John Hunter and the Tomb of Scarab Queen

John Hunter and the Tomb of Scarab Queen Review

As a seasoned gambling writer, I’m excited to dive into Pragmatic Play’s «John Hunter and the Tomb of Scarab Queen.» This Egyptian-themed slot takes players on an adventure with the intrepid explorer John Hunter, offering a blend of classic slot mechanics and innovative features that will appeal to both novice and experienced gamblers.

Game Overview

Set against the backdrop of the pyramids, this 5-reel, 3-row video slot boasts 25 fixed paylines. The game’s medium volatility strikes a balance between frequent small wins and the potential for larger payouts, making it suitable for various playing styles. With an RTP of 96.5%, it sits comfortably above the industry average, offering fair odds to players.

Visual and Audio Design

Pragmatic Play has outdone themselves with the visual elements of this slot. The reels are adorned with beautifully rendered symbols that include:

• John Hunter himself (the highest-paying symbol)
• Anubis statue
• Gun holster
• Explorer’s satchel
• Card suit symbols (J, Q, K, A)

The audio complements the visuals perfectly, with an Egyptian-inspired soundtrack that enhances the immersive experience without becoming repetitive or distracting.

Gameplay and Features

Base Game

The base game is straightforward, with wins occurring when matching symbols land on a payline from left to right. What sets this slot apart is the Money Collect feature, which adds an extra layer of excitement to every spin.

Money Collect Feature

This innovative feature is the heart of the game. Money symbols, represented by scarabs, can appear on reels 1-4, displaying random cash values. The magic happens when a Collect symbol lands on reel 5, triggering one of five possible outcomes:

• Collect: Awards the sum of all visible Money symbols
• Extra Credit Collect: Adds its value to all Money symbols before collecting
• Multiplier Collect: Multiplies all Money values by up to 25x
• Expanding Collect: Expands Money symbols to fill their reels
• Respin Collect: Holds Money symbols and respins other positions

This feature keeps the base game engaging and offers the potential for substantial wins outside of the bonus round.

Free Spins Bonus

Landing three Pyramid scatter symbols on reels 2, 3, and 4 triggers 8 free spins. During this bonus:

• All Money symbol values are added to a bonus pot
• After the initial spins, a giant Money symbol covers reels 1-4
• Reel 5 spins for a chance to land a Collect symbol
• If successful, the entire bonus pot is awarded

The free spins can be retriggered indefinitely, adding to the excitement and win potential.

Betting Range and Maximum Win

The game caters to a wide range of budgets, with bets ranging from €0.25 to €125 per spin. This flexibility makes it accessible to casual players and high rollers alike. The maximum win potential is an impressive 10,500x the stake, which can result in substantial payouts, especially at higher bet levels.

Tips for Players

• Start with lower bets to get a feel for the Money Collect feature frequency
• Be patient during the base game, as the big wins often come from the bonus features
• Consider increasing your bet if you’re chasing the maximum win potential, but always within your budget
• Keep an eye on your bankroll and set strict loss limits before playing

Final Thoughts

«John Hunter and the Tomb of Scarab Queen» is a well-crafted slot that offers an engaging experience for players of all levels. The Money Collect feature adds a unique twist to the base game, while the free spins bonus has the potential for truly spectacular wins. The game’s medium volatility and above-average RTP make it a solid choice for extended play sessions.

While it may not reinvent the wheel in terms of theme, Pragmatic Play has created a polished and entertaining slot that stands out in the crowded Egyptian-themed market. Whether you’re a fan of the John Hunter series or new to these adventures, this game is definitely worth a spin for its combination of classic slot action and innovative features.