Part of the new generation of online gambling games, Plinko proved an instant success as soon as the first game of its type hit casino sites back in 2019. This makes sense, considering it has all the elements that make for a hit title - a balance between skill and randomness, exciting action, and the chance for solid wins. But did you know Plinko’s origins go way beyond the online sphere? You might know that Plinko actually comes from a US quiz show, but one can point out its long history, one that spans continents and even game types. And what about the different types of Plinko? So join us as we take you on a trip through one of our absolute favourites, Plinko!
The Origins of Plinko
Before we take on our favourite at all the best Plinko gambling sites, we think it’d be interesting to take a look at the history of the game. You see, Plinko actually shares an origin with that other arcade classic, Pinball. Back in the 1700s, Europe was introduced to “Billiard Japonaise,” a game that’s surprisingly much like Plinko. It consisted of a slightly inclined table with multiple rows of pins. Players launched a ball using a spring from the bottom of the table, then saw it bounce between the pins in the hopes of landing in a prize slot, Plinko–style.
Billiard Japonaise had nothing to do with Japan, as it was actually a European invention. But fast forward to the 1920s, where it inspired another game, the “Corinth Game.” This is a very similar game that has players launch a ball on a board covered with pins with the aim of landing it in a prize slot. The Corinth Game made it to Japan, where it was first known as the “Korinto Gemu” before it was renamed to “Pachinko.” Pachinko is massive in the Land of the Rising Sun, and is very similar to our Plinko.
We now move to 1983, where the producers of “The Price is Right” introduced a new game to their quiz show. Created by executive producer Frank Wayne, it featured a large rectangular board covered with rows of pegs and slots in the top where players drop a disc. The disc makes its way down, bouncing on the pegs, until it reaches the bottom where a number of prize baskets await. The biggest prize, worth $25,000, lies in the centre, while the baskets at the edges hold no prizes. Plinko was an instant hit on the show, so much so that in 2013, on the 30th anniversary of the game, The Prize is Right dedicated an entire episode to just Plinko!
Plinko Hits the Arcade
Plinko Hits the Arcade
The popularity of Plinko meant it quickly saw the game, both in official and imitator form, hit the arcades. The aim of the game remains the same, namely that of trying to drop the disc or ball in the prize slots in the bottom, and the experience is further enhanced through the addition of flashing lights, loud sound effects, and bold themes. Typically players need to first get tickets before they get a chance to drop the puck, with the lights and sounds making its journey down the peg board even more exciting. At the end? Then there’s a chance of getting a prize!
Arcade-style Plinko is, as one might expect, aimed at families and casual players as opposed to gamblers. The game is perfectly suited for this style of play, since it’s easy to grasp and well adapted for lighthearted themes. This way players can easily try their luck, and this being an arcade game the prizes typically consist of points or tickets one can later exchange for prizes, rather than cash. The result is a game that’s designed for a purely fun experience.
Online Casinos Meet Plinko
As popular as Plinko was on both TV and the arcades, it took a long while for the game to hit online casinos. This is perhaps surprising, considering how well Plinko is suited for online gaming. In fact the first online Plinko game hit sites in 2019 and came courtesy of BGaming. Simply titled Plinko, this is a straightforward experience with a simple monochrome graphic design, wins that can reach up to 1,000x the stake and a choice of 3 volatility levels - and it was the blueprint for all other online casino Plinko games to come.
The choice of volatility is one of the main features that distinguishes online casino Plinko from its arcade equivalent. You see, casino Plinko actually allows you to set the size of the peg board, increasing or decreasing the risk of playing. Want a safe and relaxing time? Then go for a smaller 8-row board, which increases your chances of winning a small prize when playing. You’d rather go high risk? Then play on the largest 16-row board, which boosts the size of the available prizes as well as your chances of winning nothing after you place your stake in the game.
BGaming’s take on Plinko was a hit, which quickly led to other providers developing their own version of this pegboard classic. Among these you’ll find Aviator creator Spribe, who launched its clean version of Plinko in 2021, as well as casual game master Hacksaw Gaming and its 2023 Plinko. These versions feature different payout levels but all have adjustable volatility, leading to RTPs that can range from as low as 94% to as high as 99%, depending on the game and its board settings.
A Firm Favourite Wherever You Play!
A Firm Favourite Wherever You Play!
The differences between arcade and casino Plinko are simple - the arcades bring a more casual experience that’s perfect for the entire family, while the online casino turns the game into a gambling classic complete with player-adjustable options. The result is true player choice, as you can decide for yourself which version you’d rather play!
That said, as fun as Plinko is, it's important to always play responsibly. So set a bankroll for playing, and stick to it. Make small bets so that your bankroll lasts longer, and remember that Plinko is ultimately a game of chance. This means there are no such things as hot or cold streaks! With all of this in mind you’ll be ready to play Plinko safely, and have a great time doing so.
