Few slots have reached the legendary status of Book of Dead by Play’n GO. Since its release on January 14, 2016, this game has become one of the most popular online slots in the world, consistently ranking among the top three most-played titles.
At its core, Book of Dead combines classic slot mechanics with an adventurous storyline, led by the charismatic explorer Rich Wilde. Following his previous quests in Pearls of India and Aztec Idols, Wilde now ventures into the sands of Ancient Egypt, uncovering secrets between life and death as he searches for mythical treasures hidden within the Book of Dead.
Play the Book of Dead slot demo by Play’n Go here
Game Information
Game Overview – Specs at a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Release Date | 14th January 2016 |
| Developer | Play’n GO |
| Type | Video Slot |
| Reels | 5×3 |
| Paylines | 10 |
| RTP Range | 84.18% – 96.21% |
| Volatility | High |
| Bet Range | 0.10 – 100 |
| Max Win | Up to 5,000x stake |
The Storyline – Rich Wilde’s Greatest Adventure
The narrative backdrop is part of the slot’s magic. Book of Dead immerses players in Ancient Egyptian mythology, where the titular book acts as both a Scatter and Wild symbol. Rich Wilde, Play’n GO’s answer to Indiana Jones, is your guide through crypts, tombs, and hidden chambers where unimaginable treasures may await.
This story-driven design adds a cinematic layer of engagement, making Book of Dead more than just a slot—it feels like an adventure.
Features and Gameplay Mechanics
Expanding Symbol Feature
The central mechanic of Book of Dead is the Special Expanding Symbol. When three or more Scatter symbols (the Book) appear, players unlock 10 Free Spins.
Before Free Spins begin, a random symbol is selected to become the Expanding Symbol. During the round, this symbol can expand to cover entire reels, massively increasing winning potential. The best part? These symbols don’t need to be adjacent—they just need to appear on active paylines to pay out.
Free Spins and Retriggers
Landing three or more Scatters during Free Spins retriggers the feature, awarding another 10 spins. This can happen multiple times, leading to epic bonus rounds with extended play and huge win opportunities.
RTP and Volatility
With an adjustable RTP range of 84.18% to 96.21%, most casinos set the game at its default 96.21%. Combined with high volatility, this means longer dry spells but the potential for massive payouts when the features align.
Symbols and Payouts
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Rich Wilde – The highest-paying symbol, awarding up to 5,000x stake for five on a payline.
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Egyptian Gods & Pharaohs – Mid-tier symbols offering solid payouts.
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Classic Card Values (10 – A) – Low-tier symbols, keeping the reels active.
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Book of Dead – Functions as both Scatter and Wild, triggering Free Spins and substituting for other symbols.
Why Book of Dead Became Iconic
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Timing & Legacy – Released when online slots were transitioning to more story-driven designs, it set a new standard.
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Perfect Balance – Easy enough for beginners, yet thrilling for seasoned slot fans.
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High Max Win – Up to 5,000x stake keeps players engaged.
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Global Popularity – Licensed in multiple jurisdictions, it’s available in most regulated markets.
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Streaming Culture – Its high volatility makes it a favorite for casino streamers on YouTube and Twitch.
What Is So Special About Book of Dead?
Book of Dead isn’t just another Egyptian-themed slot – it has become a benchmark in the iGaming industry. There are several reasons why this game continues to stand out nearly a decade after its release:
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The Perfect Balance of Simplicity and Excitement
The gameplay is easy to grasp, making it approachable for beginners, while the high volatility and expanding symbols keep even seasoned players on the edge of their seats. -
The Iconic Rich Wilde Character
Unlike many faceless slots, Book of Dead features a recognizable protagonist. Rich Wilde’s charisma and adventurous spirit have given the game a sense of personality, making it feel more like an interactive story than a simple slot. -
The Expanding Symbol Mechanic
While many “Book-style” slots exist today, Book of Dead was the one that popularized this feature. The excitement of seeing a chosen symbol expand across the reels never gets old—and it’s a mechanic that has inspired countless imitators. -
Timeless Theme with Mass Appeal
Ancient Egypt has always fascinated players, but Play’n GO elevated it by blending history, myth, and adventure into one immersive experience. -
A Slot That Sparked a Movement
After its release, Book of Dead became a blueprint for an entire subgenre of “Book slots.” Its influence on other developers is a testament to how special it really is.
In short, Book of Dead’s enduring success comes from its ability to offer both nostalgia and adrenaline, making it a slot that feels just as relevant in 2025 as it did in 2016.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
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Iconic slot with a legendary reputation
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Mobile-optimized (HTML5)
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Expanding symbol feature delivers big wins
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Free Spins can be retriggered indefinitely
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Widely available in regulated markets
Cons:
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High volatility not ideal for casual players
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Limited base game features (most action comes from Free Spins)
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RTP may vary depending on casino
Tips and Strategies for Playing Book of Dead
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Bankroll Management: Due to its high volatility, set a budget and stick to it. Wins may take time to arrive.
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Low to Mid Stakes: Many players prefer starting small, as Free Spins are the main profit driver.
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Look for High RTP Versions: Always check the RTP at your casino to ensure it’s set near the maximum 96.21%.
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Play for Entertainment: While big wins are possible, the game is designed for long-term enjoyment, not guaranteed profit.
Final Verdict – Why Book of Dead is a Must-Play Slot
Nearly a decade after its release, Book of Dead remains one of the most-played online slots worldwide. Its blend of timeless gameplay, immersive theme, and massive win potential has cemented it as a true classic.
Whether you’re a newcomer looking for a simple yet exciting slot or an experienced player chasing big multipliers, Rich Wilde’s Book of Dead is an adventure worth taking every time.
⭐ Rating: 9.5/10 – A slot legend that still sets the standard in 2025.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about Book of Dead
What is Book of Dead slot?
Book of Dead is a video slot by Play’n GO, released in 2016. It features 5 reels, 10 paylines, high volatility, and a legendary Free Spins feature with expanding symbols.
What is the RTP of Book of Dead?
The RTP of Book of Dead ranges between 84.18% and 96.21%, depending on the casino’s settings. Always check which version your casino uses.
What is the maximum win in Book of Dead?
Players can win up to 5,000x their stake, with the Rich Wilde symbol offering the highest payouts.
How do Free Spins work in Book of Dead?
Landing 3 or more Book symbols triggers 10 Free Spins. A random symbol is chosen as the Special Expanding Symbol, which can cover full reels and pay even when not adjacent. Free Spins can be retriggered indefinitely.
Is Book of Dead available on mobile?
Yes, Book of Dead is built in HTML5 and fully optimized for mobile play on both iOS and Android devices.
Why is Book of Dead so popular?
Its timeless design, exciting Free Spins with expanding symbols, and high win potential make it one of the most played and streamed slots globally.
Is Book of Dead safe and fair to play?
Yes, Book of Dead is certified in multiple regulated markets, using RNG (Random Number Generator) technology to ensure fairness.
