More Unusual Catch brings a fresh perspective to fishing-themed slots with its innovative 5×4 layout and 20 fixed paylines. The game introduces a unique Sticky Frame system where Wild symbols leave multiplier frames that can increase up to x5, creating dynamic win potential. Purple and Blue Wilds work together with the Angler Wild bonus to populate these frames, while the Bonus Perk Bar rewards persistent play with extra features during Free Spins. The base game offers 96.06% RTP (96.10% with Buy Feature) and incorporates multiple bonus mechanics including Nudging Scatter Respins and a Tackle Box Jackpot feature. Free Spins can award 10 to 20 spins with multipliers reaching up to x10 through the Big Bass trail progression system. The combination of sticky multipliers, progressive features, and jackpot potential creates an engaging fishing adventure that stands out in the genre.
In the saturated world of fishing-themed slot games, More Unusual Catch distinguishes itself through its intricate blend of mechanics and features. This 5-reel, 4-row video slot introduces several novel concepts that set it apart from conventional fishing slots, particularly in its implementation of sticky frames and progressive multipliers.
The Fundamentals of Fishing
The game operates across 20 fixed paylines, with wins calculated from left to right. What makes this slot particularly intriguing is its implementation of the Wild system. The game features two distinct Wild symbols: a purple fish and a blue fish, with the purple variant capable of spawning additional Wilds or replicating itself. This creates an interesting dynamic where a single Wild can potentially lead to a cascade of opportunities.
Innovative Sticky Frame Mechanics
Perhaps the most distinctive feature is the Sticky Frame system. When Wild symbols appear on the reels, they leave behind x1 multiplier frames. These frames can progressively increase their multiplier value up to x5, creating potential for substantial wins. This mechanic adds a layer of strategic depth, as players must consider the positioning and potential of these frames throughout their gaming session.
The Angler's Role
The Angler symbol serves as a crucial element in the game's design. When it appears, it triggers the Angler Wild bonus, populating all Sticky Frames with Wild symbols. The implementation differs between base game and Free Spins – in the base game, frames reset after the bonus, while in Free Spins, they persist until the feature ends. This creates two distinct gameplay experiences within the same mechanical framework.
Scatter and Bonus Progression System
The game implements a unique token collection system through its Bonus Perk Bar. Landing two Scatters adds a token to the bar, with 50 tokens unlocking an additional Bonus Perk Pick during Free Spins. This creates a sense of progression even during less successful spinning sessions, as players gradually work toward additional bonus features.
Free Spins and Big Bass Trail
The Free Spins feature incorporates a progression trail system where Angler symbols advance players toward increasingly valuable multipliers. The trail includes four “Big Bass” checkpoints, each awarding five additional spins with multipliers ranging from x2 to x10. This creates a crescendo effect during the bonus round, with potential rewards growing more substantial as players progress.
Tackle Box Jackpot Integration
Adding another layer of depth, the game includes a Tackle Box Jackpot system. Symbols can appear with Tackle overlays, and collecting these can trigger a jackpot picking game. This feature maintains engagement during base game play by providing an additional objective beyond standard line wins and bonus triggers.
Bonus Buy Option
For players seeking immediate access to features, the game includes a Buy Bonus option. This allows direct entry into the Free Spins feature at a predetermined cost based on the current bet level. The RTP slightly increases from 96.06% to 96.10% when utilizing this option.
Visual and Audio Design
The underwater theme is rendered with attention to detail, particularly in the animation of the Wild symbols and bonus features. The game's audio design complements the visual elements without becoming repetitive or intrusive during extended play sessions.
Mathematical Design
The game's mathematical model balances regular base game hits with the potential for significant wins during features. The increasing multipliers from Sticky Frames and the Big Bass trail create opportunities for substantial payouts while maintaining engagement through smaller wins and feature triggers.
Game Development Context
More Unusual Catch builds upon established fishing slot mechanics while introducing several innovative elements. The combination of Sticky Frames, progressive multipliers, and the Big Bass trail creates a unique gameplay experience that distinguishes it from other fishing-themed slots in the market.
This comprehensive approach to game design, combining familiar elements with innovative mechanics, creates an engaging experience for experienced slot players while remaining accessible to newcomers. The game successfully balances complexity and accessibility, providing depth without overwhelming players with unnecessary complications.
Game Attributes:
- Title: More Unusual Catch
- Type: Video Slot
- Provider: Northern Lights Gaming
- Theme: Fish, Fishing, Ocean, Gold
- Reels: 5
- Layout: 5×4
- Paylines: 20 fixed
- RTP: 96.06% (96.10% with Buy Feature)
- Bonus Features: Angler Wild Bonus, Sticky Frame Multipliers, Nudging Scatter Respin, Bonus Perk Bar, Free Spins, Tackle Box Jackpot
- Free Spins: 10, 15 or 20 Free Spins for 3, 4 or 5 scatters
- Respins: Yes (Nudging Scatter Respin)
- Wild: Yes (Purple and Blue Wilds)
- Scatter: Yes
- Multiplier: Up to x5 (Sticky Frames), up to x10 (during Free Spins)
- Bonus Buy: Yes