Bomb Bonanza Slot Review
Pragmatic Play deliver a solid mining-themed offering that sits comfortably in the high volatility space. Released in July 2022, Bomb Bonanza combines familiar mechanics with refined execution, targeting players who appreciate retro gold-rush aesthetics and expanding wild mechanics. The game plays on a 5×5 grid with 50 fixed paylines, backed by an above-average RTP of 96.46% (with alternative options at 95.50% or 94.50% for operators). However, the 2,015x maximum win cap won’t satisfy those chasing truly massive multipliers—it sits well below the 5,000x standard Pragmatic Play typically offers.
Base Game & Features
The foundation of Bomb Bonanza centres on its Expanding Wilds mechanic, which defines the base game experience. Wild symbols expand in square patterns—starting at 1×1 and growing up to 5×5—across four directions (left, right, up, and down). As they expand, wilds replace both high and low-paying symbols in their path, creating cascading win opportunities across the grid. The feature offers genuine play potential and draws comparison to proven Big Time Gaming mechanics, providing enough variance to maintain interest during base game spins.
Symbol values range from the Prospector as the premium high-paying symbol through mid-tier offerings including Bag of Gold, Mining Sieve, and Pickaxe, down to standard card values (Ace, King, Queen, Jack). The scatter symbol triggers the bonus round, whilst the wild (depicted as a bomb) serves as the game’s core mechanic. The base game rhythm benefits from expanding wild bursts punctuating standard line pays, though extended periods without triggers can feel repetitive. Turbo and Quickspin modes are available for players preferring faster gameplay.
Bonus Features & Free Spins
Bomb Bonanza’s bonus structure centres on a progressive level system built around Golden Nugget collection. Land 3 scatter symbols specifically on reels 1, 3, and 5 to trigger 6 free spins and enter the bonus round. During free spins, Golden Nuggets appear on the reels and are collected in a meter displayed to the right of the screen. Each collection milestone unlocks new progression levels with increased wild expansion sizes.
The progressive structure unfolds as follows: Level 2 requires 5 Golden Nuggets collected, awarding +4 free spins and expanding wilds to 2×2 size. Level 3 again requires 5 nuggets, granting +2 free spins and 3×3 wild expansion. Level 4 similarly needs 5 nuggets for +2 spins and 4×4 expansion. Finally, Level 5 requires only 3 nuggets to unlock +1 free spin and the maximum 5×5 wild expansion. This tiered system creates engaging progression, though reaching maximum expansion demands consistent Golden Nugget drops. The bonus can end quickly if collection stalls, creating tension around whether you’ll progress to higher levels or see the round wind down prematurely.
Pragmatic Play offer a bonus buy feature, allowing players to purchase direct entry into the free spins round for an accelerated experience. Music intensifies and sound effects become more dramatic as players progress through bonus levels, reinforcing the escalating intensity of larger wild expansions.
Our Honest Verdict
Bomb Bonanza delivers reliable gameplay with competent feature execution, yet falls short of breakthrough status within Pragmatic Play’s portfolio. The expanding wilds mechanic functions well, and the progressive bonus system with Golden Nuggets provides engaging structure. The above-average 96.46% RTP presents solid mathematical value, particularly for players who value operator flexibility via alternative RTP options.
However, the 2,015x maximum win creates significant tension with the high volatility classification. Players expecting explosive potential given the volatility rating face disappointment—the cap sits considerably below Pragmatic Play’s 5,000x standard and substantially beneath true high-variance competitors like Gold Digger (8,230x) or Bonanza Megapays (117,649 ways) in the mining genre. If you’re chasing absolutely massive potential wins, Bomb Bonanza may not be your best choice.
The mining theme, whilst executed with polished animation and quirky charm—featuring a wooden mine entrance flanked by lanterns and barrels with amusing character details—feels dated and overcrowded. Mining-themed slots saturate the market, and this release doesn’t differentiate visually. Reviewers expected more explosive excitement in overall feature delivery, particularly given the mining aesthetic suggesting action and intensity.
Best suited for fans of mining-themed slots with retro gold-rush appeal and players seeking moderate-to-high volatility with tempered win expectations. With managed expectations, there’s moments of promise and reliable gameplay to appreciate. Those new to Pragmatic Play may find more innovative or visually standout mechanics elsewhere in their catalogue, though the solid RTP and engaging bonus system ensure this remains a dependable option for its target demographic.
Bomb Bonanza FAQs
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What is the RTP of Bomb Bonanza?
Bomb Bonanza has an RTP of 96.46% (standard RTP), with alternative RTPs of 95.50% or 94.50% depending on casino operator. This above-average figure provides solid mathematical value across play sessions. -
What is the maximum win in Bomb Bonanza?
The maximum win in Bomb Bonanza is 2,015x your stake. Whilst respectable, this cap sits below the 5,000x standard Pragmatic Play typically offers on high volatility releases. -
How to trigger free spins in Bomb Bonanza?
Land 3 scatter symbols specifically on reels 1, 3, and 5 to trigger the free spins bonus round. You’ll receive 6 initial free spins, with the opportunity to add more by collecting Golden Nuggets during the feature. -
Is Bomb Bonanza a high volatility slot?
Yes, Bomb Bonanza is classified as a high volatility slot game, with Pragmatic Play rating it 4/5 for volatility. This means expect extended dry spells punctuated by larger wins, rather than frequent small payouts. -
How many paylines does Bomb Bonanza have?
Bomb Bonanza features 50 fixed paylines across its 5×5 grid structure. These paylines cannot be adjusted, meaning all 50 are active on every spin. -
What symbol features expanding wilds?
The wild symbol (bomb) in Bomb Bonanza expands in square patterns—growing from 2×2 to 3×3, 4×4, and up to 5×5 maximum size. Expansion occurs both during base game and free spins, with larger expansions unlocked through progressive bonus levels via Golden Nugget collection. -
Can you buy free spins in Bomb Bonanza?
Yes, Pragmatic Play offers a bonus buy feature for Bomb Bonanza, allowing players to purchase direct entry into the free spins round for an accelerated experience without waiting for scatter triggers. -
What is the minimum and maximum bet?
Bomb Bonanza allows bets from 0.25 to 125 per spin, providing flexibility across casual players to high-stakes enthusiasts. This bet range ensures accessibility regardless of bankroll size.
