Starburst by Netent is one of those online slots that has become synonymous with the iGaming world. I played it and discovered why, thanks to its win-both-ways setup, expanding wilds and exciting RTP rate. Of course, some may find the simplicity of the game not to their liking, but overall, the Starburst slot provides thrills aplenty.
Should you play Starburst?
Yes, it is the outright answer to this question. Starburst is one of the original online slots that made it big, not just because of the theme and execution of such by developer Netent. In fact, as I discovered, the game features one or two specialities that were extremely innovative for its time of release. That includes the expanding wild symbols covering reels and the win-both-ways function, effectively doubling up on ways to win.
I like the fact that it’s a low-volatility slot, too. This does mean lower payouts occur when spinning the reels, but they happen more frequently. Combine that with the stunning graphics, animations, and base soundtrack, and you’ve got something special.
- I love the win-both-ways function of the slot.
- Netent executed the base theme perfectly.
- The slot comes with a 96.09% RTP rate.
- The maximum win possible is 500x; it’s quite low.
- It would be perfect for me if it featured free spins.
Playing Starburst online for the first time
When you load Starburst up for the first time, you must choose your preferred bet. This is possible by adjusting the game’s coin value and bet level. The first can be found to the right of the “Max Bet” button. It offers a base of 1p and up to £1 as a coin value. You can then slide the bet level between 1 and 10 with the box on the left of the “Auto Play” button. This results in a betting range between 10p and £100 per spin.
When you have finished moving those figures around, you can click on the central button of the game to spin the reels. A result is then produced, and as long as three matching symbols appear on a payline from the leftmost reel to the right or the rightmost reel to the left, you win. You can view the slot’s paytable by clicking the “i” button.
Experiencing some space-age specials
So, the special features included in Starburst may look quite average compared to some games released today. Let’s not forget that this game launched in 2013, though. Back then, the game’s specialities were groundbreaking. Starburst Wilds can appear on the central three reels and substitute for all basic symbols. If this does occur, the symbols expand across their respective reels, triggering a re-spin afterward.
Of course, the win-both-ways function is also a specialty of the slot. Thus, while Starburst is advertised as having 10 paylines, it has 20 if you think about this happening from both directions.
A look at the slot’s technical details
I’m always one for viewing the technical makeup of a game before playing it. If you are, too, you’ll be pleased to see that Starburst has a 96.09% RTP rate. This informs you how much you can expect to return from a slot in winnings over time. Anything above 96% is considered excellent.
It’s also the case that this slot is a low-volatility game. Thus, it will provide payouts more regularly, although these will be of a lower value in general. You also stand to win up to 500x your bet from playing Starburst. That’s not a huge win possibility, especially by today’s standards. Yet, it’s quite decent for a low volatility slot from 2013.
A final few thoughts on Starburst
There is something quite endearing about playing an online slot from years ago. Especially when it’s as visually enjoyable as Starburst by Netent. The game has one or two features included, but it isn’t overflowing with them. Plus, the low volatility level means you generally experience more frequent wins.
I also love the expanding wilds, which can show up on all three central reels and produce up to three respins. By today’s standards, the game is nothing groundbreaking. Yet it does bring its level of entertainment. Why else would it be considered as popular as it is all these years later?
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