Game Information
Review of the gaming machine Book of Itza from Wizard Games
Introduction
Book of Itza — this is an atmospheric video slot from the studio Wizard Games, released into the world on April 29, 2021. The game is made in the popular genre 'Book' (Book-style), but with a unique Mayan-Aztec setting, which favorably distinguishes it from its Egyptian counterparts.
Features of the slot Book of Itza
- Mechanics 1024 allows for winning instead of fixed lines.
- High volatility and RTP up to 96.34%.
- Unique Locked Frame Wild system.
- Bonus free spins with an expanding symbol.
- The theme of ancient civilizations of Central America.
Design and atmosphere
Book of Itza immerses the player in the mysterious world of jungles and ruins of the ancient Mayan civilization. The barabans are located against the backdrop of stone temples, covered with vines and moss. The graphics are high-quality 2D animation with detailed symbols: golden masks, ceremonial statuettes, ornate decorations. The sound accompaniment includes ethnic barabans, jungle noise, and mystical melodies, creating a sense of mysterious involvement.
Characteristics and symbols
Slot parameters table
| Parameter | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Developer | Wizard Games |
| Release date | April 29, 2021. |
| Reels / Ways | 5x4 / 1024 ways to win |
| Rate range | from €0.10 to €50.00 |
| Maximum win | up to x5000 of the bet |
| RTP | 96.34% (there is also a version 94.14%) |
| Volatility | High |
Payouts for combinations (at maximum bet)
- Book (Scatter/Wild) - x20 for 5 symbols.
- The man (male) - x15 for 5 symbols.
- The woman (female) - x10 for 5 symbols.
- Golden mask - x7.5 for 5 symbols.
- Ceremonial ring - x5 for 5 symbols.
Bonus functions and unique mechanics
- Wild/Scatter: the symbol 'Book' performs a double role - it substitutes for other symbols and triggers the bonus.
- Free Spins: when 3+ books appear, 12 free spins are activated. Before starting, one of the usual symbols is selected, which becomes expanding (occupies the entire baraban) when it appears in any quantity.
- Locked Frame Wild: every time a Wild appears on the baraban, it adds a 'locked frame' to its position. When the entire vertical is filled with such frames, the entire baraban turns into a sticky Wild on the next spin. This is one of the most innovative mechanics in the genre 'Book'.
- Risk-game: in Book of Itza, the classic gamble game is absent.
Expert opinions and recommendations
Book of Itza - this is a modern interpretation of the classic format with an emphasis on visual uniqueness and original Wild mechanics. Experts note that Locked Frame significantly increases the winning potential in the base game, making even non-bonus spins interesting.
Recommendations for players
- Play with a minimum bet during 100–200 spins to 'progress' the slot before increasing the bet.
- Use demo mode to understand the frequency of Locked Frame activations.
- In the time of freespins, it is advisable to choose high-paying symbols (wild or scatter), as they often provide large combinations when expanded.
Mathematical model
- RTP: 96.34% — above the market average.
- Volatility: high — big wins are rare, but significant.
- Chances of winning:
- Base game: low frequency, but possible cascades through Locked Frame.
- Bonus spins: high potential thanks to expanding symbols.
- Maximum theoretical win: x5000 of the total bet.
Compared to analogs
- Book of Dead (Play’n GO) — RTP 96.21%, classic freespins, without additional mechanics.
- Book of Ra Deluxe (Novomatic) — RTP ~92.13%, outdated graphics, but proven reliability.
- Book of Shadows (Nolimit City) — RTP 96.06%, super high volatility, up to x50,000 wins.
Book of Itza occupies a golden mean: better graphics and mechanics than Book of Ra, but less extreme than Book of Shadows.
Mobile version
The slot is fully adapted for mobile devices on iOS and Android. The interface automatically adjusts to the screen size, all buttons are conveniently placed, and animations run without lag. HTML5 is supported, so the game launches directly in the browser without downloading applications.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Unique theme (instead of Egypt).
- Innovative Locked Frame Wild mechanics.
- High RTP (96.34%).
- Excellent mobile optimization.
- Up to 5000x maximum win.
Cons
- No buy feature option in all jurisdictions.
- High volatility may be unsuitable for conservative players.
- No risk-game for doubling.
Locking
Book of Itza — a worthy representative of the genre 'Book' with a bright presentation and fresh ideas. Thanks to the Locked Frame mechanics and quality implementation, it deserves attention from both beginners and experienced players.
Overall rating: 8.7/10
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can you play Book of Itza for free?
- Yes, most online casinos and aggregator sites offer a demo version without registration.
What is the RTP of Book of Itza?
- The main version has an RTP of 96.34%, but there are also regular versions with 94.14% or 94.24% depending on the operator's license.
Is there a bonus buy option in the slot?
- In some jurisdictions — yes, but not in all. Please check in your specific casino.
How many symbols are needed to start the free spins?
- Minimum 3 symbols of the 'Book' in any position on the reels.
Is the slot suitable for beginners?
- Yes, despite the high volatility, the rules are simple, and the interface is intuitive.