Explained: Wild Symbols in Online Slots

Michael Parfenov, Media Manager at Mascot Gaming, tells you everything you need to know about Wild symbols in online slots 

Wild symbols are found in the vast majority of online slots, but if you’re new to playing at online casinos, you might be wondering what they look like, how they work, the different types of Wild symbols that can land and, most importantly, how they help you win. 

At Mascot Gaming, we believe Wild symbols are a cornerstone feature in online slot games, adding excitement and increasing the chances of winning. And that’s why often include them in our titles.

So what exactly is a Wild symbol? 

A Wild is a special symbol in online slot games that can substitute for other symbols to help form winning combinations. Think of it as a Joker in a deck of cards – it can stand in for almost any other card to complete a hand. Similarly, in slots, a Wild can replace most symbols, making it easier for players to achieve wins.

In terms of how this symbol impacts the gameplay, Wild symbols significantly enhance the gaming experience by increasing the probability of forming winning lines. 

When a Wild appears, it can bridge gaps between other symbols, creating winning combinations that might not have been possible otherwise. This feature is especially beneficial when players need just one more symbol to complete a high-paying line.

Here’s an example of how a Wild connects gaps between symbols to form wins.

So when do Wilds appear? 

The appearance of Wild symbols is determined by the game’s random number generator (RNG), ensuring that each spin is independent and fair. 

Wilds can appear on any reel and at any time during the game, though sometimes they are restricted to certain reels or appear on all reels except specified ones. It’s not uncommon for multiple Wilds to land in a single spin, which can lead to substantial payouts.

There are different types of Wild symbols that can land, each offering unique benefits. Studios have gotten very creative when it comes to Wilds, so it’s tough to list all of the formats you can find in online slots but below are a few of the most common:

• Stacked Wilds: These appear in stacks, potentially covering entire reels and significantly boosting winning chances.
• Multiplier Wilds: These not only act as substitutes but also multiply the win by a specific factor, amplifying the payout.
• Sticky Wilds: These remain in place for several spins or throughout a bonus round, increasing the chances of multiple wins.
• Expanding Wilds: These expand to cover entire reels, creating numerous winning combinations. 
• Random Wilds: These appear randomly over existing symbols, adding an element of surprise.
• Duplicating Wilds: These transform other symbols into Wilds, further enhancing winning opportunities.

The variety of Wild symbols can be vast, as game designers continually invent new types to keep gameplay fresh and exciting. The possibilities are nearly endless, limited only by the designer’s imagination.

Now you know what Wilds are, how they work and how they help you win, you’ll probably want to know how you can make them land. 

While players cannot directly influence the appearance of Wilds due to the RNG mechanism, choosing games with higher frequencies of Wild features can enhance the likelihood of encountering them.

Wild symbols are an integral part of online slots, offering players increased chances of winning and adding an extra layer of excitement to the game. Whether it’s through Stacked, Multiplier, Sticky, or Expanding Wilds, these symbols bring variety and potential for bigger payouts, making them a favourite among slot enthusiasts.