Big Time Gaming ventured into Greek mythology through their exciting slot game Apollo Pays Megaways 1. The studio released this captivating title in February 2022 and brought the ancient world to life through their signature Megaways mechanic.
Developer and release date
Big Time Gaming created Apollo Pays as a unique standalone slot that stands apart from their usual Megaways lineup. Most Megaways titles reimagine existing games 2, but the development team built this one completely from scratch. Their proprietary Megaways engine powers this fresh interpretation of Greek mythology.
Theme and visual design
Players find themselves transported to a stunning Mount Olympus where the game unfolds through multiple levels of heavenly splendour. The visual design brings several remarkable elements to life:
Architectural Elements:
- Majestic temples and villas rest atop towering walls
- A layered paradise showcases detailed Greek structures
- Waterfalls pour gracefully from every angle 2
The game grid sits within an elegant golden frame at the screen's centre, which lets players enjoy the spectacular backdrop 2. The reels showcase a rich blue colour palette with detailed patterns. Rather than using traditional Greek imagery, the symbols feature royal playing cards and dazzling jewels.
Key game mechanics
This slot features a 6-reel structure with rows that can show 2 to 7 symbols on each reel 1. Players can win in 117,649 different ways 2 thanks to the powerful Megaways mechanic.
The game's technical specifications reveal its high-stakes character:
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| RTP | 96.56% 2 |
| Minimum Bet | £0.20 1 |
| Maximum Bet | £20.00 1 |
| Hit Rate | 1 in 3.0 2 |
| Volatility | High 1 |
A grand orchestral score creates an immersive atmosphere with Apollo's signature instrument, the lyre, taking centre stage 2. The tempo picks up during spins while the lyre remains prominent in the composition. Carefully selected ambient sounds complement the celestial theme perfectly.
The Megaways engine powers the game's core mechanics. Each reel can display up to seven symbols 1. The game doesn't include a horizontal reel above or below the main grid like traditional Megaways slots, but this design choice maintains its winning potential 2.
Gameplay and Features
Big Time Gaming shows their mastery through Apollo Pays Megaways' gameplay mechanics. The game creates an exciting environment where players can discover new winning combinations with every spin.
Reels and paylines
The game employs a sophisticated 6-reel structure that displays between 2 to 7 symbols on each reel during spins 2. Players can experience an exciting gameplay with changing winning combinations. The variable reel configuration provides 117,649 ways to win2. Winning combinations form from left to right when matching symbols appear on adjacent reels starting from the leftmost position.
Symbols and payouts
The paytable showcases symbols in a variety of values:
| Symbol Type | Payout (6 of a kind) |
|---|---|
| 9-10 | 0.2x stake 2 |
| J-Q | 0.25x stake 2 |
| K-A | 0.3x stake 2 |
| Green/Blue Gems | 0.4x stake 2 |
| Red Gem | 0.5x stake 2 |
| Purple Gem | 5x stake 2 |
Players can enjoy the game's Respins Feature that triggers after each winning combination. The feature works as follows:
- Winning symbols lock into position
- Other symbols spin again
- Players get additional respins when two or more symbols enhance the win 2
Wild and scatter symbols
Two special symbols boost this game's excitement and winning potential:
Wild Symbol: Apollo himself represents the Wild symbol. Players will find it on reels 2 through 5. This symbol substitutes all regular symbols to create winning combinations 2.
Scatter Symbol: A golden lyre serves as the Scatter symbol. Players need this symbol to trigger the Free Spins bonus round. The symbol stays locked during respins to boost bonus trigger chances 2.
These special symbols create balanced gameplay where players can boost their base game wins through smart symbol combinations. The Win Exchange feature adds a strategic element to the game. Players can trade their big wins for free spins opportunities. A win of 100x the stake or higher can be exchanged for 10 free spins. Wins between 25x and 100x give players a chance to gamble for the same reward 3.
The game's high volatility means wins might be rare but much more rewarding. This volatility combined with the game's 96.56% RTP 2 creates an exciting risk-reward balance that high-stakes players love.
Special Features
Apollo Pays Slot features three innovative additions that lift the gaming experience beyond traditional Megaways mechanics. These special features blend together seamlessly and create engaging gameplay with substantial winning potential.
Respins feature
The Respins mechanism is the life-blood of Apollo Pays' special features. Players trigger an automatic respin sequence after landing a winning combination. Here's how it works:
- A golden glow surrounds and locks winning symbols in place 4
- The game respins all non-winning symbols
- Scatter symbols stay locked in place whatever their position 4
Players can keep the feature going if two or more new symbols boost their total win 4. This dynamic creates exciting possibilities where a single win could snowball into bigger combinations through multiple respins.
