How popular are sporting themes in online slot games?

Sports is a powerful topic that can unite communities and break them apart. The influence sports have over people is one of the most potent relationships on earth, with sports having the power to create communities, bring groups of people together, provide entertainment, and provide opportunities in life, too. On the other hand, it also has the power to sometimes cause rifts and tense scenes as people feel so passionate about it.

One of the industries sports have significantly affected is the online gaming industry, in which online slots esports and other sports-themed video games have played a considerable role in growing the popularity of such games. These games have a symbiotic relationship in which both the sporting and gaming industries mutually benefit from such partnerships, creating opportunities for business growth, reputation enhancement, and brand awareness.

Below, we'll take a closer look at the relationship between the sports industry and online slot games specifically and identify why they make such a good pairing. We'll also take a look at some of the best-themed slots for you to check out.

 

What are the benefits of the sports and online slots pairing

The sports industry has paired up with many industries over the years through sponsorship deals, from Olympic athletes appearing in cereal commercials to footballers wearing t-shirts with a bank logo on. However, in recent years, the sports industry has moved ever closer to the world of online gaming and has had a profound effect on the online slot industry.

Let's take a look at some of the benefits of the sports industry and online slot pairing below.

Expanded audience - Not everyone is into playing online slots. However, when sports are involved, it becomes a different ball game. People who were never interested in such games are now open to playing as it allows them to get up close and personal with their favourite sports teams and players and may even put them in the driving seat.

Likewise, sports teams can expand their following worldwide by teaming up with popular online slot games, introducing new people to their team and possibly gaining new supporters in the process.

Enhanced gameplay - Traditional slot games traditionally consisted of fruit and money symbols. If you spin the reel, you might win, but you might not. It was simple yet effective. However, today's 21st-century audience requires something a little more engaging and captivating. Sports-themed slots help draw people into the games and keep them interested for a longer period. They also establish an emotional connection with the player, which keeps them hooked.

A chance for fans to get closer to their favourite teams  - Being a sports fan can be an expensive hobby. Not only do fans need to save up money for away game trips, but there is also the home game ticket costs, merch costs and often annual membership fees too. Many fans cannot afford to keep up and miss out on opportunities to get closer to their favourite team. Sports-themed online slots allow fans to get involved with their favourite teams virtually, even in a fantasy setting. There's always the chance of winning big and using the winnings to pay for an away game trip of a lifetime, too.

 

The best sports-themed slots

Below are some of the best handpicked sports-themed slots for you to try out this Spring.

 

 

Hockey Hero

Hockey Hero is a hockey-themed game that will put you on the edge of your seat as you can play an online hockey game for real money. The game has 5 reels, 4 rows and 30 paylines, and the RTP is 96.53%. Even a golden trophy symbol can be unlocked, and the hockey goal is the key to unlocking the free spins feature.

 

 

Wildhound Derby

This game features some of the very best of the latest slot game graphics technology as it encompasses all the fun of greyhound racing events. For those missing getting to the stadium and putting their bets on their favourite hound, this game might be just the fix that's needed.

 

 

BenchWarmers Football Girls

Leading casino software developer developed this game, PlayTech and has a standard slot game lineup that consists of 5 reels, 3 rows and 30 paylines. A pick-and-win feature enables you to find a cash prize hidden behind some of the balls, making for an exciting game.

 

Overall, sports-themed slots are a real hit in the online casino world and have helped significantly when it comes to expanding the industry, widening the target audience range, and increasing revenue for online slot games. As for the players, there's the chance to get up close and personal with your favourite sports and be in with a chance of winning real cash prizes. What's not to like?