Microgaming May 2018 Online Slots
For Microgaming, the season has officially started and they are coming on strong, launching not one but two new slots, Temple of Tut and Amazing Aztecs – both obviously inspired by the mysteries and symbolism of ancient civilisations. This is not the first time that Microgaming uses the ancient civilisation references as the background for their reels; the creative team behind the developer has started the trend back in 2004, when Big Kahuna slot was first launched. Now, after a 5-year break, the theme has been officially revived and the slots ready to be launched by Just For The Win, up and coming Swedish developer that has already used Microgaming as a platform for their debut releases – Goldwyn’s Fairies, Lucky Links and Deco Diamonds.
Temple of Tut
Played on 5 reels and 10 paylines, Temple of Tut is a win-both ways slot with rather simple aesthetics and the adventure theme that centres on the quest for King Tut’s treasure. The three explorers who were brave enough to embark on this perilous journey are the main slot symbols, although second in line in terms of value. Traditionally, Wild is the symbol that can generate the highest payouts and the combination of 5 Egyptian Masks will increase the bet by x25; alone, this icon can replace all symbols except for the Scatter icons.
Bonus features
Any base game spin can trigger the Super Reels feature, where 1 to 5 reels will contain all of the slot symbols, including the Wilds.
At least 3 Slot Logo Scatter icons will set the Free Spins into motion, awarding a minimum of 8 additional spins. With every extra Scatter, the number of spins will increase – 4 Scatters will trigger 15 spins, while 5 Scatters will unlock no less than 30 bonus rounds. Super Reels can be activated during the bonus mode as well, increasing the winning potential immensely. If a new triggering combo happens to land on the reels while the bonus spins are in progress, players will be awarded with up to 15 new extra rounds.
What to expect?
The first impression is that Temple of Tut is no more than a simple slot, great for recreational play, but it wouldn’t be the first time that Microgaming and JFTW hide a few tricks up their sleeves. The absence of Wild symbol from the main game can definitely be considered as a major drawback, somewhat compensated by the decent Free Spins potential. Return to player is just over 96%, categorising Temple of Tut as the medium variance slot, which gives the best results with pressed bets, capped at $250. The payouts may not be as spectacular with the lower limit of $0.10, although players with budget limitations will appreciate the wide betting range as well as the both ways win structure.
Amazing Aztecs
Another JFTW product, Amazing Aztecs is a 5-reel and 243 way wins slot, compatible with desktops, smartphones and tablets. The inspiration is drawn from the rich tapestry of Aztec culture, featuring a character seemingly based on Montezuma, famous Aztec emperor whose confrontation with conquistadors made him immortal. The theme itself is often exploited by various software developers, due to the legend that surrounded Mesoamerican civilisations and the infamous search for El Dorado – the quest that’s frequently referenced in a number of slots.
In their latest release, JFTW takes the safe approach, presenting us with a visually basic, although attractively executed slot. There is no doubt that the players will be immediately drawn by the colourful and vibrant gem symbols, shaped and designed according to the architectural style of Aztec temples and religious symbols.
Bonus Features
The visual representation is decent enough to meet the demands of any player who enjoys simplicity and unpretentiously styled slots; time will only show how the new title will be ranked by those who dig deeper before finally rating the game. The fact that the game only has one bonus feature – Giant Re-spin – is not something that a lot of players will be happy about. Triggered after a winning combination, the feature introduces icon blocks of 2×2, 3×3 and 4×4 symbols which can boost one’s winning odds immensely. On the other hand, no versatility is likely to make the gameplay too linear, with only the hit frequency to tip the balance.
What to expect?
Amazing Aztecs is one of those games who can go either way. Opting for simplicity rather than going over the top, Microgaming and JFTW welcomed the spring in a confident yet casual manner, serving us with two conventional slots that do not stray from what we have had the opportunity to see thus far. Those who grew up with Microgaming releases and witnessed the birth of the first Just For The Win release will no be left disappointed, although (arguably), there’s no time like the present to start exploring different markets and broaden the horizons. It is still early to tell how Amazing Aztecs will fare with the majority of players, but it is safe to assume that the key demographics will be satisfied.