Return of Kong Megaways Slot Review
Blueprint Gaming have built a recognisable brand with their Kong series, and Return of Kong Megaways represents their evolution from traditional slot mechanics into the Megaways landscape. Originally launched with King Kong Cash back in 2016, the Kong franchise has become one of Blueprint’s most enduring properties. Rather than simply rehashing the formula, this Megaways variant introduces cascading reels, progressive multipliers, and a golden monkey collection system that distinguishes it from both its predecessor and the crowded Megaways market.
Released in April 2019 as a PokerStars exclusive before wider distribution, the game pairs Blueprint’s cartoonish Kong character with Big Time Gaming’s Megaways engine. The result is a medium to high volatility slot with 50,000x maximum win potential and an unlimited multiplier system during free spins. With 117,649 ways to win at maximum configuration, Return of Kong Megaways positions itself for players seeking feature-rich bonus rounds rather than steady base game returns.
Base Game & Features
The game operates on a 6-reel configuration with variable row heights ranging from 2 to 7 symbols per reel, creating the Megaways mechanic’s dynamic payline structure. At maximum configuration, 117,649 ways to win are active, though each spin generates a different number based on the random reel heights. Above the main reels sits a horizontal reel containing 4 symbols, which plays a critical role in the golden monkey collection system during free spins.
The visual presentation maintains Blueprint’s cartoonish aesthetic, with Kong positioned on a rocky outcrop beside the reels, wearing his distinctive gold “K” pendant. The jungle backdrop features palm trees and blue skies, creating a lighthearted atmosphere that contrasts with the game’s volatile mathematics. Symbol values are topped by Kong himself at 50x stake for a six-of-a-kind combination, with the rhino symbol paying 10x for the same.
Betting spans from £0.10 to £100 per spin, accommodating both cautious players and high rollers. For those seeking immediate access to the bonus round, a bonus buy feature is available at 100x total bet for the standard trigger, or 150x total bet for a mystery variant with adjusted RTP.
Cascading Reels
Winning symbols are removed from the grid and replaced by new symbols cascading from above, with reactions continuing until no new wins form. This mechanic operates in both base and bonus gameplay, creating potential for multiple consecutive wins from a single paid spin. During free spins, each cascade contributes to the unlimited multiplier progression, making the cascading system more impactful during the bonus round than in regular play.
Mystery Kong Feature
Kong’s primary intervention during base gameplay involves hurling golden barrels onto the reels, with up to 100 mystery symbols added in a single trigger. All visible barrel symbols transform into matching symbols, potentially creating substantial wins when high-value symbols are revealed. The feature activates randomly after losing spins, providing occasional relief during dry base game sequences though frequency remains unpredictable.
Return of Kong Free Spins
Landing four scatter symbols spelling K-O-N-G across the six main reels triggers 12 initial free spins. Additional scatters during the bonus round award 5 extra spins each, whilst collecting three crown symbols on the horizontal reel grants 2 additional spins. The free spins mode introduces two mechanics absent from base gameplay: an unlimited multiplier and the Golden Monkeys metre.
Unlimited Multiplier System
Each winning cascade increases the active multiplier by 1x with no maximum limit. Unlike many Megaways slots that cap multipliers at 20x or 50x, Return of Kong’s multiplier can theoretically reach any value provided wins continue. This unlimited progression is central to the game’s 50,000x maximum win potential, as extended bonus rounds with consistent cascades can build multipliers into triple digits.
Golden Monkeys Metre
Golden monkey trophy symbols appear on the horizontal reel above the main grid. Collecting three trophies fills the metre displayed on the left side of the screen, triggering two outcomes: +2 free spins are awarded, and the minimum guaranteed Megaways for all remaining spins increases. The progression follows these tiers: 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000, and finally the maximum 117,649 Megaways.
Reaching the maximum tier ensures every remaining spin operates with all reels at 7 symbols each, maximising win potential for the remainder of the bonus. The system adds a progression element often absent in pure Megaways implementations, though filling the metre to maximum requires either an extended bonus round or fortunate trophy placement on the horizontal reel.
