonuses and features:
Free Spins
This is the most common bonus feature in Buffalo casino slot games. You usually trigger it by landing three or more scatter symbols. During free spins, wild multipliers often appear, increasing your payouts by 2x or 3x.
Wild Symbols and Multipliers
The wild symbol substitutes for icons to help form winning combinations. In my experience, some Buffalo slots with wilds also come with multipliers. This means wins that include the special symbols are multiplied.
Hold and Win Bonus
As hinted earlier, landing a certain number of special bonus symbols activates a hold-and-spin feature. The triggering symbols lock in place, and you get a set number of respins to land more.
Megaways & Cascading Reels
The best Buffalo slot machines with Megaways offer dynamic reels that change after each spin. This feature often comes hand-in-hand with cascading wins, where winning symbols disappear and new ones drop to take their place. It can lead to chain reactions and multiple payouts in a single spin.
Main Game Providers
| Provider |
Headquarters |
Notable Games |
Specialty |
| Aristocrat |
Sydney, Australia |
Buffalo, Queen of the Nile, 50 Lions |
Innovative slot machines and gaming technology |
| NetEnt |
Stockholm, Sweden |
Starburst, Gonzo’s Quest, Mega Fortune |
High-quality graphics and unique themes |
| Microgaming |
Isle of Man, UK |
Mega Moolah, Immortal Romance, Thunderstruck II |
Large progressive jackpots and extensive game library |
| Playtech |
London, UK |
Age of the Gods, Jackpot Giant, The Matrix |
Multichannel gaming solutions and branded slots |
| IGT |
London, UK |
Wheel of Fortune, Cleopatra, Siberian Storm |
Wide range of both physical and online slot machines |
| Novomatic |
Gumpoldskirchen, Austria |
Book of Ra, Lucky Lady’s Charm, Sizzling Hot |
Popular in European land-based casinos |
Here’s a table listing some of the main game providers in the casino industry, including Aristocrat, the provider of Buffalo slot, to give an idea of the variety and scope of different providers.
Bison Slots: Are They the Same as Buffalo?
Yes, in most cases, Buffalo and Bison slot machines refer to the same game theme. Buffalo is the more commonly used term in casino titles, but the animal featured is often the American Bison.
The two terms are used interchangeably in the casino space, even though they refer to slightly different animals in reality. Therefore, if you come across Bison slot games at Canadian casinos while searching for Buffalo, you can still spin.
Tips for Playing Buffalo Casino Slots
The different Buffalo slot machines all use random number generators, so outcomes are based on chance. That said, I suggest applying these tips to get the most out of your gameplay:
Check the RTP and Volatility
Before you spin, look at the game’s RTP and volatility. A higher RTP gives you slightly better long-term odds, while medium or low volatility means more frequent, smaller wins.
Use Bonuses and Free Spins
Many online casinos offer welcome bonuses or free spins on Buffalo slots. Take advantage of these offers to play more without risking too much of your own money.
Manage your Bankroll
Have a budget before you play any Buffalo gambling machine, and follow it. Also, go with a bet size that allows you to play comfortably while enjoying the gameplay.
Understand the Features
Take a few minutes to understand how the bonus rounds work. This is crucial when playing a Buffalo game at casino sites in Canada with Hold and Win, free spins, and multipliers. Knowing what triggers them and how they pay out can help you manage your expectations.
Play for Fun First
If you’re new to a Buffalo slot, try the demo version first. It’s a great way to learn how they work. Once you’re comfortable, you can switch to real-play mode with more confidence.
Responsible Gaming
Spinning Buffalo slots online is fun, but it’s important to play responsibly. Set a budget, stick to time limits, and don’t chase losses. Remember, these games are based on luck with random outcomes. So, don’t see them as a way to make money. Take breaks, and request help if you ever feel that gambling is becoming a problem.
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