Nice Catch 2 DoubleMax Slot Review
Yggdrasil Gaming have a reputation for bringing something distinctive to the table with each release, and Nice Catch 2 DoubleMax demonstrates this commitment to innovation. Released in January 2024, this fishing-themed sequel ventures underwater with a fresh visual identity, expanding the original’s 5-reel format to a 6-reel, 3-row grid offering 729 ways to win. The defining characteristic of this release is the pairing of Yggdrasil’s signature DoubleMax multiplier system with a Hold and Win bonus mechanic—a combination never attempted before in a DoubleMax title. With an RTP of 96% and high volatility gameplay, this slot targets experienced players familiar with the developer’s style and comfortable with extended dry spells in exchange for substantial payoff potential.
Base Game & Features
The core mechanic revolves around the DoubleMax multiplier system, which activates when fish symbols land on consecutive reels from left to right. Unlike standard multipliers with fixed values, DoubleMax multipliers are unlimited in their potential. During base game play, multipliers reach up to 256x when all six reels fill with fish symbols. This design means players can land substantial wins during regular spins without triggering any dedicated bonus feature—something that distinguishes Nice Catch 2 from many competing high-volatility slots where the base game primarily serves as a lead-in to bonus rounds.
The Fisherman and Diverwoman symbols serve dual purposes. The Fisherman (appearing on reel 5) collects any fish values currently visible on the reels, applying those multiplier values to the current spin’s winnings. This mechanic adds a layer of decision-making and complexity that rewards close attention to symbol positioning. The Diverwoman introduces strategic depth through her interaction with other features, particularly during the Hold and Win bonus where her presence doubles the multiplier value for the duration of the feature.
Bonus Features & Free Spins
The free spins feature triggers when 3 or more scatter symbols land simultaneously, awarding 8, 11, 14, or 20 spins respectively for 3, 4, 5, or 6 scatters. Notably, Yggdrasil included a gamble mechanic allowing players to attempt upgrading their spin tier using a 50/50 wheel. This choice—either secure your spins or risk them for the possibility of more—adds psychological engagement beyond simple feature activation. During free spins, the DoubleMax mechanics become significantly more rewarding because the multiplier cap is removed entirely. Where base game multipliers max at 256x, free spins allow unlimited growth. Additionally, landing a Fisherman or Diverwoman during the bonus awards an extra spin and doubles the current multiplier value, creating potential for exponential win growth.
The Hold and Win bonus represents the genuine innovation of this release. Triggered when the Diverwoman symbol appears on reel 6 alongside one or more treasure chest symbols, this feature grants players 3 spins to collect and lock in additional chests. Landing a new chest or another Diverwoman resets the spin counter back to 3, extending the feature. The Diverwoman doubles all multiplier values during the Hold and Win round, creating a synergistic relationship with the DoubleMax mechanics. Reviews from professional gaming platforms highlight this feature as genuinely novel for DoubleMax games, marking the first time Hold and Win mechanics have been integrated into a DoubleMax title. The feature performs competently, offering meaningful win potential whilst maintaining balanced gameplay progression.
For players preferring to bypass base game grinding, two Bonus Buy tiers are available. Spending 100x the bet triggers a spin guaranteed to land at least 3 scatter symbols (guaranteeing 8+ free spins), whilst 500x the stake triggers a spin with 6 guaranteed scatters for 20 free spins. Some player feedback suggests the 100x cost feels steep relative to the potential return, though this assessment misses the point of Bonus Buy mechanics—they’re designed as an optional convenience for impatient players, not a value proposition. For those willing to play through base game variance, these options remain available rather than mandatory.
Our Honest Verdict
Nice Catch 2 DoubleMax represents a standout entry in Yggdrasil’s lineup, scoring approximately 8/10 for its mechanical innovation and execution. The defining strength is the Hold and Win integration with DoubleMax—a genuine first-time combination that distinguishes this release from the broader DoubleMax portfolio. The unlimited multiplier growth during free spins, combined with frequent base game multiplier triggers, creates tangible engagement between bonus features. Presentation quality throughout (superb underwater graphics, smooth animations, intuitive audio design) elevates the experience considerably. The free spins gamble mechanic and Fisherman symbol collection system add decision-making depth rarely seen in standard fishing-themed slots.
