Game Information
Dragon Shard from Microgaming: a review of the slot with mystical dragons and dual-payline payouts
Introduction
Dragon Shard — this is an exciting video slot from Stormcraft Studios, released under the aegis of Microgaming in May 2019. The game transports you to a fantastic world where fire and ice collide, with mysterious dragon symbols playing a key role.
Key features of the Dragon Shard slot
- Mechanics of Mystery Symbols (mysterious symbols), which can transform into identical symbols.
- Unique Win Booster™ feature, activating payouts in both directions.
- Free spins with guaranteed Mystery Reels.
- Medium volatility and high RTP (up to 96.77%).
- Maximum win of 800x your bet.
Design and atmosphere
Dragon Shard offers players a visually rich and atmospheric game. The reels are set against the backdrop of an ancient, overgrown temple, where fiery and icy energies merge. The graphics are rendered in high quality, characteristic of Stormcraft Studios, with detailed symbols depicting Fiery Coral, Icy Coral, elves, and dragons. The sound accompaniment enhances the picture: epic orchestral music and sound effects during wins create a sense of real adventure in a world of magic and elements.
Characteristics and symbols
Slot parameters table for Dragon Shard
| Parameter | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Developer | Stormcraft Studios / Microgaming |
| Release date | May 29, 2019 |
| Barabany / Linii | 5 reels / 40 base lines (60 with Win Booster) |
| Rate range | From €0.20 to €40 per spin |
| Max. Wins | 800x your bet |
| RTP (Return to Player) | 96.77% |
| Volatility | Average |
Payouts for combinations of 5 symbols (at maximum bet per line)
- Fiery Coral / Icy Coral: 8x your bet.
- Forest Elf / Dark Elf: 3x your bet.
- Symbol A / K: 2x your bet.
- Symbol Q / J / 10: 1x your bet.
- Wild (logo of Dragon Shard): 20x your bet.
- Scatter (Dragon Eye): 100x your bet for 5 pcs. on any line.
Bonus functions and unique mechanics
The main feature of Dragon Shard — this is its unique gaming mechanics.
- Win Booster™: this is not just a bonus, but an optional side bet. When activated, the number of winning lines increases from 40 to 60, as the game starts paying out wins not only left to right, but also right to left. Additionally, more Mystery Symbols appear on the reels.
- Mystery Symbols: these special symbols can appear anywhere on reels 2, 3, and 4. After the completion of the main spin, all Mystery Symbols transform into one and the same random symbol (except for Scatter), which significantly increases the chances of a big win.
- Non-paying spins: to activate the bonus round, you need to collect three or more Scatter symbols (Dragon Eye). This awards 10 non-paying spins. During the free spins, reels 2, 3, and 4 become fully covered with Mystery Symbols on each spin, guaranteeing potentially huge wins.
The slot lacks a classic gamble feature.
Expert opinions and recommendations
Dragon Shard — this is a slot for those who value premium gameplay and decent, but moderate payouts, characteristic for medium volatility. The key to success — understanding the mechanics of Mystery Symbols.
Recommendations
- Use Win Booster™: if your bankroll allows, activating this feature significantly increases the frequency of wins and the overall dynamics of the game.
- Focus on the free spins: the main potential of the slot unfolds in the bonus round. Strive to trigger the activation of non-paying spins, as guaranteed Mystery Reels on three central reels create ideal conditions for big combinations.
- Manage your bankroll: regardless of the medium volatility, always set limits for the session to avoid quick loss of deposit.
Mathematical model
- The Dragon Shard slot has medium volatility, which balances the frequency and size of wins. The player can expect regular small and medium payouts, while big wins are possible, especially during bonus spins.
- RTP (Return to Player) is stated at 96.77%, which is above the average for gaming machines and favorably distinguishes it from many competitors.
Compared to analogs
- Immortal Romance (Microgaming): higher volatility, complex bonus system with four different modes, but lower RTP (96.86%).
- Thunderstruck II (Microgaming): medium/high volatility, famous bonus Great Hall of Spins, RTP 96.65%.
- Temple of Wealth (Red Tiger): similar theme, medium volatility, but with a different set of bonuses (Money Symbol, Jackpot King), RTP 95.72%.
Mobile version
Dragon Shard is fully adapted for play on smartphones and tablets under iOS and Android management. The game uses HTML5 technology, ensuring smooth operation and high-quality graphics on any mobile device without the need to download additional applications. All features, including Win Booster™ and non-paying spins, are available in the mobile version in full volume.
Pros and cons
Pros
- High RTP (96.77%).
- Unique and profitable mechanics of Win Booster™.
- Guaranteed Mystery Symbols during free spins.
- Beautiful design and atmospheric sound accompaniment.
- Excellent mobile adaptation.
- Medium volatility for a comfortable game.
Cons
- The maximum win (800x) can be shown as hidden compared to some slots with high volatility.
- Absence of a progressive jackpot.
- No classic risk-game for doubling the win.
Locking
Dragon Shard — this is a quality and premium slot from Microgaming and Stormcraft Studios, which offers a fresh take on standard mechanics thanks to the Win Booster™ and Mystery Symbols features. It is ideal for players who prefer stable gameplay with good RTP and interesting bonus opportunities, rather than a gambling chase for gigantic jackpots.
Overall rating: 8.5/10
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the RTP of the Dragon Shard slot?
- The theoretical return to player (RTP) is 96.77%.
Are there free spins in Dragon Shard?
- Yes, with three or more Scatter symbols (Dragon Eye) you receive 10 free spins, during which reels 2, 3, and 4 are fully covered with Mystery Symbols.
What is the Win Booster™ feature?
- This is an optional side bet that activates payouts in both directions (left to right and right to left), increasing the number of lines up to 60, and adds more Mystery Symbols to the reels.
Can you play Dragon Shard on mobile?
- Yes, the slot is fully adapted for mobile devices and works on all modern smartphones and tablets through the browser.
What is the maximum win possible in Dragon Shard?
- The maximum win is 800x your total bet per spin.