Game Information
Review of the gaming machine Mahjong Ways 2 from PG Soft: features, mechanics, and strategies
Introduction
Mahjong Ways 2 — this is an exciting video slot from the studio Pocket Games Soft (PG Soft), released on July 1, 2020. Being a direct continuation of the hit Mahjong Ways, the second part of the game offers improved mechanics and increased win potential.
Key features of the slot
- Unique barabans layout with an additional row of symbols on central reels.
- Mechanics of 'Golden Symbols', transforming into Wilds.
- Increasing multipliers during free spins.
- Maximum win up to x100,000 from the bet.
- High RTP at 96.95%.
Design and atmosphere
The gaming machine immerses the player in the atmosphere of classic Chinese Mahjong, but with modern 3D graphics, characteristic for PG Soft. The graphics are executed in soft, pleasant tones with detailed textures of Mahjong tiles, which look voluminous and realistic. The sound accompaniment includes traditional Asian motifs and sounds of falling chips, creating a relaxing yet exciting environment. The animations are smooth, especially during the appearance of winning combinations and activation of bonuses, which is typical for the mobile approach of the developer.
Characteristics and symbols
Slot parameters table
| Parameter | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Developer | Pocket Games Soft (PG Soft) |
| Release date | 01.07.2020 |
| Barabans / Rows | 5 barabans, layout 4-5-5-5-4 (additional row on 2, 3, 4 reels) |
| Winning ways | 2000 fixed ways (Betways) |
| Rate range | Usually from $0.03 to $125 (depends on the casino) |
| Max. Wins | x100,000 of the bet |
| RTP | 96.95% |
| Volatility | Medium |
Payouts for combinations (Top-5 symbols)
In the game, traditional Mahjong tiles are used. Payouts are calculated for combinations of 5 symbols from left to right on adjacent barabans:
- Golden Dragon (or special high symbol): The most paying symbol, giving up to 30x for a combination of 5 pieces.
- Tile: pays up to 15x for 5 symbols.
- Green tile: average payout, approximately 10x-12x.
- Red tile: payout around 8x-10x.
- Number tiles (1-5): low-paying symbols, pay from 6x to 12x depending on the nominal.
Golden versions of regular symbols can transform into Wild and participate in creating wins.
Bonus functions and unique mechanics
- Golden symbols and Wilds: the main feature of Mahjong Ways 2. Symbols on reels 2, 3, and 4 can appear in golden framing. In any win with the participation of a golden symbol, it transforms into Wild, which substitutes for all other symbols (except Scatter). This significantly increases the frequency of winning combinations.
- Cascading Reels: winning symbols disappear, freeing up space for new ones, falling from above. This allows for multiple wins on a single spin.
- Increasing multiplier: with each cascading win in the base game, the multiplier increases by +1. It resets after the end of the cascade series.
- Free Spins: activated when 3 or more Scatter symbols (Ma symbol) appear. The player receives 10 free spins. Each additional Scatter adds 2 more spins.
- During free spins, the multiplier does not reset between cascades and can grow to enormous values.
- On reels 2, 3, and 4, golden symbols appear, increasing the chance of getting Wild.
- Absence of risk-game: classic game for doubling in the slot is not, the action is done on cascading mechanics.
Expert opinions and recommendations
Mahjong Ways 2 is an evolution of the original, offering a more aggressive mechanic at the expense of frequent transformations of golden symbols into Wild.
Strategies for maximizing winnings
- Bankroll management: due to the average volatility, the game can provide series of small wins, alternating with periods of silence. It is recommended to use a bet of no more than 1-2% of the total balance.
- Bonus waiting: the main potential is laid in the round of free spins, where the multiplier does not reset. It is not worth stopping the game too early if the bonus has not yet dropped.
- Using demo mode: before playing for real money, test the frequency of golden symbols dropping in the demo version to understand the rhythm of the slot.
- Bonus purchase (if available): in some jurisdictions, the function of purchasing free spins is available. Considering the high RTP of the bonus round, this can be justified when deep in the bankroll.
Mathematical model
The mechanics of Mahjong Ways 2 is based on the balance between the frequency of payouts and the size of multipliers.
- RTP: is 96.95%, which is higher than the industry average (usually 96%). This means that over a long distance, the slot returns players almost 97% of all supplied funds.
- Volatility: average. This ensures relatively small and medium payouts, with the possibility of rare, but large wins thanks to a multiplier of x100,000.
- Chances of winning: thanks to 2000 winning ways and cascading mechanics, the probability of getting a winning combination in one spin is high. The transformation of golden symbols in Wild additionally increases the success rate.
Compared to analogs (3 similar slots)
- Mahjong Ways (original): the predecessor has a similar theme, but in Mahjong Ways 2, golden symbols drop more often, and the maximum win and potential multipliers are higher. The original is slightly more stable, but less 'explosive'.
- Fortune Tiger (PG Soft): another hit from the same provider with an Asian theme. Unlike Mahjong Ways 2, it uses a 3x3 grid and mechanics that multiply the total win, rather than cascading multipliers. The volatility of Fortune Tiger often feels higher.
- Gemix (Play’n GO): a slot with similar cascading mechanics and multiplier accumulation in the charge of crystals. However, Gemix has a 7x7 grid and a completely different theme, while Mahjong Ways 2 retains classic payout lines (even in the format of 2000 ways).
Mobile version
Like all PG Soft games, Mahjong Ways 2 is developed using HTML5 technology and optimized for mobile devices first. The interface automatically adjusts to portrait (vertical) and landscape (horizontal) modes of smartphones and tablets.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Very high RTP 96.95%.
- Impressive maximum win up to x100,000.
- Engaging mechanics of golden Wild symbols.
- Excellent graphics and adaptation for mobile devices.
- Multiplier accumulation without loss in the bonus game.
Cons
- Absence of classic risk-game for doubling.
- High dispersion in the bonus round can quickly deplete the balance in case of failure.
- Demo access may be limited in certain regions without special access settings.
Locking
Mahjong Ways 2 is a shining example of how to develop a successful concept, making it even more appealing to players. The combination of high RTP, mechanics of golden symbols, and powerful multipliers makes this slot one of the best in the PG Soft portfolio.
Overall rating: 9/10
Recommendation: Ideal for fans of Asian themes and cascading reels mechanics, ready to risk for a chance to hit a huge multiplier in non-volatile spins.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the maximum win in Mahjong Ways 2?
- The maximum win amounts to x100,000 of your bet.
How does Mahjong Ways 2 differ from the first part?
- In the second part, golden symbols turn into Wild much more often, and the potential for wins and multipliers is significantly higher.
Can you play Mahjong Ways 2 for free?
- Yes, most online casinos and review sites offer a demo version of the slot for free play without registration.
What do the golden symbols do?
- If the golden symbol participates in the winning combination, it turns into a Wild symbol, which substitutes for other symbols to create new lines.
What is the RTP of the slot?
- The theoretical return to player (RTP) is 96.95%, which is an excellent indicator.