Scroll of Dead

If you've played even a handful of online slots before, you'll be able to take a good guess at the theme of Scroll of Dead from Play'n GO. The inclusion of the word "of…" in the title is usually a bit of a giveaway that you'll almost always be heading to Egypt - and this time, you'd be right. But although you may have paid this location a virtual trip many times before, it's always worth returning when there's a prize of up to x7500 that could be won. 

Book of Ra was released originally in 2005, and since then, there has been a flood of "Book of.." slots that have taken inspiration from its successful format. Book of Ra has been updated and tweaked several times for sequels, with no fewer than eight different Book of Ra titles now available. But there are also many others utilising the same idea, such as Book of Dead and Book of the Fallen. While there are some which use a different theme, such as Book of Shadows, the vast majority feature ancient Egypt. And such has been the success of these slots that there are many who have dropped the "book" from their title. But still, closely resemble a Book of Ra clone! 

The game is played on a 6x3 grid which includes ten paylines. These are variable and can be adjusted using the plus and minus buttons below the reels, a handy option for players on a budget. You can bet anything from 0.01 to 100.00, but it will cost a minimum of 0.10 for all ten paylines to be in play. It's a highly volatile slot, so you can expect it to take a while before the big prizes start rolling out.  

As an Egyptian-themed slot, you've probably got a reasonably good idea of what to expect, and you won't be disappointed. Stylised gold symbols? Carved pillars? Hieroglyphics? Dim chamber with flame-lit torches? Tick, tick, tick, and tick. There's everything you'd expect from an Egyptian slot, and that's not a bad thing.  

The low pays are made from playing card royals with a golden glint. The premium symbols are more exciting with an Ankh cross, serpent and a falcon, plus a Cleopatra style figure. Land five of the latter, and you will collect a truly magnificent x500, a prize worthy of the famous Egyptian queen herself.

The scarab is the wild and can substitute for any of the low or premium pays to help you to line up a win.

The scarab beetle is an important symbol in Egypt - and in this game too. That's because it's not just the wild, it's the scatter as well, and if you land at least three, you'll win eight free spins. 

Before the free spins bonus begins, the reels will expand to reveal a hidden 6th reel. This will remain active for the duration of your bonus but disappear once you return to the main game. A symbol will also be chosen to be expanding; this symbol will not just cover the full reel, but it also pays all ways during the bonus, giving you even more opportunities to win.  

Back in the base game, you can opt to increase your prize money if you're feeling adventurous. Opt to either collect your winnings or bet them on a Gamble feature. This will allow you to play for either x2 or x4 your winnings, depending on how much risk you want to take. Lose the gamble, and you'll return to the main game empty-handed - but win, and you can choose whether to collect the higher prize money or bet again!

Scroll of Dead from Play'n GO joins the many other Egyptian-themed slots from both Play'n GO and other studios - but it's a very welcome addition. With expanding reels, special symbols and the chance to gamble, it's not the most original slot, but there are lots here to keep every player thoroughly entertained.