Starburst’s Expanding Wilds vs. Other Slot Wild Features
The world of online slots is a vast and exciting place, filled with an array of different features that can enhance gameplay and increase winning potential. One of the most popular and enduring slot features is the wild symbol. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Starburst’s expanding wilds and how they compare to other slot wild features.
Before we dive into the specifics of Starburst’s expanding wilds, let’s quickly explain what wild symbols are in slots. A wild symbol is a special icon that can substitute for any other symbol on the reels to create winning combinations. They’re usually depicted as a stylized letter or logo and often have a distinctive design.
Wild symbols were first introduced in classic fruit machines and have since become a staple feature of modern slot games. They add an extra layer of excitement and unpredictability to gameplay, making it easier for players to win big.
Starburst’s Expanding Wilds
One of the most iconic slots with wild features is NetEnt’s Starburst. Launched in 2012, this five-reel, ten-payline slot has become a beloved favorite among players. At its core, Starburst offers classic gameplay and simple rules, but it’s the expanding wild feature that sets it apart.
When an expanding wild symbol appears on reels two, three, or four, it expands to cover the entire reel. This not only creates more winning opportunities but also leads to additional free spins and a multiplier of 1x. The expanding wilds can appear in both base game and free spin modes, making them a key factor in many players’ winning strategies.
Other Slot Wild Features
While Starburst’s expanding wilds are certainly impressive, they’re not the only way that slots use wild symbols to create excitement and rewards. Here are some other notable examples:
Sticky Wilds : These wild symbols remain on the reels for a set number of spins or until a winning combination is formed.
Random Wilds : These wilds can appear randomly anywhere on the reels, often with a multiplier attached to increase winnings.
Wild Reels : In some slots, entire reels turn into wilds when triggered by a specific symbol or combination.
Expanding Wilds vs. Sticky Wilds
One of the most common comparisons made between Starburst’s expanding wilds and other slot wild features is with sticky wilds. Both types of wild symbols can significantly increase winning potential, but they have distinct differences in how they operate.
Sticky wilds usually remain on the reels for a set number of spins or until a specific condition is met. This allows players to enjoy more extended periods of high volatility and increased chances of landing big wins. In contrast, expanding wilds expand to cover an entire reel, providing a higher chance of hitting multiple winning combinations in a single spin.
Expanding Wilds vs. Random Wilds
Another type of slot wild feature that’s often compared to Starburst’s expanding wilds is random wilds. These can appear anywhere on the reels with no specific pattern or trigger symbol required.
Random wilds often come with multipliers attached, increasing winnings when a winning combination is formed using these symbols. However, they may not offer the same level of control and predictability as expanding wilds.
Expanding Wilds vs. Wild Reels
Wild reels take the concept of expanding wilds to the next level by turning an entire reel into wilds. This can happen when a specific symbol or combination appears on the reels. The resulting free spins often come with high multipliers and increased volatility, making it easier for players to land big wins.
While wild reels offer a similar sense of excitement and unpredictability as expanding wilds, they’re not always guaranteed to appear in every spin.
Conclusion
Starburst’s expanding wilds are an iconic feature that has captivated slot enthusiasts worldwide. While other slot games offer different takes on the traditional wild symbol, Starburst remains one of the most beloved and enduring slots with this feature.
By understanding how expanding wilds work compared to sticky wilds, random wilds, and wild reels, players can make informed decisions when choosing which slot game to play next. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, exploring different types of wild symbols is an excellent way to discover new favorite games and maximize your winning potential.
NetEnt’s Starburst has stood the test of time due to its unique combination of simple gameplay, high-quality graphics, and an expanding wild feature that offers endless excitement. If you haven’t given it a try yet, why not give it a spin today and experience for yourself what makes this slot so special?