What Are Cluster Pays and How to Play Them?

Article by : Divya Gandotra Feb 3, 2025

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Updated: Apr 13, 2025

Sometimes, classic slots with regular pay lines can get boring. If that sounds like you, you’re in the right place — because today we’re talking about cluster pay slots. Unlike traditional slots, where wins happen on fixed lines, cluster slots flip the rules. Here, you win when matching symbols land next to each other in groups. That’s right — just a bunch of strawberries, stars, or something side by side can bring you a win.

This payout format quickly became a hit in modern slot games, adding more action and fun to the gameplay. In this article, you’ll learn what cluster pays are, how they work, their pros and cons, and get tips for playing them smartly.

What Are Cluster Pays?

Cluster pays is a slot mechanic that skips traditional pay lines and uses a more flexible system. Instead of lining up symbols from left to right (or right to left in some games), you win when a cluster of matching symbols touches side-by-side, either horizontally or vertically.

The easiest way to imagine it is like Tetris — when blocks fit perfectly together, you win. That’s the idea here.

The first cluster slot was Aloha! Cluster Pays by NetEnt in 2016. Since then, big providers like Pragmatic Play and Big Time Gaming have also joined in. Most cluster slots need at least 5 matching symbols to make a win, but some need 9 or more.

These games feel dynamic and intense. When I first tried one, without reading the rules (don’t do that) — I was shocked to win just because the symbols were next to each other. Since then, I’ve been a fan of the cluster system.

How Do Cluster Pays Slots Work?

Once you understand the basic idea, these games are simple to play (but even without it — they’re just fun). Cluster pay slots usually have bigger grids like 6×6, 7×7, or even 8×8 instead of the classic 5×3 layout. Your goal is to land a group of matching symbols that touch each other from the sides or top-to-bottom. The number needed for a win depends on the game, so always check the paytable.

What makes these slots notable are the extra features:

• Cascading reels — winning symbols disappear, and new ones drop in. This can cause more wins from a single spin.
• Multipliers — they often increase with every cascade, giving bigger payouts.
• Sticky symbols — some winning symbols stay in place for the next spin (like in Jammin’ Jars by Push Gaming).

Cluster slots almost always include these features because they work so well together.

Pros and Cons of Cluster Pays

Pros:

• More chances to win — clusters can form anywhere, no lines needed.
• Cascades can create multiple wins from one spin.
• Bright, fun visuals — with bursting symbols and fast gameplay. If you’ve never tried it before, you’ll notice the difference right away.

Cons:

• More challenging to spot wins — clusters aren’t as obvious as pay lines.
• Payouts for clusters can be lower compared to classic slots with high volatility (since wins are easier to get).
• Less predictable — it’s harder to guess when a win might happen.

Still, many players — including me — think the fun and energy of these games are totally worth it.

How to Play Cluster Pays Slots Effectively

There’s no magic formula to win, but the little things matter. Here are some tips to play more imaginatively:

• Pick the right game — look for cluster pays slots with an RTP of 96% or more.
• Check volatility — low means more frequent but smaller wins, high means bigger wins but less often.
• Read the paytable — learn how many symbols you need to win and which pay the most.
• Manage your bankroll — set a budget and stick to it. Cascades can give many wins from one spin, but don’t bet too much too fast. Start small.
• Use bonus features — free spins, multipliers, sticky symbols — all of them help increase your chances. You’ll use them either way, but if there’s a bonus buy feature, it might be worth it. Not sure? Watch a review of the game first, or check out how to win slot machine for extra slot-playing advice.

Conclusion

Cluster Pays are like the Upside Down world of slots — just like in Stranger Things. They replace traditional lines with flexible clusters that can appear anywhere on the grid. Thanks to cascades and bonuses, these games offer more action, fun visuals, and fresh ways to win.

Whether you’re new to slots or already a fan, cluster games can bring you something new and stimulating. After all, we play for the thrill, and these slots deliver.