The Wanted Dead or Alive (not to be confused with the popular heavy metal band) is an action-packed video slot developed by WMS Gaming, a renowned online gaming software provider. This thrilling slot game takes players on an adrenaline-fueled ride through a gritty western landscape where cowboys play demo and outlaws roam free. With its roots in traditional arcade-style gameplay, Wanted Dead or Alive has managed to maintain its appeal even with the rise of modern video slots.
Design
The first thing that catches your attention when starting the game is the visually stunning backdrop. The dusty main street is bustling with life as horseback riders gallop by and buildings line up on either side of the road. Each element, from characters’ animations to environmental details like swinging saloon doors, has been meticulously crafted using WMS Gaming’s advanced graphics technology. A 5×3 reel grid serves as the foundation for the game’s winning combinations.
Symbols
The reels are populated with an array of colorful and intricately designed symbols that add depth to the narrative. These include Wild Cards (the word "WILD" emblazoned on a wanted poster), scatters, low-value symbols depicting items commonly found in the Old West like boots, bandannas, and rifles. The higher-paying symbols showcase rugged cowboys riding horses or aiming at outlaws with revolvers.
Payouts
While not spectacularly high, payouts for Wanted Dead or Alive offer decent rewards compared to similar slots on the market. Players can win between 1-100x their initial bet using standard combinations of symbols. This payout structure provides an appealing balance of risk and reward, perfect for players seeking a consistent gaming experience.
Wilds
The Wild Card is present throughout gameplay as a substitute symbol that participates in creating winning combos when paired with other icons on the reels. Additionally, it can initiate free spins by landing 3 or more Scatters across adjacent reels (henceforth referred to as "adjacent" rather than consecutive). Each reel spin features an independent set of 5 reels with each line consisting of 5 symbols.
Scatters
The Scatter icon is depicted as a sheriff’s badge. Players can activate the Free Spins Bonus round by collecting three Scatters across adjacent reels, which rewards them with an additional free game and two Wild Cards for every scatter that landed during this action-packed event.
Bonus Features
In addition to the basic gameplay mechanics mentioned earlier (Wilds & Scatters), there are a variety of bonus features hidden within this slot machine experience. These include "Free Spins," where players gain extra opportunities for winning combinations based on their betting amount and performance level achieved before entering that part of playtime. Furthermore, during certain stages in your journey through the main story line segment called "The Tilt", you will encounter obstacles which must be overcome using special powers provided within that particular event itself!