With another year drawing to a close, we're reflecting on the highlights. We've scrutinized the 2017 slot releases to pick out the top five that stood above the rest.
In 2017, more than 800 new games hit the market. Although only a select few have made a significant impact, distinguishing them wasn't easy. Some creators stick to tried and true methods, while others dare to innovate. Yet, novelty doesn't always equal quality, and sometimes there's wisdom in not altering what already works.
Let's be candid about our choices. You'll notice that names like Novomatic and Merkur aren't included here, and there's a reason for that. It's not a critique of their quality; we adore their work! However, once you've experienced one Novomatic game, many of them start to feel quite similar.
For this ranking, we've emphasized innovation and freshness in slot design. Games offering something new and exciting were our focus. While tradition has its own value, which Merkur and Novomatic exemplify, it wasn't the aim of this list. Crafting a list of the greatest slots of all time would be a different endeavor altogether.
We acknowledge that not everyone will agree with our choices, as slot preferences are deeply personal. This list is crafted not just from our own biases, but also from what resonated within the casino streaming community, popular discussions in online forums, and direct feedback from players.
On that note, let's explore Bigwinboard's selection of the top 5 favorite games of 2017, starting from the last and moving to the first.
Position 5: WHITE RABBIT (BIG TIME GAMING)
We had the privilege to test this slot well before its official launch, giving us and many others a head start. Big Time Gaming releases always cause a stir among fans, and they are known for their high-risk, high-reward gameplay that stands out in the industry.
BTG seems to excel with their existing model, yet they resist complacency by continually presenting new ideas rather than rehashing their old ones. Although White Rabbit is starting off at the bottom of our top five, it has generated extraordinary hype, especially among streaming communities.
We do have some reservations about the inclusion of a buy-in feature in this game, as it might significantly impact players struggling with gambling issues. It's a double-edged sword: while it adds an intense, almost dangerous excitement, it reflects the essence of gambling itself.
4th Place: REACTOONZ (PLAY’N GO)
Reactoonz hasn't been on the market for long, but its rise in popularity is indisputable. Despite our previous critiques of Play'n Go, the company continues to thrive with engaged audiences, and it remains one of our preferred game providers.
Games like Reactoonz might baffle some with their chaotic, action-packed adventure, yet they have gained a passionate following. It ranked fourth on our list for blending dynamic graphics with gameplay that's both innovative and fun.
3rd Place: MOON PRINCESS (PLAY’N GO)
Play’n Go has been quite prolific this year with several remarkable games, including Moon Princess, which secured a top-three spot. Its success is evident from enthusiasm among both streamers and their audiences, as well as on internet communities.
The game beautifully incorporates a manga aesthetic paired with unique mechanics. Although its gameplay might occasionally be perplexing, Moon Princess is undoubtedly an enjoyable experience with vast win potential. Like many in our top five, it polarizes opinions—people tend to either love or hate it, a common trait among widely successful games.
Position 2: DANGER HIGH VOLTAGE (BIG TIME GAMING)
Launched early in 2017, DHV immediately garnered attention as the successor to the acclaimed Bonanza. Initially met with skepticism due to its departure from previous success, it gradually won over a loyal following.
DHV wasn't an instant classic, but its allure grew with time, securing its place in the annals of slot history. This game's allure stems not merely from its potential payouts but from its captivating chase and persistent allure.
Despite some annoyances with the Gates of Hell feature during bonus play, these quirks are forgiven when one experiences the exhilarating high multipliers possible in the High Voltage bonus.
This innovative, unique game richly deserves its high ranking, enticing players with both its fresh approach and impressive jackpot opportunities.
Jungle Spirit earned the top spot because it embodies everything a great slot should offer: engaging visuals, intriguing features, huge win potential, and wide availability thanks to NetEnt. Even as initial excitement fades, it remains a standout release.
1st Place: JUNGLE SPIRIT (NETENT)
Wins like the 5200x multiplier we witnessed recently are the kind of jaw-dropping moments that keep players coming back for more. Jungle Spirit delivers a thrilling experience with unexpected rewards.
While DHV might be the favourite among 'slot enthusiasts,' Jungle Spirit holds widespread appeal among casual gamers. Bigwinboard takes pride in acknowledging the brilliant achievements of all the developers listed, especially commending NetEnt for their exemplary contribution in 2017.
Some other notable nominations from us include the following, arranged without a specific order:
spin-samurai-app.com serves independently as a portal for igaming updates and casino comparisons. Every attempt is made to maintain accuracy in bonus listings, but we cannot be held accountable for every detail. Players must personally verify the terms of any offers before proceeding and independently assess the legality and credibility of any online gambling venue they may consider.
- Life of Riches (Microslots)
- Scruffy Duck (NetEnt)
- Ted (Blueprint)
- Sakura (Quickspin)
- Hong Kong Tower (ELK)
- Viking Runecraft (PnG)
- Flame Busters (Thunderkick)
- Ivanhoe (ELK)
- Joker Pro (NetEnt)
- Jurassic World (Microgaming)
- Six Acrobats (Microgaming)
- Sticky Bandits (Quickspin)
- Jungle Books (Yggdrasil)
- Pink Elephant (Thunderkick)
