Symbols and Their Pay Values
Aztec Clusters features an array of vibrant symbols inspired by ancient Aztec culture, each with its own pay value. The game uses a cluster-pay mechanic, meaning you’ll need at least 5 identical symbols adjacent to each other (horizontally or vertically) to trigger a win. These symbols include brightly colored jewels, masks, and animal totems, all contributing to the high-energy gameplay.
In addition to the standard symbols, there are bonus symbols that can appear during the Dig-up feature. These include Scatter, Wild, Booster, and Destroyer symbols. The value of these symbols is tied to their function, such as Wilds substituting for any symbol (except the special symbols), and Booster symbols enhancing multipliers. More on these bonus symbols in the following sections!
Cluster-Pays: The Heart of the Action
The core mechanic of Aztec Clusters revolves around cluster-pays, where 5 or more identical symbols in adjacent positions (vertically or horizontally) create a winning combination. Once the symbols disappear after a win, new symbols fall into place to fill the empty spaces. The process continues until no more winning combinations are formed in the same spin, which can lead to multiple wins in a single round!
The Mighty Dig-Up Feature
After a winning cluster disappears, the Dig-up feature takes over, giving players a chance to uncover bonus symbols that could change the course of the game. These bonus symbols can appear in empty cells, and there are four types to watch out for:
Scatter Symbol: Can trigger the Free Spins round when 3 or more appear.
Wild Symbol: Substitutes for any other symbol (except for Scatters, Boosters, and Destroyers).
Booster Symbol: Increases multipliers on the board.
Destroyer Symbol: Destroys low-paying symbols, refreshing the board with new symbols.
The Dig-up feature adds a layer of excitement and unpredictability, as you never know what bonus symbol might pop up next!
Free Spins Round: The Ultimate Bonus
Aztec Clusters offers an exciting Free Spins round, triggered by landing 3 or more Scatter symbols anywhere on the reels. Depending on the number of Scatters, you’ll be awarded between 10 and 20 free spins. During this round, the Scatter symbols turn into either Sticky Wilds or Cell Multipliers with up to x10 values, making it a highly rewarding feature.
Additionally, if you land 3 or more Scatters during the Free Spins round, the feature is retriggered, giving you even more chances to win big. If you love multipliers and extra Wilds, the Free Spins round is where the magic truly happens!
Buy Bonus: Skip to the Free Spins Action
For those who can’t wait to trigger the Free Spins round, Aztec Clusters offers a Buy Bonus feature. You can purchase the Free Spins round directly by paying x100, x200, x400, or x800 of your bet size. If you choose the Buy Bonus with guaranteed Wilds, you can secure anywhere from 0 to 3 guaranteed Sticky Wilds at the start of your Free Spins. It’s a quick way to jump right into the action, especially if you’re looking to maximize your chances of hitting big wins!
Wild Spin: A Guaranteed Wild for Extra Thrills
The Wild Spin feature lets you pay 20x your bet for a guaranteed Wild symbol to dig up before the start of a spin. This Wild symbol will appear in an empty cell and will stay there, boosting your chances of landing even more rewarding combinations. It’s a feature that adds a thrilling element of surprise, especially when used strategically!
RTP and Volatility: What You Need to Know
The slot has an RTP of 97%. RTP is the percentage of money players can get back through the game. For a game of this type and theme, this figure is very solid and high. The higher RTP, the better value for the player. In this case, the RTP for the Buy Bonus feature is the same at 97% for all options, whether you choose no guaranteed Wilds or up to 3 guaranteed Wilds. The game medium-to-high volatility and a balance between small and bigger wins. Players need to be patient for rewards, but the massive rewards make up for the same.
Tips and Tricks: How to Master Aztec Clusters
Watch for the Dig-Up Feature: Stay alert after a winning spin to see if any bonus symbols appear. They can significantly boost your chances of landing a big win!
Maximize Your Free Spins: If you trigger the Free Spins round, aim for the highest number of Scatters to ensure you get the most free spins and the best multipliers.
Buy Bonus for Instant Action: If you’re in a hurry and want to dive straight into the Free Spins, consider using the Buy Bonus feature to skip the wait.
Use the Wild Spin Strategically: Paying 20x your bet to guarantee a Wild can be a game-changer, especially when it’s placed on a marked cell with a multiplier.