Book of Dead: Overview
Book of Dead by Play'n GO is one of the most widely played online slots in Europe and beyond. Inspired by ancient Egyptian mythology, it features the adventurer Rich Wilde and a classic 5-reel, 10-payline setup. Its enduring popularity comes from a combination of simple gameplay, a high RTP, and the thrill of its expanding symbol bonus round.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Developer | Play'n GO |
| RTP | 96.21% |
| Volatility | High |
| Paylines | 10 |
| Reels | 5 |
| Min/Max Bet | €0.01 – €100 per spin |
| Free Spins Feature | Yes (expanding symbols) |
RTP and Volatility: What to Expect
With an RTP of 96.21%, Book of Dead sits comfortably above average for online slots. However, it is paired with high volatility, which means you should expect long stretches without significant wins, followed by potentially large payouts — especially during the free spins bonus.
This game is best suited to players with a reasonable bankroll who are comfortable riding out dry spells in anticipation of bigger rewards. It is not ideal for players on very tight budgets who need frequent wins to maintain their bankroll.
Gameplay Mechanics
Book of Dead plays on a standard 5x3 grid. Symbols include classic Egyptian icons: the Pharaoh, Anubis, the Eye of Horus, and the playing card royals (10 through Ace). The premium symbol is Rich Wilde himself, offering the highest base-game payout.
The Book of Dead symbol serves a dual purpose — it is both the Wild and the Scatter. Landing 3 or more Books anywhere on the reels triggers the bonus round.
Free Spins Feature
This is where Book of Dead truly shines. When you trigger free spins:
- You receive 10 free spins.
- A special expanding symbol is randomly selected.
- During free spins, that symbol expands to fill the entire reel if it appears.
- Expanded symbols pay even when not in a standard payline pattern.
If the Rich Wilde symbol is chosen as the expanding symbol, the potential for very large wins is significant, as it can fill multiple reels and create massive payouts across all lines.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Above-average RTP of 96.21%
- Exciting, high-potential free spins round
- Simple, easy-to-learn gameplay
- Available at most reputable online casinos
Cons
- High volatility means long losing streaks are common
- Limited bonus features compared to newer slots
- Free spins can be hard to trigger
Who Is Book of Dead Best For?
Book of Dead is ideal for players who:
- Enjoy high-volatility, high-reward gameplay.
- Have a patient bankroll strategy and can absorb variance.
- Prefer straightforward mechanics over complex multi-feature slots.
Final Verdict
Book of Dead remains a benchmark slot for good reason. Its above-average RTP, iconic theme, and thrilling free spins feature make it a go-to choice for many players. Just be prepared for the volatility — the big wins are possible, but so are extended cold streaks. Always set a session budget before playing.