Wanted Dead or a Wild is a video slot developed by NetEnt, one of the leading providers in the iGaming industry. Released in 2020, this game has quickly become popular among players seeking high-stakes action and potential rewards. In this comprehensive review, we will delve into every aspect of Wanted Dead or a Wild, examining its theme, design, symbols, payouts, wilds, scatters, bonus features, free spins, RTP, volatility, betting range, max win, gameplay, mobile play, player experience, and overall analysis.
Theme and Design
Wanted Dead or a Wild is set in the Old West, where cowboys and demo outlaws roam free. The game’s backdrop is a rugged desert landscape, complete with cacti, rocks, and sun-baked terrain. Players are transported to this lawless world through NetEnt’s signature high-definition graphics, which bring every detail to life. The slot features six reels and 117649 ways of winning, providing an enormous number of combinations.
Symbols
The game’s symbols are divided into two categories: low-paying and high-paying. Low-paying symbols include the standard Ace (A), King (K), Queen (Q), Jack (J), and ten (10) cards, designed in a classic, bold font. High-paying symbols feature iconic Western elements: horseshoes, lassos, holsters, six-shooters, and – of course – cowboy hats.
Payouts
The payouts for the low-paying symbols are relatively standard, with 0.3 to 2 times the total bet per line for a five-of-a-kind combination. However, the high-paying symbols offer more substantial rewards, ranging from 5 to 50 times the total bet for the same combination.
Wilds and Scatters
The Wild symbol in Wanted Dead or a Wild is represented by the logo itself – "Wanted Dead Or A Wild." This symbol can substitute for any other icon on the reels, helping players create winning combinations. The Scatter symbol features an American-style sheriff’s badge with crossed guns; three or more of these scatters activate free spins.
Bonus Features
The game has several bonus features that add excitement and potential rewards to each spin:
- Free Spins: Three scatter symbols initiate ten free spins, during which the Wilds can appear as stacked symbols.
- Stacked Symbols: During base play or in a no-cost spin, up to four random reel sets can become "Wanted" – marked with a badge and offering higher payouts for each symbol combination formed on that set.
- Dead Man’s Draw Bonus: Two scatters activate the Dead Man’s Draw bonus; players draw five playing cards from an automatic shuffler while two Wilds are displayed; each drawn card substitutes as a winning combination (wild) or fails to match, reducing their number.
Free Spins
During free spins, stacked Wilds increase the chances of forming high-paying combinations. Each reel set can become "Wanted," marked with a badge and offering higher payouts for the respective symbol combinations formed on that set. This feature creates an atmosphere of high-stakes adventure in what would otherwise be standard gameplay.
RTP
The return to player (RTP) percentage is not explicitly stated by NetEnt, but based on industry standards, we estimate it at around 96%.
Volatility
Wanted Dead or a Wild has medium-to-high volatility. Given the RTP and the payout structure, this slot is geared towards experienced players who are willing to take calculated risks for substantial rewards.
Betting Range
Players can bet anywhere from €0.20 (€0.01 per payline) up to €100 on each spin. The maximum win potential stands at a significant 50 times the player’s total stake, making this slot an attractive option for high-rollers seeking exciting gameplay and lucrative rewards.
Gameplay
Wanted Dead or a Wild features intuitive controls that allow players to control their bets, access game settings (including graphics quality), and consult in-game information. The slot is fully responsive, accommodating mobile devices without compromising on visuals or functionality.
Mobile Play
NetEnt has optimized the experience for both iOS and Android users, ensuring seamless gameplay across all platforms – desktops, tablets, smartphones, and mobile browsers. Players can enjoy Wanted Dead or a Wild anywhere they have an internet connection, taking their high-stakes adventure with them at any time.
Player Experience
Overall player feedback is overwhelmingly positive regarding the engaging atmosphere of this slot. The blend of realistic graphics, thrilling gameplay, and lucrative rewards creates a highly immersive experience that keeps players entertained for hours on end.
Analysis and Conclusion
Wanted Dead or a Wild offers an exhilarating gaming experience with its high-stakes action and substantial reward potential. Through NetEnt’s innovative design, the player is transported to the lawless Old West, immersed in every detail of this video slot. The inclusion of stacked Wilds during base play or no-cost spins further amplifies gameplay excitement.
While some may find certain aspects – like the limited RTP range – less than satisfactory compared to other slots on the market, Wanted Dead or a Wild undeniably provides an entertaining experience that meets its promise as "a high-stakes adventure." For those looking for exciting gameplay and substantial rewards within their budget, NetEnt’s latest creation is sure to captivate.