The Shambala casino slot is a 5-reel, 40-payline online slot game developed by EGT (Euro Games Technology). Released in 2013, this slot has been making waves among players and critics alike for its unique theme, engaging gameplay, and generous payouts. In this comprehensive review, we will delve into the world casino games of Shambala Casino and explore its various features, analyzing what makes it a standout title in the vast landscape of online slots.
Theme and Design
As the name suggests, Shambala is a mythical realm inspired by the ancient Buddhist concept of a paradise where one can attain enlightenment. The game’s designers have done an excellent job of transporting players to this mystical world through its colorful and intricate visuals. The reels are set against a stunning backdrop of lush forests, towering mountains, and serene waterfalls. Symbols include various mythological creatures such as lions, tigers, and elephants, which pay homage to the rich cultural heritage of ancient India.
The game’s layout is user-friendly, with clear and concise navigation that allows players to easily access different menus, settings, and betting options. The reels are positioned in a grid format, with each line marked by a distinctive golden border. Above the reels lies an impressive row of buttons that display various payout amounts, bonus features, and game information.
Symbols
The Shambala slot features 15 standard symbols divided into three categories: low-value, high-value, and special. Low-value symbols include playing cards from nine to Ace (represented by colorful icons with a hint of Indian flair). These pay out relatively modest sums for matching combinations.
High-value symbols are depicted as mythological creatures, each carrying significant rewards:
- Lion: 20-200 coins
- Elephant: 30-400 coins
- Tiger: 50-600 coins
The special symbol is represented by the Shambala logo. It serves multiple purposes and will be discussed in further detail below.
Payouts
With a total of 40 paylines, players have ample opportunities to create winning combinations on each spin. The game’s payout structure is straightforward: matching three or more identical symbols from left to right pays out varying amounts depending on the symbol value.
Here are some examples:
- Three low-value playing card symbols (9-10-J-Q-K-A): 5-15 coins
- Four high-value mythological creatures: 50-400 coins
Keep in mind that payout amounts increase significantly when special features or bonus rounds come into play.
Wilds and Scatters
The Shambala logo serves as both the wild symbol and scatter. This multifaceted feature offers numerous benefits:
- Substitution : Replaces any standard symbol to form winning combinations.
- Multiplier : When two or more scatters appear, multipliers are applied: 1x for one scatter, 5x for two, and 50x for three.
Scatters also activate the Free Spins feature when appearing in groups of three on any active line.
Bonus Features
The Shambala slot boasts several enticing bonus features that enhance gameplay and increase payouts:
- Free Spins : Triggered by three or more scatters (3, 4, 5). Each scatter grants a specific number of free spins:
- Three scatters: 8-12 free spins
- Four scatters: 15-20 free spins
- Five scatters: 25-30 free spins
During this feature, players can retrigger free spins by landing additional scatters.
- Expanding Wild : The Shambala logo expands to fill an entire reel when two or more wilds are present on a winning line. This greatly increases the chances of creating combinations.
RTP and Volatility
The Return-to-Player (RTP) percentage for Shambala Casino is not publicly disclosed, but we can infer it falls within the average range due to its moderate payouts and balanced volatility level. While this means players should not expect exceptionally large wins or a high frequency of small victories.
Betting Range and Max Win
Shambala allows bets ranging from $0.01 (one cent) to $1,000 per spin. This broad betting range makes it accessible to casual gamers while catering to serious enthusiasts seeking higher stakes.
The maximum win for Shambala is capped at 5,500 coins or €55,000, depending on the chosen bet size and playing currency.
Gameplay
Shambala’s gameplay experience is engaging yet easy to navigate. Players can choose from several gaming modes:
- Normal mode : Spins are executed at a standard speed without any interruptions.
- Turbo mode : Allows players to quickly spin reels while maintaining game balance and fairness.
Players can also toggle between automatic (auto) spins, allowing them to set up predefined betting limits or intervals for consecutive spins.
Mobile Play
Like many modern EGT slots, Shambala has been optimized for mobile devices. Players can enjoy the full gaming experience across Android and iOS platforms via in-browser play or by downloading dedicated casino apps that feature this game.
Player Experience
Based on community feedback and user reviews from various online forums and review websites:
- User-friendliness : The overall interface, navigation, and controls are intuitive for players of all skill levels.
- Engagement : Shambala’s bonus features and potential payouts keep gamers engaged throughout each session.
- Variety : Players praise the diverse selection of high-value symbols that provide multiple opportunities to create winning combinations.
However, some critics have expressed frustration with:
- Rarity of wins : Some players report relatively infrequent payout distributions for their bets, leading to frustration or dissatisfaction.