The 4 Most Popular Slot Franchises in 2023

The online slot scene is as vibrant as it’s ever been. With more independent iGaming studios designing and conceiving new slot concepts, the competition for real estate in online casino game libraries is truly fierce.

Nevertheless, there are some slot franchises that comfortably stand the test of time. Below, we celebrate four of the most successful slot series since the iGaming boom.

Gonzo’s Quest

NetEnt established itself as one of the leading online slot developers thanks to the success of its Gonzo’s Quest slot series. It’s no secret that Gonzo’s Quest was the first platinum slot title for the studio. These Mayan-themed games transport you into the thick of the jungle in the “Search for Eldorado”.

El Dorado is one of the most fascinating cities in history due to its association with gold. The Gonzo’s Quest slots were some of the first to feature the avalanche reels mechanic, allowing players to land multiple symbol combinations from a single spin.

Whether it’s the original, the Megaways version, or even the Inca temple-inspired Gonzo’s Gold, this curious conquistador is one of the most enjoyable slot protagonists in the iGaming scene right now.

Rich Wilde

Rich Wilde is the brainchild of Play’n GO, who has become one of the most recognizable slot protagonists in the iGaming scene. Designed to replicate the Hollywood adventurer, Indiana Jones, Rich Wilde embarks on a string of daring discoveries in ancient history. Whether it’s the original game exploring Aztec Idols, the Pearls of India, or Ancient Egypt, there are many themes and civilizations to immerse yourself in.

By far, the Rich Wilde and the Book of Dead slot is easily one of the biggest commercial successes within the sprawling franchise. Many operators, including the likes of Casimbo Casino, for example, offer ludicrously attractive promotions for the Rich Wilde and the Book of Dead slot as part of their casino welcome bonus UK. Typically, these money-saving feats are used to incentivize first-time users to sign up and play. Essentially, free spins on the Book of Dead allow players to get to grips with the Rich Wilde series and its unique bonus features in a relatively risk-free environment.

The Rich Wilde and the Book of Dead slot game continues to gain high rankings from players, which usually results in it appearing within the 'Most Popular' sections of slot game libraries. We don't see this one going anywhere, anytime soon...

Thunderstruck

There are few more popular online slot themes in 2023 than Norse mythology, but Microgaming was certainly ahead of the curve when they launched Thunderstruck way back in 2003. The original Thunderstruck slot had just nine paylines but its wild symbols and free spins features captured the imagination. So much so that Microgaming published a sequel in 2010 with a quartet of free spin rounds to select from.

In 2021, Microgaming joined forces with Stormcraft Studios to reboot the franchise again with Thunderstruck: Wild Lightning still heavily inspired by the almighty Thor famed for his strength. All three Thunderstruck slots are still revered by long-standing slot players today for their immersive and playability.

Fishin’ Frenzy

Set sail for the seven seas in Blueprint Gaming’s Fishin’ Frenzy slot series. One of the main reasons that Fishin’ Frenzy has become such an enduring slot series is its unparalleled simplicity. It’s true Fishin’ Frenzy slots don’t have the most advanced bonus features, but there is something refreshing about knowing where you stand when the reels spin.

Fishin’ Frenzy was taken to a whole new level in 2019, five years after the release of the original, when Blueprint unleashed a Megaways version. With tens of thousands of ways to win, it catapulted Fishin’ Frenzy into a new stratosphere, attracting high-roller and low-roller players alike.

Thanks to the pioneering influence of these iGaming studios, it’s clear to see that this quartet of slot franchises is sure to remain at the forefront of video slot libraries for many years to come.