The primary consideration is volatility classification. This is unambiguously a high-volatility title, meaning extended dry spells punctuated by explosive payoff potential. Casual players accustomed to regular smaller wins should look elsewhere—this game is built for bankroll-equipped players understanding the risk profile. The 10,000x maximum win, whilst substantially lower than the original Nice Catch DoubleMax’s 23,972x potential, remains competitive within fishing-themed slots and genuinely substantial for the volatility level. The Bonus Buy feature at 100x bet provides convenience for those wanting to jump directly into free spins, though the cost-to-benefit ratio can feel steep for smaller-stake players.
For experienced DoubleMax enthusiasts and players comfortable with high volatility mechanics, Nice Catch 2 DoubleMax delivers genuine value. It respects the player’s intelligence by avoiding the lazy sequel approach, instead offering meaningful mechanical enhancements and thoughtful design choices. Those new to Yggdrasil’s multiplier-focused system may experience an initial learning curve, though the mechanics become straightforward once understood. Overall, this is a confident, well-executed sequel that enhances rather than merely replicates its predecessor.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the RTP of Nice Catch 2 DoubleMax?
The standard RTP (Return to Player) for Nice Catch 2 DoubleMax is 96%, which is about average for online slots. For every £100 wagered over extended play, the mathematical expectation is a return of £96. This RTP is calculated across millions of spins, meaning individual spin results remain entirely random. -
What is the maximum win for Nice Catch 2 DoubleMax?
The maximum win for Nice Catch 2 DoubleMax is 10,000x your stake. The DoubleMax multiplier can reach 256x during base game play, whilst unlimited multipliers are possible during free spins mode, creating the potential for substantial payouts during the bonus feature. -
How volatile is Nice Catch 2 DoubleMax?
Nice Catch 2 DoubleMax is classified as high volatility, meaning lower frequency winnings but with higher payout potential per win. Yggdrasil adjusted the volatility downward from ‘super high’ (as in the original) to ‘regular high’, creating a more balanced experience while maintaining the high-variance character of the game. -
What are the free spins features in Nice Catch 2 DoubleMax?
Free spins trigger with 3 or more scatter symbols, awarding 8, 11, 14, or 20 spins for 3, 4, 5, or 6 scatters respectively. Players can optionally gamble their allocation using a 50/50 wheel to upgrade tiers. Landing Fisherman or Diverwoman symbols during free spins awards +1 spin and doubles the DoubleMax multipliers, extending feature duration and increasing win potential. -
What is the Hold and Win bonus in Nice Catch 2 DoubleMax?
The Hold and Win bonus triggers when a Diverwoman symbol appears on reel 6 alongside one or more treasure chest symbols. Players receive 3 spins to collect and lock treasure chests in place. Landing additional chests or another Diverwoman resets the spin counter, whilst the Diverwoman doubles all multipliers during this feature. -
Can you buy the bonus in Nice Catch 2 DoubleMax?
Yes, Nice Catch 2 DoubleMax features a Bonus Buy option with two tiers: 100x your bet triggers a spin guaranteed to land at least 3 scatters (8+ free spins), or 500x your bet triggers 6 guaranteed scatters for 20 free spins. This allows players to skip base game and jump directly into the bonus feature. -
How does the DoubleMax multiplier work in Nice Catch 2 DoubleMax?
Landing fish symbols on consecutive reels from left to right starting from reel 1 unlocks the DoubleMax multiplier for each reel. In base game, multipliers reach up to 256x. During free spins, multipliers are unlimited and can grow indefinitely. Fisherman and Diverwoman symbols double the current multiplier value during their respective features. -
When was Nice Catch 2 DoubleMax released?
Nice Catch 2 DoubleMax was released on January 16, 2024 by Yggdrasil Gaming. The game is available through the Yggdrasil platform and has been integrated into numerous online casinos operating under valid gaming licences globally.
