The Difference Between Wild and Scatter Symbols

They are two real classics in every reputable online casino, and it is hard to imagine online slot machines without them: wild and scatter symbols.

Some slots have only one wild, others again only one scatter, and still others even both.

But what exactly is behind these lucrative special symbols and how can you profit from them?

We have taken a closer look at that in the following.

What is a Scatter Symbol?

A scatter symbol can appear in different variations and often differs from slot machine to slot machine.

However, all scatters have one thing in common and that is the fact that they significantly increase your chances of winning.

This happens because scatter symbols usually trigger either the free spins game mode or another bonus feature.

For such a feature to start, you usually need to get multiple scatters (usually 2 or 3) at once and in a single spin.

At the best online casinos, a scatter usually has a second function and that is its actual payout value.

In some games, you win a coin prize according to the pay table if you land between 2 and 5 scatters.

However, there are also games where the scatter does not pay out.

Here the game rules will help you.

What is a Wild Symbol?

The wild is almost more famous than the scatter and is often the first special symbol you come across.

In short, a wild symbol is a wild that can substitute for other symbols to create a winning combination.

However, a wild can never substitute for a scatter.

Like a scatter symbol, a wild can also form a pure wild payline when multiple symbols are used in a spin, thus providing coin wins.

New online slot machines often feature a whole range of different wild symbols:

  • Shifting Wilds: the wild appears on the last reel and moves forward in one position with each spin until it disappears from the screen. Pure Wandering Wilds, unlike Shifting Wilds, can also appear on a center reel.
  • Sticky Wilds: The wild remains in its position and you get a free re-spin. When another wild appears, it too becomes sticky, and the game starts all over again. This can continue until you have filled all the reels with Wilds.
  • Expanding Wilds: The wild spreads across an entire reel. This can also take place on multiple reels in one spin, increasing your potential winnings immeasurably.

The Best Online Slots for Wilds and Scatters

Popular slots for wilds and scatters include Immortal Romance slot, Divine Dreams slot, and Dead or Alive slot, where you can get up to 5 of these special symbols each time.

However, we always recommend that you study the game rules and especially the paytable thoroughly before starting to play so that you don't get any nasty surprises.

You are also welcome to learn more about online casinos and bonuses on Casinoble!

If you want to try yourself how these special symbols work, check out our recommended casinos:

NoBonus Casino

VegasHero Casino

Spinit Casino

Yeti Casino

Spela Casino

Lerato Dlamini

Lerato Dlamini

Content Writer

Lerato Dlamini, a 35-year-old content writer from the picturesque town of Franschhoek, Western Cape, has a talent for creating compelling, informative articles. Holding a degree in English and Communications from the University of Cape Town, Lerato expertly communicates the intricacies of the casino world to Casinoble's audience. When she's not writing, Lerato dreams of starting a non-profit organization to empower young South African women through education and mentorship.

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