ELK Studios takes a sharp turn with Rogue Rats of Nitropolis, abandoning the familiar steampunk theme of the Nitropolis series for a high-volatility wasteland setting. This online slot presents a unique gameplay experience centered around a rodent uprising, setting it apart from other games in the series like Dirty Dawgs of Nitropolis or Pug Thugs of Nitropolis. Players assume the role of a rogue rat piloting a colored vehicle across a vast desert grid, collecting symbols for wins.
The core mechanic deviates from the standard slot format. Here, an infinite grid replaces reels and paylines. Wins are awarded by collecting symbols that match the color of the rat's current vehicle. Strategic fuel management becomes paramount, as the rat's movement consumes fuel. Fortunately, collecting symbols or destroying specific feature symbols replenishes the fuel tank, allowing for continued exploration of the grid.
Beyond basic colored gem symbols, Rogue Rats of Nitropolis offers a variety of feature symbols that enhance gameplay:
- Nitro Multiplier: Increases the value of winning symbol clusters. Activated by collecting Nitro Radar symbols.
- Nitro Blob: Upgrades the level of visible payout symbols, potentially increasing their value.
- Coins: Destroying specific feature symbols (NPD Cruisers, NPD Helicopters, Police HQ) awards instant coin prizes. A Max Win coin can also be revealed, awarding the slot's top jackpot.
- New Vehicle: The rat switches to a new vehicle of a different color, expanding the range of collectible symbols.
- Missile Silo: Expands the visible area on the grid, revealing more symbols for potential collection.
- Turret: When the rat moves adjacent to a Turret symbol, it expands the view to reveal distant feature symbols within the expanded area. These symbols are then collected, offering a chance to acquire valuable features.
Scatter symbols play a key role in triggering Free Spins features. Collecting two Scatter symbols awards 3 Free Spins with a significant advantage: the upgrade level of symbols and the Nitro Multiplier value persist throughout the Free Spins, potentially leading to larger wins. A Super Scatter symbol, when included among the collected Scatters, activates Super Free Spins. These function identically to regular Free Spins, but with the added benefit of starting with a full fuel tank, allowing for extended collection opportunities.
An additional layer of strategic gameplay is introduced through the X-iter feature. This buy-in system allows players to purchase various bonus rounds, including increased Free Spin chance or guaranteed features like Nitro Fuel Boost. This caters to players who prefer more direct access to bonus features. While Rogue Rats of Nitropolis offers a unique twist on the series' gameplay, those looking for a more traditional Nitropolis experience might want to try Nitropolis 4 or Nitropolis 5.