Book of Ra Review: Our Verdict
UnionSlots rating: 6.5/10. Book of Ra is where the book format started: a symbol that is both wild and scatter, free spins with one expanding symbol, and a gamble button. It’s simple and very volatile, and its RTP is lower than most modern games in some versions. Play it for nostalgia or for the pure expanding-symbol feature; for a modern take on the same idea, Book of Dead and Legacy of Dead offer higher RTPs.
Pros
- The original book slot, simple to learn
- Expanding symbol can fill the screen with wins
- Free spins can retrigger
Cons
- RTP can be as low as about 92% depending on the version
- High volatility with long dry spells
- Dated graphics and only 9 lines
Book of Ra Slot Facts
| Provider | Novomatic (Greentube) |
| Release | 2005 |
| RTP | About 92%–96%, depending on version |
| Volatility | High |
| Reels × rows | 5 × 3 |
| Paylines | Up to 9, adjustable |
| Free spins | 10 with an expanding symbol, can retrigger |
| Gamble | Red or black card guess |
| Mobile | Yes, iOS and Android browser |
How Book of Ra Works
Book of Ra has 5 reels, 3 rows and up to 9 paylines. The Book of Ra symbol is both the wild, substituting for every symbol, and the scatter: three, four or five Books anywhere pay a scatter win and trigger the free spins. The explorer is the top symbol, followed by the pharaoh, the scarab and the statue.
Free Spins and the Expanding Symbol
Before the 10 free spins start, one symbol is chosen at random to be the expanding symbol. Whenever it lands during the feature, it expands to cover its whole reel and pays on every active line, even if the reels are not adjacent. Landing three more Books during the feature awards 10 extra spins. The expanding symbol is what gives the game its big-win potential.
The Gamble Feature
After any win you can choose to gamble: guess whether the next card is red or black to double the win, or lose it. It doesn’t change the game’s long-term return, so treat it as optional entertainment.
3-5–10, 4-40–100, 5-150–200
3-5–10, 4-40–100, 5-150–200
RTP, Volatility and What to Expect
Review sites list different RTPs for Book of Ra, from about 92.13% to 96%, because there are several versions. Check the figure in the game’s help screen before you play. Volatility is high: most of the value comes from free spins with a good expanding symbol.
Book of Ra and Similar Games
Compare Book of Ra Deluxe, Play’n GO’s Book of Dead and Legacy of Dead, and Book of Shadows.
Playing Book of Ra in the UK and on Mobile
Book of Ra runs in the browser on iOS and Android. At UKGC-licensed casinos the stake is capped at £5 per spin (£2 if you are 18–24), and autoplay and turbo are switched off. Demo mode is available at most UKGC casinos after registration and age verification.
Gambling Responsibly
Slots should stay a paid-for form of entertainment. Set a budget before you play, and if gambling stops being fun, these UK services offer free, confidential help:
- GamStop: free self-exclusion from all UKGC-licensed gambling sites.
- GamCare: National Gambling Helpline, 0808 8020 133, open 24/7.
Molly Linwood
Content Specialist
I’m Molly Linwood, a Content Specialist at UnionSlots, where I’m dedicated to delivering the best online slot reviews and comprehensive industry insights for UK players. With a deep understanding of the latest trends in online gambling, I craft engaging, SEO-optimized content that helps UK players navigate the world of online slots. By staying up to date with the newest releases and slot mechanics, I ensure every piece of content adheres to UKGC and ASA guidelines. My work is driven by a passion for delivering valuable information about the best online slots in the UK, while keeping players informed about responsible gaming practices.
FAQ
What is the RTP of Book of Ra?
It depends on the version: reviews list between about 92.13% and 96%. Check the RTP in the game’s information screen at your casino.
What is the difference between Book of Ra and Book of Ra Deluxe?
Deluxe has 10 paylines instead of 9, updated graphics and a slightly different RTP. The free spins feature with the expanding symbol works the same way.
How does the expanding symbol work?
Before the free spins, one symbol is picked at random. When it lands during the feature, it expands to fill its reels and pays on all lines, even if the reels are not next to each other.
How many free spins do you get?
Three or more Books anywhere award 10 free spins, and the feature can retrigger.
Is the gamble feature worth using?
The red-or-black gamble doubles a win or loses it, so it doesn’t change your long-term return. Use it only with small wins, if at all.
Which is the best expanding symbol?
The explorer pays the most, but even low-value symbols can pay well because the expanding symbol pays on every line.
