Book of Ra is a classic casino slot machine that has been popular among players for decades. Developed by Novomatic, it has become an iconic symbol in the world of online gaming. In this review, we will delve into every aspect of this legendary Book Of Ra slot slot machine, exploring its theme, design, symbols, payouts, and bonus features.
History and Popularity
Book of Ra was first released in 2005 by Novomatic, a renowned Austrian-based game developer. Since then, it has become one of the most beloved and enduring slot machines in the industry. Its popularity can be attributed to its unique theme, engaging gameplay, and rewarding payouts. Over time, various versions of Book of Ra have been developed, including Deluxe, Classic, and Pharaoh’s Gold. Each iteration offers a distinct experience while maintaining the core essence of the original game.
Theme and Design
The theme of Book of Ra revolves around ancient Egypt, evoking images of pharaohs, pyramids, and treasured artifacts. The background of the slot machine features an Egyptian desert landscape with palm trees swaying in the wind. Symbols on the reels are reminiscent of Egyptian culture, including scarabs, eyes of Horus, Pharaoh’s masks, and card suits (9-A). The game’s design is minimalist yet engaging, making it accessible to players from all over the world.
Symbols and Payouts
The Book of Ra slot machine features a total of 10 symbols. These include:
- Card suits (9-A) with varying payout values
- Scarab: awards up to 5 credits for three in a row
- Eye of Horus: rewards up to 20 credits for five in a row
- Pharaoh’s mask: pays out up to 50 credits for five in a row
- Book of Ra (wild): can substitute any symbol except the scatter, offering payouts ranging from x1 to x200
Wilds and Scatters
The wild symbol is represented by the Book of Ra logo. It appears on reels 2-4 and can replace all symbols except the scatter to form winning combinations. The scatter symbol is depicted as a sarcophagus, awarding free spins when three or more appear in any position.
Bonus Features and Free Spins
When three or four scatter symbols (sarcophagi) land anywhere on the reels, players trigger 10 free spins. During these free spins, all wild symbols are collected to form two extra scrolls of fortune for each spin. These additional scrolls increase the winning chances by replacing any missing symbol to complete a win.
Free Spins and Special Features
Upon landing four scatter symbols (four sarcophagi), an exciting feature is triggered:
- Two books of Ra appear on reels 2-4 during free spins
- Any combination wins that include at least one Book of Ra book are doubled, except for the first reel
- Free spins can be retriggered indefinitely
RTP and Volatility
The Return to Player (RTP) rate for Book of Ra is approximately 95.12%. While this is above average, it should not discourage players who enjoy moderate volatility slots with potential rewards.
Betting Range and Max Win
Players can place a minimum bet of $0.10 to maximize the payouts available in each game session. The maximum bet allowed varies by jurisdiction but generally ranges between €5-€50 per spin.
Gameplay Experience
Book of Ra offers an engaging experience, combining elements of skill and luck:
- Players can opt for the automatic mode or play manually
- Each spin takes a few seconds to complete; spins are relatively frequent compared to other Novomatic games
Mobile Play and Performance
In 2014, Novomatic launched Book of Ra Deluxe in HTML5 format. This mobile version provides an immersive experience on smartphones (iOS and Android) as well as tablets. The game retains the core elements that made it so popular among desktop players.
Player Experience
Book of Ra has a loyal following due to its appealing gameplay mechanics:
- Newcomers quickly grasp basic concepts
- Regulars appreciate opportunities for bonus rounds, free spins, and generous payouts
- Expert gamers analyze paylines and combination strategies
Overall Analysis
In conclusion, Book of Ra is an enticing slot machine that continues to captivate players worldwide. With a rich Egyptian theme, engaging design, rewarding payouts, wild symbols, scatters, bonuses features, and free spins, this classic game maintains its popularity among online casino enthusiasts.
While the RTP rate might be slightly below other slots in its class, Book of Ra still offers an exciting experience with multiple winning opportunities. Mobile accessibility allows players to enjoy their favorite slot machine on-the-go, expanding its reach beyond land-based casinos.
Novomatic has proven itself as a reputable game developer by consistently updating and refining popular titles like Book of Ra, demonstrating its commitment to innovative online gaming experiences.
Final Thoughts
Whether you are an experienced gamer or trying the classic Book of Ra for the first time, we hope this review gave you valuable insights into one of Novomatic’s most enduring slot machines. We will continue monitoring this game and providing updates as more information becomes available.
Remember, always gamble responsibly and seek professional help if needed.