88 Fortunes Megaways Slot Information

Title: 88 Fortunes Megaways
Developer: SG Digital
Reels: 6
Rows: 2-7
Paylines: 117,649
RTP: 96.06%-96.27%
Hit Freq: N/A
Max Win: N/A
Volatility: Medium/High
Min/Max Bet: 0.08/88
Release Date: Out Now

88 Fortunes Megaways Review

Big Time Gaming’s Megaways engine continues to make waves in the world of slots, this time paired with an Asian-themed slot. The original 88 Fortunes was a lavish display of jackpots, progressive prizes, and extra features, all adorned in the familiar red and gold hues synonymous with this popular theme. It was easy to imagine oneself amidst the opulence of a bustling Macau casino while playing. The latest iteration manages to capture this essence to a certain extent, albeit with a slightly toned-down visual presentation. However, the decision to remove four of the jackpots may raise some eyebrows, though much of the original charm remains intact.

The most notable addition is the integration of the Megaways mechanic. With an astounding 117,649 potential ways to win, coupled with a cascading win system, the game introduces a dynamic element to the gameplay. The extensive win possibilities are made possible by six main reels, each capable of displaying up to seven symbols, along with an additional 1x4 row at the bottom. When a winning combination occurs, the symbols disappear, allowing new ones to cascade into place. While this can lead to exciting sequences of consecutive wins, it also typically results in lower symbol values.

At the lower end of the paytable, players will find familiar card symbols 9 to A, along with thematic icons such as bowls, a turtle, a junk boat, and a jade sculpture, offering rewards of up to 0.6 times the stake for six of a kind. Additionally, players can choose to activate up to five golden symbols, each enhancing the potential payouts. The bet levels per spin vary as follows:

• One gold symbol: 0.08 - 8 coins
• Two gold symbols: 0.18 - 18 coins
• Three gold symbols: 0.38 - 38 coins
• Four gold symbols: 0.68 - 68 coins
• Five gold symbols: 0.88 - 88 coins

While the bet levels may seem unconventional, Shuffle Master cleverly incorporates the auspicious number 8 whenever possible. Despite the relatively low symbol values, the excitement ramps up as consecutive wins trigger cascades.

Moreover, the Megaways mechanic contributes to an enhanced RTP rate ranging from 96.06% to 96.27%, depending on the number of golden symbols active. With a top theoretical prize reaching around 10,000x the bet, there's plenty at stake. However, it's the bonus features that truly elevate the gameplay experience.

The inclusion of two new symbols - the gong and the Fu Bat - adds an extra layer of excitement to the gameplay. The Fu Bat acts as a wild, substituting for all symbols except the scatter. Landing one or more Fu Bat symbols may trigger the picker feature, where players select coins to reveal free spin rewards:

• 10 free spins with a x6 multiplier
• 12 free spins with a x4 multiplier
• 15 free spins with a x2 multiplier

The gong symbol serves as the scatter, appearing on reels 1 to 6. Landing four, five, or six gongs triggers 8, 10, or 12 Free Spins, respectively, with the potential for retriggering. During the free spins round, each winning combination increases the multiplier by 1, leading to substantial rewards.

With every remake, the question arises: is the new version an improvement? While 88 Fortunes Megaways offers a different experience compared to its predecessor, it caters to a similar audience, particularly fans of Asian-themed slots and the Megaways game engine. However, players fond of the original 88 Fortunes' jackpot feature may feel its absence in this version. Nonetheless, the game retains its allure with high potential prizes and engaging mechanics. Though slightly lacking in visual appeal compared to its predecessor, 88 Fortunes Megaways still delivers an exciting gaming experience. Overall, whether you're a fan of the original, Asian themes, or simply curious, 88 Fortunes Megaways offers an exotic adventure worth exploring.