Animals Strike

Bonus Features Overview

Understanding the Core Gameplay of Animals Strike

Animals Strike presents a multi-layered gameplay experience that builds excitement with each spin. The foundation is a 6-reel setup, but the dynamic nature of the grid and its associated mechanics set it apart.

The Playing Field: Reels, Rows, and Ways to Win

Initially, players encounter a 6-reel, 3-row (6×3) grid, offering 729 ways to win. However, this is merely the starting point. Successful cascades unlock additional rows concealed by “Section Blockers” beneath the main grid. In the base game, the grid can expand up to 6×5. During the Free Spins bonus round, a sixth row is unlocked, allowing for a full 6×6 grid. This expansion dramatically increases the ways to win, potentially reaching a substantial 46,656 active pay ways, transforming the payout landscape.

Cascading Wins: The Engine of Action

The cascading wins mechanic is central to the action in Animals Strike. When a winning combination lands, the participating symbols are removed from the reels. Existing symbols above them drop down to fill the vacated spaces, and new symbols fall from the top to complete the grid. If these new arrangements form further winning combinations, the process repeats. This chain reaction continues until no new wins are formed, all within a single paid spin. Each cascade is not just an opportunity for more wins but is also key to unlocking the grid.

Section Blockers and Grid Unlock Mechanism

Beneath the primary 6×3 reel area lie two additional rows, initially obscured by Section Blockers. In the base game, four such sections can be unlocked, and two more become available in the bonus round. Each cascade resulting from a winning spin unlocks one of these blocked sections, systematically from right to left and then top to bottom. These Section Blockers are not just barriers; they often contain immediate rewards. Unlocking a section can grant a multiplier value that contributes to the Global Multiplier or trigger a High Symbol Upgrade, adding instant value to the ongoing spin sequence.

Key Symbols and Payouts

The symbols in Animals Strike are a blend of traditional slot icons and thematic animal figures, each playing a role in the “Jogo do Bicho” inspired narrative.

Low-Paying Symbols: The Foundation

The lower end of the paytable is represented by brightly colored, stylized card ranks: 9, 10, Jack (J), Queen (Q), King (K), and Ace (A). These symbols appear more frequently, providing smaller, more regular wins that help maintain momentum and fuel the cascading win mechanic, which is crucial for unlocking the grid’s full potential and triggering features.

High-Paying Animal Symbols: The Stars of Jogo do Bicho

The high-paying symbols are the six animals, each rendered with a distinct, characterful art style that reflects the game’s Brazilian theme. In ascending order of typical value, these are the Coelho (Rabbit), Burro (Donkey), Jacaré (Crocodile), Touro (Bull), Tigre (Tiger), and the Leão (Lion). These symbols are central to achieving larger payouts and are the targets for the High Symbol Upgrade feature, where their presence becomes even more impactful. Their connection to “Jogo do Bicho” adds a layer of cultural flavor.

Scatter Symbol: Your Key to Free Spins

The key to unlocking the main bonus feature, the Free Spins round, is the Scatter symbol, depicted as a pair of gleaming white Dice. Landing three or more of these Dice symbols anywhere on the reels during a base game spin will trigger the much-anticipated Free Spins bonus, transporting players to a round with enhanced winning possibilities. The number of Scatters often influences the initial number of free spins awarded.

Deep Dive into Animals Strike Special Features

Animals Strike is rich with interconnected special features that create a deeply engaging and potentially very rewarding slot experience. These elements work in synergy, especially during the coveted Free Spins round.

Global Multiplier: Boosting Your Wins

Every spin in Animals Strike begins with a x1 Global Multiplier. This multiplier increases when Section Blockers revealing multiplier values are unlocked. For instance, a Section Blocker might reveal a “+2” or “+5”, which is then added to the current Global Multiplier. In the base game, this Global Multiplier resets back to x1 with each new paid spin. However, its behavior changes significantly in the Free Spins bonus round: the Global Multiplier becomes persistent, meaning it does not reset between free spins and can only grow, leading to substantially amplified wins as the bonus progresses. Section Blockers in the base game can offer multipliers up to +20, while in the bonus game, these can go as high as +25.

High Symbol Upgrade: Refining the Reels

The High Symbol Upgrade feature is a potent mechanic designed to increase the chances of landing high-value animal symbol combinations. This feature can be triggered in two ways: randomly at the beginning of any spin (upgrading 1 to 5 high symbols at once) or by unlocking a Section Blocker that contains a Symbol Upgrade reward. When an upgrade occurs, the lowest-value high symbol currently active on the reels is removed from play for that spin sequence (or for the duration of the bonus round if triggered there). This process continues, removing high symbols in ascending order of their value. This is visually tracked on the “High Symbols Bar” above the reels. Like the Global Multiplier, High Symbol Upgrades reset in the base game but are persistent throughout the Free Spins bonus round, meaning only the most valuable animal symbols might remain active towards the end of a lucrative bonus.

