Wild-symbols in slots are not just one of the many icons on the reels, but a powerful tool that significantly affects the player’s chances of winning. Unlike standard pictures, the wild fulfils the key function of replacing other signs, which increases the likelihood of forming successful combinations. It is worth noting that not all wilds are the same: they can have additional functions that enhance their value.
The idea of using a sign that can replace others was first realised in mechanical slot machines in the mid-20th century. But the real popularity of wilds gained with the development of digital technology and the emergence of video slots in the 1970s and 1980s. It is believed that the concept was invented by the developers of the machines in an attempt to add more dynamics to the games and increase player engagement. The first icons were simple and fulfilled only a basic function of replacing other icons. Over time, their role has become more complex and multifaceted. To understand the purpose and importance of symbols, it is necessary to consider the types, mechanics, as well as their impact on gameplay.
The main role of wild symbols in slots
Wilds replace other signs on the reels, which significantly increases the chances of forming a winning line. A simple wild overlaps any icon, except scatter, to create a successful chain. In modern video slots, the functionality has become extended and the sign can fulfil other roles in the mechanics of the game.
How the wilds affect the winning combinations:
- They replace other images. The main option allows you to collect successful chains even in cases where the user lacks one or more elements.
- Activate promo. In a number of slots, wild symbols activate additional features such as bonus rounds or freespins. In particular, many slot machines with progressive prizes use them to activate jackpot games.
- Increase payouts. In many machines such icons are able to multiply the winnings due to the presence of coefficients. Multipliers range from x2 to x10, increasing the prize money several times.
Types of wild symbols in slots
With the development of technology, wilds have become multifunctional and can provide players with various benefits. Let’s consider the main types and their features.
Simple
The most basic format. It overlaps any icons (except scatter) to create lucky rows. A simple wild has no additional options, but remains crucial to increase the chances of winning. In NetEnt’s Starburst slot, the Wild symbol (in the form of a gemstone) appears only on the centre reels and helps to create winning lines if it falls in the right combination.
Expanding
This type is not limited to one position on the reel, but fills the entire playing field. This significantly increases the likelihood that the participant will collect a winning chain of icons, since the sign occupies several cells at once. In Book of Ra from Novomatic, the wild (book) expands to cover the entire reel, increasing the potential for a big prize.
Sticky Wild
Sticky stays in place for several rounds. This gives the player extra chances to create winning combinations, as the picture does not disappear after one spin. In Vikings Go Berzerk by Yggdrasil Gaming, Sticky Wild can remain on the reels throughout the bonus session or freespins.
Multiplying Wild
This type does not just replace other images, but also multiplies the winnings. For example, in some slots Multiplying Wild-symbol can multiply the payout by a factor of x2, x3 or even x5. In NetEnt’s Gonzo’s Quest slot, such a sign increases the prize amount several times.
Walking Wild
This is a wild that moves across the reels with each spin, increasing the chances of creating multiple lucky lines. This can happen both horizontally and vertically. In The Phantom of the Opera from Microgaming, such an icon moves across the reels and creates additional combinations.
Shifting Wild
Shifting wilds move across the reels, but not always from the first spin. They can only be activated a few rounds after the start or by fulfilling certain conditions. In Immortal Romance video slot from Microgaming, the images move on the reels, replacing symbols and creating additional chains during the session.
Why are wild symbols needed in slots?
The role of wilds is not limited to just replacing the usual icons. Their presence can significantly increase the chances of big wins and create additional bonuses, improving the overall conditions for the user.
Benefits:
- Increased probability of winning. Replacing other signs, the wild helps to collect winning combinations, which increases the chance of ripping off the prize.
- Activation of bonus features. Many machines offer promos that are triggered when Wilds appear. These can be freespins, multipliers or extra payouts.
- Creating winning lines. Some such icons (such as expanding or multiplying icons) can increase the number of lucky rows, which creates more opportunities to win.
Examples of popular slots with wild symbols:
- Starburst (NetEnt) – a classic of the genre with simple wilds that expand on the reels of the slot and provide additional paylines.
- Gonzo’s Quest (NetEnt) – a machine with Multiplying Wild, which increases payouts several times thanks to the use of multipliers.
- Vikings Go Berzerk (Yggdrasil) – Sticky Wild pictures stay in place for several spins and can significantly increase the chance of a big win.
Conclusion
Wild-symbols in slots are not just an element of the game, but an important tool to increase the chances of winning. These signs fulfil various functions, from replacing regular pictures to activating multipliers and bonus rounds, which makes every slot machine with a wild more dynamic and profitable for players. Depending on the type of symbol, the mechanics of the game can change, which adds fun and unpredictability to the process.
