Book of Ra Deluxe Slot Review
Novomatic • RTP 95.10% • High Volatility
Game Specifications
Provider
Novomatic
RTP
95.10%
Volatility
High
Paylines
10
Max Win
5,000x
Released
2008
Game Overview
Book of Ra Deluxe is one of the most iconic slots ever created. Developed by Novomatic and originally released in 2008 as an enhanced version of the 2005 original, it pioneered the "Book of" genre that has spawned dozens of imitators. The Egyptian treasure hunt theme follows an explorer through ancient tombs on a simple 5×3 grid with 10 paylines.
Despite its age, Book of Ra Deluxe remains immensely popular thanks to its elegant simplicity and the expanding symbol mechanic in free spins. The Book symbol serves as both Wild and Scatter — three or more trigger 10 free spins where a randomly chosen symbol expands to fill entire reels when it forms part of a win. If the explorer symbol is chosen as the expanding symbol, full-screen wins become possible, delivering the maximum 5,000x payout. This straightforward yet thrilling mechanic is why Book of Ra Deluxe has stood the test of time for nearly two decades.
Key Features
- • Book Wild/Scatter: The Book of Ra symbol serves dual duty as both Wild (substituting for all other symbols) and Scatter (triggering free spins with 3+).
- • Expanding Symbol Free Spins: 10 free spins with a randomly chosen expanding symbol. When the chosen symbol lands and forms a winning combination, it expands to cover the entire reel.
- • Gamble Feature: After any win, gamble for a 50/50 chance to double your payout. Can be repeated up to 5 times for 32x the original win.
- • Re-trigger: Free spins can be re-triggered by landing 3+ Book symbols during the bonus round.
Pros
- Legendary slot that defined the 'Book of' genre
- Expanding symbol mechanic creates full-reel wins
- Simple gameplay perfect for all experience levels
- Gamble feature adds excitement post-win
- Available at virtually every SA-facing casino
- Re-triggerable free spins
Cons
- Below-average RTP at 95.1%
- Graphics are noticeably dated by 2026 standards
- Only 10 paylines limits base game action
- Expanding symbol is random — can choose low-payers
- No modern features like multipliers or cascades
Book of Ra vs Book of Dead
The most common comparison is between Book of Ra Deluxe and Play'n GO's Book of Dead. Both use identical mechanics — the Book Wild/Scatter, 10 free spins with an expanding symbol, and 10 paylines. However, Book of Dead offers a higher RTP (96.21% vs 95.10%) and significantly better graphics. Book of Ra Deluxe is the original and has a nostalgic appeal, but for pure value, Book of Dead is the better mathematical choice. Many SA players play both, appreciating each for different reasons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Written by
Sarah van der Berg
Classic Slots Specialist
Sarah has been playing Book of Ra since the original 2005 release and considers the Deluxe version one of the most important slots in gaming history.
More About Book of Ra Deluxe
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