Game Mechanics
Wanted Dead or a Wild, developed by Hacksaw Gaming, is played on a 5x5 grid with 15 paylines. Players win by matching at least three symbols from the leftmost reel. The slot supports stakes ranging from $0.20 to $100 per spin, accommodating both budget-friendly and high-stakes players. It also features turbo spins and autoplay options for a quicker pace, and wild symbols that substitute for pay symbols to help create winning combinations.
The slot is highly volatile, with a 4 out of 5 rating, meaning substantial wins can be less frequent but significant. The default RTP stands at 96.38%, though operators can adjust it down to as low as 88.42%. The game offers a maximum win potential of 12,500x the stake and a hit rate of 19.36%, indicating that wins occur on average once in every five spins. These elements combine to make Wanted Dead or a Wild a captivating game for those looking for big payouts and dynamic gameplay.
Understanding the Symbols
- Low Pay Symbols: 10, J, Q, K, A.These are standard card ranks, representing lower-value payouts with multipliers ranging from 0.1x to 1x depending on the number matched on a payline.
- High Pay Symbols: Animal Skull and Bandit. Mid-tier symbols themed around the outlaw life, offering payouts from 0.5x to 5x the stake.Money Bag and Liquor Bottle. Symbols connected to the Wild West's robbery and saloon culture, with rewards from 1x to 10x the stake.Gun Chamber.The highest regular symbol, symbolizing danger, pays between 2x and 20x the stake.
- Wild Symbol: Substitutes for other symbols to form winning combinations and pays 20x for five on a line.
- Scatter Symbol: Three Different Scatters.Trigger one of three bonus rounds, each enhancing gameplay and potential winnings.
Bonus Features
- VS Symbol Feature: Activates when landing, expanding to cover the reel and turning wild, with a random multiplier from 2x to 100x. Multiple VS symbols combine their multipliers for larger wins. This feature represents a gunslinger duel, reflecting the game's outlaw motif.
- The Great Train Robbery Bonus Round: Triggered by three or more Train Robbery symbols, this round awards 10 free spins where wilds become sticky. It emulates the historical train heists of the Wild West, adding an element of thrilling criminal adventure.
- Duel at Dawn Bonus Round: This bonus is activated with three or more Duel symbols, granting 10 free spins and an increased occurrence of VS symbols. It captures the suspense of Wild West gunfights, highlighting the era's dangerous encounters.
- Dead Man’s Hand Bonus Round: Begins by collecting wilds and multipliers in a respin mode, with up to 20 wilds and a 31x multiplier possible. Transitioning to the Showdown phase, these are randomly placed across spins, enhancing wins with the collected multiplier.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Engaging theme with immersive Wild West atmosphere.
- Multiple bonus features enhance gameplay diversity.
- Attractive visuals and sound design.
- Option to buy into bonus rounds (non-UK).
Cons:
- Adjustable RTP ranges can lower payout consistency.
- High volatility may deter some players.
- Complex features might confuse new players.
Software Provider
Hacksaw Gaming, founded in 2018 and based in Malta, is known for developing unique online slots and scratch card games. The company focuses on innovative, mobile-optimized titles with distinctive themes and engaging gameplay. Their diverse portfolio features creative and visually appealing games designed for a modern audience. Gaining rapid recognition in the online casino industry, Hacksaw Gaming emphasizes high-quality, player-centric gaming experiences.
Conclusion
The slot’s high volatility and multiple bonus features offer players the potential for significant rewards, making each spin both thrilling and potentially lucrative. The game’s innovative use of wild multipliers and unique bonus rounds add depth to the playing experience, keeping it dynamic and exciting.
However, the variable RTP and the complexity of its features might not appeal to all players, especially those new to high-volatility slots. Nevertheless, for those drawn to immersive themes and the chance at large payouts, Wanted Dead or a Wild presents a compelling choice, standing out in a crowded market of online slots.
