3 Lucky Hippos

More often than not, African wilderness slots tend to lean into nature-themed serenity or intense sunsets, but 3 Lucky Hippos by Pear Fiction Studios is bursting with bright, midday energy. Set against some acacia trees, grassy plains, and a shimmering pond, the game is a cheerful take on the safari aesthetic. Mt. Kilimanjaro-like peaks rise in the distance, framing a scene that feels alive and vibrant without leaning too much into clichés.

The game’s 5-reel, 3-row layout provides 243 ways to win initially, but it doesn’t stop there. Split symbols can expand the rows, increasing the ways to win to a whopping 7,776. This dynamic grid isn’t just visually exciting; it also sets up players for varied outcomes with every spin. Bets range from 0.20 to 50.00, striking a balance for both cautious and more adventurous players.

The lower-paying symbols are represented by the familiar card ranks: 10, J, Q, K, and A. While they might not dazzle, their bright colouring and simple designs fit well with the game's upbeat style. These symbols make up the backbone of smaller wins, offering consistent action to keep the reels moving.

The higher-paying symbols break away from the typical nature theme, leaning into treasure-inspired imagery. Dice, chips, bags of loot, gold bars, and safes fill the reels, reminding players that this is no ordinary safari — it’s one with some serious riches at stake. A golden vault door acts as the Wild symbol, substituting for all regular symbols to help form winning combinations. 

One of the key mechanics of 3 Lucky Hippos is the Cash Collect feature. Green Cash symbols land with values ranging from 0.2 to 100 times the bet, but they don’t pay out automatically. Instead, players need a frog Collect symbol to appear on reel 5 to scoop up those prizes.

The game’s Multiplier mechanic adds even more action. Orange Coins can increase the Multiplier up to 10x, which is applied to Cash Collects or the Multiply LockNWin feature. However, the Multiplier resets after each use, keeping players on their toes.

Split symbols land on the top row and have the unique ability to add up to three rows to the reels they land on. These symbols can significantly expand the grid, carrying their effects into the LockNWin features for even greater rewards. Similarly, Lotus symbols also appear on the top row and trigger all three LockNWin rounds when collected across reels.

LockNWin comes with three distinct variations. Orange Coins trigger the Multiply LockNWin round, where the accumulated Multiplier is applied to all Cash prizes collected. Yellow Coins activate the Jackpot LockNWin, which awards one of five jackpots if players fill all designated spaces — ranging from the Micro Jackpot worth 10x to the Mega Jackpot worth 5,000x the bet. Finally, Pink Coins unlock the Supreme LockNWin, where Orange Cash collects all Green Cash, and Purple Cash collects both Green and Orange Cash for cascading rewards. Each LockNWin round begins with three respins, resetting the counter every time a new Cash or Jackpot symbol lands. 

3 Lucky Hippos combines colourful visuals with a mechanic system that's both engaging and varied. From its LockNWin variations to the unexpected mix of treasure and safari themes, it's a slot that doesn't shy away from standing out. Players looking for a game with more depth and dynamic features will find 3 Lucky Hippos an interesting addition to bwin's lineup. If you enjoy this game, why not also try Bunny Loot, Dungeons and Diamonds and Treasures of Kilauea.