Overview
Book of Dead by Play'n GO is one of the most recognisable online slot titles in the industry. Released in 2016, it has maintained a massive following thanks to its straightforward mechanics, high volatility, and rewarding free spins feature. This review covers everything you need to know before playing.
Theme and Design
The game is set in ancient Egypt and follows the adventurer Rich Wilde through a tomb filled with hieroglyphics, golden artefacts, and mysterious symbols. The visual design is clean and atmospheric, with a dark sandy colour palette and well-crafted symbols including Anubis, scarabs, and the Book of Dead itself. The soundtrack is subtle but fitting — adding tension without becoming distracting.
Game Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Developer | Play'n GO |
| Reels / Rows | 5 × 3 |
| Paylines | 10 fixed |
| RTP | 96.21% |
| Volatility | High |
| Max Win | 5,000× stake |
| Min/Max Bet | $0.01 / $100 per spin |
Mechanics and Features
Book of Dead uses a classic 5-reel, 3-row layout with 10 paylines — simple by modern standards. The Book symbol acts as both the Wild and the Scatter. Landing 3 or more Books anywhere on the reels triggers the free spins bonus.
Free Spins Feature
The free spins round is where the game truly shines. Before the feature begins, one symbol is randomly selected as a Special Expanding Symbol. During the 10 free spins, this symbol expands to fill the entire reel if it appears, regardless of payline alignment. This mechanic can lead to enormous consecutive wins if the expanding symbol lands on multiple reels simultaneously.
Free spins can be retriggered, giving you an additional 10 spins each time you land 3 or more Books during the feature.
RTP and Volatility
With an RTP of 96.21%, Book of Dead sits just above the industry average. However, its high volatility means wins can be few and far between during base play. Players should expect extended losing streaks, with the big wins concentrated in the free spins feature. This makes it important to have a healthy bankroll and realistic expectations going in.
Who Is This Game For?
- High-volatility fans who enjoy chasing big wins rather than steady drip-feed payouts.
- Fans of Egyptian-themed slots — the theme is well executed without being overdone.
- Players who prefer simplicity — no overly complex bonus systems or confusing mechanics.
Final Verdict
Book of Dead remains popular for good reason. Its elegant simplicity, clean visuals, and explosive free spins potential make it a go-to title for experienced slot players. Just be prepared for variance — patience and bankroll discipline are key to getting the most from this classic.
Rating: 8.5/10 — A high-volatility classic that rewards patience and proper bankroll management.