Slots with sticky and expanding Wild-symbols
Introduction
Wild symbols are the basis of most modern Pokies. They act as a "joker," replacing other signs and helping to form winning lines. However, with the development of the industry, improved options appeared: sticky (Sticky Wilds) and expanding (Expanding Wilds). These mechanics make the game unpredictable and add new opportunities for large payoffs.
Sticky Wild-symbols
Sticky Wilds remain on the drums after falling out and do not disappear for several spins.
Peculiarity: they are fixed in position, increasing the chances of repeated wins.
Where they occur: often activated in freespins, where each additional combination becomes even more valuable.
Examples of games:
Why players choose: Sticky Wilds create an accumulation effect, and with each spin, the likelihood of multi-linear combinations increases.
Expanding Wild-Symbols
Expanding Wilds grow vertically or horizontally, closing an entire reel or line.
Feature: turn one symbol into several, covering large areas of the playing field.
Where they meet: often activated as a separate function or in bonus games.
Examples of games:
Why players choose: Expanding wilds are capable of overlapping reels, creating winning lines with maximum coverage.
Comparing sticky and expanding Wild
Popularity among Australian players
In Australia, sticky and expanding Wild symbols are especially in demand in tournament games and bonus promotions, as they increase momentum and create a chance of big wins in a short period of time. Classic providers Aristocrat and Ainsworth also integrate these mechanics into new releases, making them relevant in pubs and clubs and later the online version.
Result
Slots with sticky and expanding Wild-symbols represent two different approaches to strengthening the game: the first create a stable foundation for combinations, the second - the explosive effect of one rotation. Both options are in demand both in ground machines and in online casinos, and in 2025 these are the mechanics that become key in the line of top pokies.
Wild symbols are the basis of most modern Pokies. They act as a "joker," replacing other signs and helping to form winning lines. However, with the development of the industry, improved options appeared: sticky (Sticky Wilds) and expanding (Expanding Wilds). These mechanics make the game unpredictable and add new opportunities for large payoffs.
Sticky Wild-symbols
Sticky Wilds remain on the drums after falling out and do not disappear for several spins.
Peculiarity: they are fixed in position, increasing the chances of repeated wins.
Where they occur: often activated in freespins, where each additional combination becomes even more valuable.
Examples of games:
- * Dead or Alive II (NetEnt) is the legendary slot where sticky Wild in the bonus round are able to fill the entire screen.
- * Sticky Bandits (Quickspin) - combines sticky wilds with big winning combinations.
- * Buffalo King Megaways (Pragmatic Play) - Sticky wilde mechanics make bonus spins even more profitable.
Why players choose: Sticky Wilds create an accumulation effect, and with each spin, the likelihood of multi-linear combinations increases.
Expanding Wild-Symbols
Expanding Wilds grow vertically or horizontally, closing an entire reel or line.
Feature: turn one symbol into several, covering large areas of the playing field.
Where they meet: often activated as a separate function or in bonus games.
Examples of games:
- * Book of Ra Deluxe (Novomatic) - "books" can turn into an expanding symbol and cover an entire drum.
- * Gonzo's Quest Megaways (NetEnt/Red Tiger) - expanding Wilds amplify cascading combinations.
- * Immortal Romance (Microgaming) - Wilds expanding in bonus modes have made the slot popular for a decade.
Why players choose: Expanding wilds are capable of overlapping reels, creating winning lines with maximum coverage.
Comparing sticky and expanding Wild
| Option | Sticky Wilds | Expanding Wilds |
|---|---|---|
| Effect | Snap in place for multiple spins | Cover an entire reel or line |
| Duration | Hold multiple rounds | Usually have one spin |
| Suitable for | Players who love the strategy of accumulation | Lovers of bright, sharp winnings |
Popularity among Australian players
In Australia, sticky and expanding Wild symbols are especially in demand in tournament games and bonus promotions, as they increase momentum and create a chance of big wins in a short period of time. Classic providers Aristocrat and Ainsworth also integrate these mechanics into new releases, making them relevant in pubs and clubs and later the online version.
Result
Slots with sticky and expanding Wild-symbols represent two different approaches to strengthening the game: the first create a stable foundation for combinations, the second - the explosive effect of one rotation. Both options are in demand both in ground machines and in online casinos, and in 2025 these are the mechanics that become key in the line of top pokies.
