Safari Gold Megaways Slot Review
Blueprint Gaming are well known for delivering engaging slot experiences where the base game remains compelling rather than serving merely as a vehicle to the bonus round. Safari Gold Megaways continues this design philosophy, combining the developer’s established strengths with the mechanics of Big Time Gaming’s Megaways system. Released in September 2019, this African safari-themed release demonstrates how a strong thematic foundation pairs with accessible mechanics to create a title suited to both Megaways newcomers and experienced players alike.
Base Game & Features
Safari Gold Megaways operates on a 6-reel grid with between 2 and 7 rows per reel, creating up to 117,649 ways to win with each spin. The variable reel heights characteristic of Megaways mechanics mean that win potential fluctuates across every rotation, maintaining engagement throughout base gameplay rather than relegating volatility purely to bonus features.
The symbol set draws from the African safari theme effectively: card values (9 through Ace) occupy the lower-value positions, whilst leopards, buffaloes, elephants, and lions represent increasingly valuable combinations. The lion symbol delivers 50x stake for six on the reels, positioning it as the second-highest payer. Wild symbols present as a sunset scene and substitute for all symbols except scatters, maintaining standard gameplay rhythm without introducing unnecessary complexity.
Cascading Reels & Mystery Symbols
The most distinctive base game feature operates through cascading reels, where winning symbols disappear and are replaced by new symbols from above. Critically, each cascade applies a +1x multiplier to winning combinations, allowing multipliers to build progressively during successful sequences. This mechanic creates genuine excitement during base gameplay; whilst individual spins may deliver modest wins, a strong cascade sequence can compound these into meaningful payouts before the free spins even activate.
Complementing the cascades is a mystery symbol featuring the lion, which appears randomly during base game spins and transforms into matching symbols. This adds an element of unpredictability that prevents the Megaways mechanic from feeling entirely mechanical, keeping players engaged during those inevitable drought periods between feature triggers.
Bonus Features & Free Spins
The free spins bonus activates when 4 or more scatter symbols land, awarding between 5 and 15 free spins determined by a bonus wheel that displays during the trigger. Where Safari Gold Megaways distinguishes itself is through the interaction between cascades and the bonus round: the multiplier system persists throughout free spins without resetting between individual spins, allowing multipliers to grow substantially across a successful spin sequence.
The potential to retrigger is genuine rather than theoretical. Landing 3 or more scatters during free spins awards an additional 5 to 10 spins, extending sessions where the cascades are activating consistently. Given that high volatility often means long stretches between bonus triggers, this retrigger functionality adds meaningful strategy to bankroll management.
Bonus Buy Feature
Blueprint Gaming offer two bonus buy options, positioning the feature as optional rather than necessary. The standard Bonus Buy costs 100x stake, spinning the wheel to determine free spins (5-15) and a starting multiplier (1x to 10x). Alternatively, the Megaways Wheel costs only 20x stake, allowing players to spin for up to 10 free spins. Both options increase the base RTP from 96.5% to 97%, a modest bump reflecting the convenience of immediate bonus access rather than a significant strategic advantage. This dual-option approach accommodates different risk tolerances – cautious players can trigger the wheel affordably whilst those chasing the fuller feature can pay for guaranteed spins.
Our Honest Verdict
Rating: 7.5/10
Safari Gold Megaways delivers a competent Megaways execution that executes its core mechanics well without pursuing innovation for its own sake. The cascading multiplier system genuinely enhances both base game and bonus play – this isn’t a title where the bonus round overshadows everything preceding it. For players new to Megaways, the approachable design and pleasant safari aesthetic provide an ideal entry point, whilst those familiar with the mechanic will appreciate the restrained approach to volatility.
The medium-to-high volatility positioning sits comfortably between casual play and high-variance chasing. The 50,000x maximum win potential is legitimate and positions the game within the aspirational category, though the base game pacing means sequences between feature triggers can extend for standard-volatility sessions. Players seeking reliable, frequent wins should likely explore lower-volatility alternatives. Conversely, those accustomed to 100,000x+ potential from alternative Megaways titles won’t find Safari Gold pushing particularly aggressive boundaries.
The bonus buy features are genuinely useful rather than predatory pricing – the option to trigger features affordably respects player agency rather than manufacturing artificial urgency. Blueprint’s design sensibility shows throughout: this is a game that acknowledges what works rather than chasing every trend.
Safari Gold Megaways FAQs
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What is the RTP of Safari Gold Megaways?
The base RTP sits at 96.50%, though this increases to 97% when using either bonus buy option (Standard Bonus Buy at 100x stake or Megaways Wheel at 20x stake). This modest RTP bump reflects the convenience factor of purchasing access to bonus features. -
What is the maximum win potential in Safari Gold Megaways?
Safari Gold Megaways features a maximum win potential of 50,000x your stake. This ceiling is achievable through the combined effect of cascading multipliers during free spins, where the unlimited multiplier system means theoretically higher wins remain possible under ideal circumstances, though this represents the documented maximum. -
How volatile is Safari Gold Megaways?
Safari Gold Megaways operates at medium-to-high volatility, meaning wins are less frequent but potentially more substantial when they occur. This volatility level suits players seeking bigger wins with elevated risk profiles, though those accustomed to casual base game action may experience periods of slower returns. -
What are the main features in Safari Gold Megaways?
The game’s signature features include cascading reels (where winning symbols disappear and are replaced, with multipliers increasing by 1x per cascade), mystery symbols (lion icons that transform to matching symbols), free spins with unlimited cascading multipliers, and two bonus buy options for immediate feature access. -
How do I trigger the free spins bonus in Safari Gold Megaways?
Free spins are triggered by landing 4 or more scatter symbols during base play, which displays a bonus wheel determining your spins (5-15) and starting multiplier. Alternatively, you can pay 100x stake (Standard Bonus Buy) or 20x stake (Megaways Wheel) to access the feature immediately. -
What are the bonus buy options in Safari Gold Megaways?
There are two options: Standard Bonus Buy at 100x stake grants one spin on the bonus wheel with 5-15 free spins and a starting multiplier of 1x to 10x; Megaways Wheel at 20x stake allows you to win up to 10 free spins. Both increase RTP from 96.5% to 97%. -
What is the Megaways mechanic in Safari Gold Megaways?
Safari Gold Megaways features 6 reels with between 2-7 symbols each, creating up to 117,649 different ways to win. The reel height varies with every spin, meaning win lines change constantly. Combined with cascading reels and building multipliers, this creates substantial variance in both frequency and size of wins. -
Can I play Safari Gold Megaways on mobile devices?
Yes, Safari Gold Megaways is fully mobile-compatible on both iOS and Android-powered smartphones and tablets. The gameplay experience mirrors desktop play precisely, allowing seamless transitions between devices without feature loss or mechanical compromise.