The Bonus Round: Free Spins Unleashed

Landing 3, 4, 5, or 6 Dice Scatter symbols triggers the Free Spins bonus, awarding an initial 6, 9, 12, or 15 free spins, respectively. The bonus round benefits from a crucial enhancement: the sixth row of the grid is unlocked, allowing the reels to expand to a full 6×6 configuration. Most importantly, both the Global Multiplier and any High Symbol Upgrades active at the point of triggering, or accumulated during the bonus, are persistent. They do not reset between spins, creating an escalating potential for massive wins. Furthermore, each time the grid is fully unlocked to its 6×6 size during the free spins, an additional +2 free spins are awarded, extending the feature.

Gamble Wheel: Risk for More Rewards

Upon triggering the Free Spins, but before the round commences, players are presented with the Gamble Wheel. This offers a chance to increase the number of awarded free spins. For example, starting with 6 free spins, a successful first gamble might increase this to 9, and a subsequent successful gamble could take it to 12. The wheel also features a special “golden field” segment which, if landed on during the second gamble, can award the maximum of 15 free spins. However, this is a true gamble: an unsuccessful spin on the wheel means the player forfeits the entire Free Spins round and is returned to the base game. Players always have the option to “Take” their current number of spins and proceed directly to the bonus round without gambling.

Xpress Bonus Buy Options (for Demo Exploration)

For players who wish to experience specific features directly, especially in a demo play context, Animals Strike offers the Xpress Bonus Buy. This provides several options:

• Loaded Up (5x bet): Ensures all Section Blockers have rewards for the next spin.
• Gamble Wheel (60x bet): Directly triggers the Gamble Wheel feature, offering a chance to win up to 15 free spins.
• Bonus (60x bet): Awards 6 free spins directly.
• Bonus Max (500x bet): Awards the maximum of 15 free spins directly.

These options allow for targeted exploration of the game’s most exciting elements.

Theme, Graphics, and Sound Design

AvatarUX has crafted an intriguing thematic blend in Animals Strike, combining elements that are not commonly seen together in the slot world, creating a distinct atmosphere.

Jogo do Bicho Meets Tropical Paradise: The Unique Theme

The game’s premise is inspired by “Jogo do Bicho,” a traditional Brazilian animal lottery game where numbers are associated with different animals. Animals Strike translates this concept into a slot format, setting it against the backdrop of a sun-drenched tropical beach bar. Palm trees, a rustic wooden bar structure, and a distant ocean view create a relaxed, inviting scene. This contrasts intriguingly with the more intense, sharply drawn animal symbols that dominate the reels, hinting at the underlying thrill of the gamble. The cultural nod to Jogo do Bicho provides a layer of depth beyond a simple animal or beach theme.

Visual Presentation and Animations

The graphics in Animals Strike are crisp, modern, and colorful. The animal symbols – Lion, Tiger, Bull, Crocodile, Donkey, and Rabbit – are depicted in a detailed, somewhat stylized manner that gives them a strong presence on the reels. Animations are smooth, particularly during cascading wins, where symbols explode or vanish satisfyingly. The unlocking of Section Blockers and the expansion of the grid are visually clear and add to the dynamic feel. Win celebrations, especially for larger animal symbol combinations (e.g., “TIGRE WIN” or “ÁGUIA WIN” seen in previews, though Águia – Eagle – isn’t a listed payable symbol, perhaps it’s a thematic graphic for big wins or a specific animal in Jogo do Bicho context, so the actual game uses its specific animals like Coelho), are energetic with showers of coins, enhancing the excitement.

Soundtrack and Audio Effects

The auditory experience complements the visual theme. A “sultry” and somewhat laid-back, Latin-infused musical score plays in the background, fitting the beach bar setting. This music can pick up in tempo and intensity during bonus features or significant wins. Sound effects are well-integrated: the clatter of cascading symbols, the distinct sounds for unlocking sections, multiplier increases, and the jingle of payouts all contribute to an immersive gameplay environment without being overwhelming. The audio cues effectively highlight important game events.

Technical Details: RTP, Volatility, and Max Win

Understanding the technical underpinnings of Animals Strike is key for players to gauge its playstyle and potential.

The primary Return to Player (RTP) for Animals Strike is stated as 96%. However, it’s worth noting that AvatarUX, like many providers, may offer versions with slightly lower RTPs (such as 94.02% or 90.48%) depending on the market or casino operator’s configuration. The 96% figure represents a fairly standard and competitive theoretical return in the current online slot market.