Bonus Buy & Ante Bet
Players can bypass base gameplay entirely by purchasing direct access to free spins. The standard bonus buy costs 100x the total bet, triggering the free spins round at the game’s standard 96.03% RTP. Alternatively, a mystery bonus buy at 150x the total bet offers a 97% RTP variant with adjusted mechanics. Jurisdictions where bonus buy features are prohibited will not display these options.
Our Honest Verdict
Blueprint Gaming’s decision to evolve Kong from a traditional slot format into the Megaways framework proves successful, though the game’s appeal is heavily weighted towards bonus round performance rather than base game entertainment. The unlimited multiplier during free spins stands out as the primary differentiator, positioning Return of Kong Megaways above competitors with capped multiplier systems. Paired with the progressive Megaways increases from the Golden Monkeys metre, the bonus round offers genuine escalation rather than static free spins.
The base game, however, won’t satisfy players seeking consistent engagement. Mystery Kong appearances provide occasional intervention, but the feature’s random activation and unpredictable frequency mean extended periods can pass without significant wins. This positions the game firmly for those willing to endure volatile base gameplay in pursuit of high-potential bonus rounds. Medium to high volatility is accurately assessed, with the bonus round frequency determining whether sessions extend or deplete rapidly.
Compared to the original King Kong Cash’s fixed payline structure, this Megaways variant offers substantially greater win potential at the cost of steadier base game returns. The 50,000x maximum win aligns with Blueprint’s more aggressive offerings, though it falls short of the 100,000x+ potential seen in some competitors. The 96.03% RTP sits at industry standard, with the bonus buy options offering marginal RTP increases for those willing to pay the premium.
The Kong series has maintained popularity since 2016, and Return of Kong Megaways successfully translates that brand recognition into a modern mechanical framework. It will appeal to players familiar with Blueprint’s style alongside those seeking Megaways implementations with progressive bonus mechanics. High volatility chasers will find the unlimited multiplier and 50,000x potential sufficient, though those preferring frequent smaller wins or engaging base gameplay should look to lower variance alternatives.
Return of Kong Megaways FAQs
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What is the RTP of Return of Kong Megaways?
Return of Kong Megaways operates at 96.03% RTP for standard play. The mystery bonus buy variant offers 97% RTP when purchasing free spins for 150x total bet, though this option isn’t available in all jurisdictions. -
What is the maximum win on Return of Kong Megaways?
The maximum win is 50,000x your total stake. This potential is reached through the combination of the unlimited multiplier system during free spins and maximum Megaways configuration when the Golden Monkeys metre is fully progressed. -
Does Return of Kong Megaways have free spins?
Yes. Landing four scatter symbols spelling K-O-N-G triggers 12 initial free spins. During the bonus round, an unlimited multiplier increases by 1x with each winning cascade, and collecting golden monkey trophies awards additional spins whilst increasing the minimum guaranteed Megaways. -
Can I play Return of Kong Megaways on mobile?
Yes. Return of Kong Megaways is built using HTML5 technology, making it compatible with iOS and Android devices including iPhones, iPads, and Android smartphones or tablets. No separate app download is required as the game runs directly through mobile browsers. -
Does Return of Kong Megaways have a bonus buy feature?
Yes, where legally permitted. A standard bonus buy costs 100x your total bet and triggers free spins at 96.03% RTP. A mystery bonus buy at 150x total bet offers 97% RTP with adjusted mechanics. Bonus buy options aren’t available in jurisdictions where such features are restricted, including the UK. -
What volatility is Return of Kong Megaways?
Return of Kong Megaways is rated as medium to high volatility. This means wins occur less frequently than low volatility slots, but potential payouts are more substantial. The game suits players with sufficient bankroll to weather dry spells in pursuit of high-value bonus rounds. -
Is there an unlimited multiplier in Return of Kong Megaways?
Yes. During free spins, each winning cascade increases the active multiplier by 1x with no maximum limit. Unlike many Megaways slots that cap multipliers at 20x or 50x, Return of Kong’s multiplier can theoretically reach any value, which is central to achieving the 50,000x maximum win.
