Expanding Wilds are special Wild symbols in slot games that can grow across multiple reel positions instead of staying in one place. They can cover an entire reel, substitute for paying symbols, and trigger a respin or another feature, depending on the slot’s rules.
What Are Expanding Wilds in Slot Games?
Expanding Wilds are Wild symbols that extend across additional reel positions when specific game conditions are met. But an Expanding Wild can do more than a standard one. When its expansion conditions are met, it can occupy additional positions on the reel, increasing the number of positions where the Wild can substitute for other symbols.
However, the exact process is different for different online slot games. For instance, in the Starburst slot machine, when a Wild appears on any of reels 2, 3, or 4, it expands to cover the whole reel and gives a re-spin. But the Expanding Wild feature may appear only in certain parts of other slot games.
How Do Expanding Wilds Work?
Expanding Wilds mainly follow three basic steps –
- Step #1: The Wild lands: A selected Wild symbol appears on an eligible reel.
- Step #2: The Wild Expands: It grows to cover additional positions. Sometimes it fills the entire reel.
- Step #3: Wins are evaluated: The expanded wilds substitute for eligible symbols according to the game’s paytable.
Consider a three-row reel. If the Wild falls in the middle, it might spread across all three positions, and these can be used to form winning combinations.
What are the Differences Between Expanding Wilds and Standard Wilds?
The following are the main differences between the two.
| Feature | Standard Wilds | Expanding Wilds |
| Symbol Substitution | Substitutes for eligible paying symbols from the position where it lands. | Substitutes for eligible symbols across every position it covers after expanding. |
| Activation | Usually functions when it lands on an eligible reel or position. | May expand immediately, after contributing to a win, or when specific feature conditions are met. |
| Reel Coverage | Normally occupies a single reel position. | Can cover multiple positions and, in some slots, an entire reel. |
| Effect on Winning Combinations | Helps complete eligible combinations from one position. | Additional Wild positions may contribute to multiple eligible combinations on the same spin. |
| Respins | Can trigger a respin if specified by the game’s rules. | Some Expanding Wilds are directly linked to respins, such as the Wild feature in Starburst. |
| Bonus Feature Interaction | May appear during Free Spins or other bonus rounds. | Expansion may be restricted to, or enhanced during, Free Spins, respins, or other bonus features. |
| Guarantees a Win? | No. | No. More Wild positions can create additional opportunities, but a payout still depends on the final symbol combination and game rules. |
Slot Games That Use Expanding Wilds
A relevant example for players is Expanding Wild Leprechaun. The slot uses an Expanding Wild mechanic, with the Leprechaun Wild expanding across the reel according to the game’s feature rules.
Another popular game is Starburst, which was created by NetEnt. The Wild in this game expands across an entire reel and awards a respin. All these games help one understand why one should not assume that all Wild symbols function alike.
Do Expanding Wilds Affect RTP or Volatility?
The presence of Expanding Wilds does not necessarily mean that a slot has a higher RTP or higher volatility. These characteristics depend on the slot’s overall mathematical model, including symbol frequency, payouts, and bonus features.
As a result, two different Expanding Wild slot machines will be very different in terms of RTP value and volatility. For example, Koi Gate and Fancy Fruits may both use expanding-style Wild features, but their RTP, volatility, payouts, and bonus mechanics are determined by each game’s individual mathematical model. Players should pay attention to the particular information about the game in order to get acquainted with its RTP and volatility values.
Final Thoughts
Expanding Wilds add another layer to the standard Wild symbol by allowing it to cover additional reel positions. The feature can create more opportunities for eligible combinations. But its exact effect depends on the individual game rules and the paytable.
FAQs
What are Expanding Wilds in slot games?
An Expanding Wild is a wild symbol that grows to cover additional reel positions. It can then substitute for eligible symbols according to the game’s rules.
How do Expanding Wilds work?
When the required conditions are met, the Wild expands to cover additional reel positions. The game then evaluates winning combinations using those additional Wild positions.
Do expanding Wilds guarantee a win?
No, Expanding Wilds do not guarantee a payout. The resulting win depends on the symbols, paylines, or other winning conditions defined by the game.
Which slot games use expanding Wilds?
Slots that use Expanding Wilds include Expanding Wild Leprechaun, Starburst, and Koi Gate. Their individual respin and expansion rules are different. So the paytable should always be checked.