Animals Strike is characterized by High Volatility. This means that while wins might be less frequent compared to low or medium volatility slots, there is a greater potential for larger payouts in shorter periods, especially during the bonus features where persistent multipliers and symbol upgrades can significantly compound winnings. This high-risk, high-reward profile appeals to players seeking substantial win potential.

The maximum win potential in Animals Strike is capped at an impressive 10,000 times the player’s bet. Achieving this typically involves an exceptionally fortunate run in the Free Spins bonus round, with significant grid expansion, high symbol upgrades, and a substantially increased global multiplier.

How to Play Animals Strike Demo on Ispinix

Playing the Animals Strike demo on Ispinix.com is an excellent way to familiarize yourself with its unique mechanics before considering real money play. Start by setting your desired bet level using the game’s interface – typically plus and minus buttons. The main spin button initiates the reels. Look for the Autoplay function if you prefer a set number of automated spins.

Focus your demo play on understanding how the cascading wins trigger the Section Blocker unlocks and observe the types of rewards they offer. Pay close attention to how the Global Multiplier accumulates and how High Symbol Upgrades affect the reels. Actively try to trigger the Free Spins round to see the persistent features in action. When the Gamble Wheel appears, test it to understand the risk-reward dynamic. Utilize the Xpress Bonus Buy options (if available in the demo) to specifically explore the “Loaded Up” feature or jump straight into different Free Spins scenarios. This hands-on experience is invaluable for grasping the game’s flow and the interplay of its features.

Animals Strike Compared to Other Slots

Animals Strike carves its own niche, but comparisons can illuminate its unique qualities and position within the broader slot landscape.

Comparison with Other AvatarUX Titles

AvatarUX is known for its innovative mechanics, most famously the PopWins™ series (e.g., CherryPop™, HippoPop™). While Animals Strike isn’t explicitly a PopWins™ game, it shares that spirit of dynamic reel behavior and feature accumulation. PopWins™ games typically involve symbols popping and being replaced by two, expanding the reel height. Animals Strike achieves grid expansion differently, through unlocking fixed lower sections via cascades. Both approaches emphasize a building excitement and growing ways-to-win. However, Animals Strike’s focus on persistent Global Multipliers and High Symbol Upgrades during free spins, combined with the Jogo do Bicho theme, gives it a distinct identity even within the inventive AvatarUX portfolio. The Gamble Wheel is also a more prominent pre-bonus feature here than in many PopWins titles.

Comparison with Slots of Similar Theme/Mechanics

Thematically, slots inspired by “Jogo do Bicho” are relatively rare, giving Animals Strike an edge. Most animal-themed slots opt for more generic safari or jungle settings. Compared to other cascading reel slots like NetEnt’s Gonzo’s Quest or Big Time Gaming’s Megaways titles (which often feature cascades), Animals Strike differentiates itself with its specific Section Blocker unlock system and the way High Symbol Upgrades are integrated and made persistent. While Megaways slots offer vast ways-to-win through dynamic reel heights, Animals Strike’s expansion is more structured but equally impactful due to the linked rewards. A newer 2024 release, Tropical Tiki by Pragmatic Play, offers a tropical vibe and tumbling reels with progressive features, but Animals Strike’s blend of Brazilian culture, persistent upgrades, and the Gamble Wheel provides a different flavor of excitement. Another game from 2024 with expanding elements could be Wilderland 2 by NetEnt, though its fantasy theme and walking wild mechanics differ significantly.

Conclusion: Our Verdict on Animals Strike

Animals Strike by AvatarUX is a thoughtfully designed and engaging online slot that successfully blends a unique cultural theme with a suite of innovative and interconnected gameplay mechanics. The Jogo do Bicho inspiration, set against a vibrant beach bar, offers a refreshing change from more common slot themes. The core gameplay, driven by cascading wins that unlock grid sections and award multipliers or symbol upgrades, is inherently dynamic. This escalates significantly in the Free Spins bonus round, where the persistence of the Global Multiplier and High Symbol Upgrades, coupled with the potential for a 6×6 grid, creates truly exciting winning prospects.

The high volatility and 10,000x maximum win potential will undoubtedly appeal to players seeking significant payouts, though it requires patience and an acceptance of potentially drier spells in the base game. The Gamble Wheel is a welcome addition for those who enjoy an extra layer of risk for greater reward, while the Xpress options provide a shortcut to the action for demo exploration. While the absence of a traditional Wild symbol and the potential initial complexity might be minor drawbacks for some, the overall package is compelling.

Based on its inventive features, engaging theme, and strong win potential, I would recommend Animals Strike, particularly for experienced slot players who appreciate layered mechanics and high-volatility action. It’s a game that rewards understanding its systems and offers a satisfying depth that goes beyond simple reel-spinning. Playing the Animals Strike demo on Ispinix.com is an excellent way to appreciate its nuances firsthand.

Pros and Cons of Playing Animals Strike