Scale of Anubis, a recent release from 7777 Gaming, presents a compelling blend of classic slot mechanics and innovative features within a richly-themed Ancient Egyptian setting. This review will dissect its unique gameplay, mechanics, and design, focusing on aspects that set it apart from the crowded field of online slots. Our target audience is the experienced player seeking a nuanced and potentially lucrative gaming experience.
Game Mechanics:
The core gameplay of Scale of Anubis centers on a 28-symbol grid arranged in a pyramid shape. This non-standard grid immediately differentiates it from the typical 3×5 or 5×3 setups common in online slots. Instead of paylines, wins are triggered when three or more identical symbols cluster together vertically or horizontally. This cluster pays system introduces a strategic element, as players anticipate cascading wins and the potential for substantial payouts from overlapping clusters.
The game cleverly incorporates a “hold and win” mechanic, amplified by the pyramid grid's unique structure. Symbols in central grid positions are statistically more likely to contribute to winning clusters, heightening anticipation during cascades. The visual representation of cascading wins, with symbols smoothly shifting to fill empty spaces, is polished and rewarding. This creates a tangible sense of momentum, exceeding the simple numerical calculation of wins found in many other slots. The pyramid grid itself elevates the visual appeal and enhances gameplay beyond a standard mathematical win calculation.
The RTP of 95.31% is a significant factor for seasoned players, falling within the acceptable range for many online slots. The medium variance signifies a balance between frequent smaller wins and the potential for larger, less frequent payouts, aiming for a sustainable gaming experience punctuated by thrilling big wins.
Bonus Features:
Scale of Anubis boasts several key bonus features that significantly enhance its appeal. The wild symbol, depicted as a scarab beetle, substitutes for all symbols except the jackpot symbols, considerably boosting the probability of winning combinations. A multiplier feature adds another layer of excitement. Winning clusters can be multiplied by x2, x5, or x10, determined randomly by a multiplier symbol activating during the game round. This random multiplier keeps players engaged, transforming even smaller wins into potentially larger payouts.
The game's standout feature is the progressive jackpot, accessed through the “Jackpot Temple” bonus round. Triggering this requires landing three jackpot symbols on the pyramid grid within a single game round. This feature transforms the game beyond simple wins, introducing an element of calculated risk and substantial reward. The “Jackpot Temple” bonus game itself involves navigating a series of choices, guiding the player on a path towards potential jackpot prizes – a unique gameplay feature mirroring the exploration of a real temple.
Atmosphere and Theme:
The game's Ancient Egyptian theme is flawlessly executed, immersing players in a world of golden treasures and ancient mysteries. The detailed artwork, combined with the fitting soundtrack, successfully evokes a sense of exploration and discovery. The use of iconic imagery – pyramids, Anubis, and scarab beetles – effectively strengthens the thematic immersion.
The color palette, primarily gold and brown tones, contributes to the overall opulent and luxurious feel. The symbols are meticulously designed and easily distinguishable, further enhancing the visual appeal and contributing to an overall consistent aesthetic experience.
Scale of Anubis demonstrates skillful design, successfully merging familiar slot elements with unique features to create a highly engaging and potentially lucrative gaming experience. The distinctive pyramid grid, the cluster pays mechanic, and the suspenseful progressive jackpot combine to produce a game that stands apart from other Ancient Egyptian-themed slots. The random multiplier feature heightens excitement, dramatically boosting the value of even smaller wins. The inclusion of both a multiplier and a progressive jackpot adds significant potential for lasting engagement and substantial payouts.