Win Exchange feature
The Win Exchange™ system adds a strategic layer to gameplay and lets players make meaningful choices after landing big wins. Players can use this feature in two different ways:
| Win Amount | Exchange Option | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| 100x bet or higher | Direct exchange | 10 free spins 4 |
| 25x to 99x bet | Gamble option | Chance for 10 free spins 4 |
Players who win more than 100x their bet can exchange the original 100x portion while keeping any extra amount for their free spins session 4. The gamble wheel's success rate associates with the win size - bigger wins get better odds through larger green sections on the wheel 4.
Free Spins bonus
The Free Spins bonus round stands out as Apollo Pays' most exciting feature. Players can trigger it through the Win Exchange system or by landing three or more scatter symbols. Here's how the bonus works:
You'll get 10 free spins when three scatters appear. Each additional scatter adds 2 more spins to your total 4. The bonus can keep going - three scatters during the feature give you 4 extra spins. Every scatter beyond that adds 2 more spins to your total 4.
The unlimited win multiplier makes this bonus round special. Your multiplier starts at x1 and grows by +1 every time a respin happens during the feature 4. This system can lead to massive payouts, which explains the game's impressive maximum win potential of 116,030x your bet 4.
Big Time Gaming shows its talent for blending new ideas with player-favourite features. The respin feature works smoothly in both regular gameplay and bonus rounds. Players can make strategic choices with the Win Exchange feature, which adds depth to the gameplay.
The respins become even more powerful during free spins. They can boost your wins and increase your multiplier at the same time. This clever combination of features showcases Big Time Gaming's expertise in creating sophisticated slot games.
Payouts and Volatility
Slot games' financial patterns need solid statistical analysis to understand their returns. Apollo Pays offers a detailed mix of payout structures. The game's volatility features deserve a closer look.
RTP and volatility
Apollo Pays features a Return to Player (RTP) percentage that ranges from 96.51% to 96.56% 5. These numbers exceed the industry average and give players better theoretical returns. The RTP breakdown shows:
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Standard RTP | 96.56% 4 |
| Minimum RTP | 96.51% 4 |
| Volatility Level | High 5 |
| Hit Frequency | 3.14 6 |
The game's high volatility rating means players might win less often but can expect bigger payouts 5. This matches Big Time Gaming's signature style of creating high-risk, high-reward games that players love.
Maximum win potential
Players can discover amazing wins in Apollo Pays through multiple game modes:
- Base Game Maximum: 26,900x stake potential 7
- Bonus Round Maximum: 116,030x stake potential 4
- Win Exchange Threshold: 100x stake for guaranteed free spins 4
The game's betting structure fits players of all types:
Players can aim for massive returns with this betting range and maximum win potential. The game promotes responsible gaming standards. The bonus round's maximum potential dwarfs the base game's ceiling, which makes the free spins feature with its unlimited win multiplier a game-changing element.
Hit frequency
Statistical analysis shows a hit frequency of 3.14 6 that indicates players win combinations about every third spin. This rate works well with the game's high volatility profile. Players get an engaging experience with exciting chances for big wins.
Players trigger the bonus round every 165.64 spins on average 6. The free spins feature isn't easy to get, but it shows up during normal gaming sessions. This spacing between bonuses matches the game's high-volatility design and its big win potential.
Data from 2,129 recorded spins 6 shows these real-world results:
- Best Recorded Win: €86.85 (1,737x stake) 6
- Average Bonus Performance: Changes based on multiplier progression
- Consistent RTP Performance: Stays within advertised range during sessions
These statistics create a detailed risk-reward profile. Players who chase high-potential returns will find this appealing, but they should know about the game's volatile nature. The unlimited multiplier system during free spins helps players reach maximum wins. However, players need perfect symbol combinations and multiplier progression to hit these top prizes.
Pros and Cons
The detailed analysis of Apollo Pays shows clear strengths and limitations that affect the gaming experience. Players can get into the slot's key features and possible drawbacks to gain a balanced point of view before trying the game.
Advantages
Apollo Pays shines with its breakthrough features and massive winning potential. Big Time Gaming has created a game-changer that stands out in today's online slot market.
Technical Excellence:
- A high 96.56% default RTP beats the market average 4
- Players can win up to 116,030x their stake 4
- The dynamic reel layout creates up to 117,649 ways to win 4
The Win Exchange™ feature is a breakthrough that gives players more control over their gameplay. Players get two great ways to boost their wins:
-
Direct Exchange Option:
- Wins of 100x stake or higher guarantee 10 free spins
- Players keep any extra wins above 100x stake 4
-
Strategic Gambling:
- Players can turn smaller wins (25x-99x) into bonus rounds
- The odds get better as win size increases 4
The respins feature shows smart game design at work:
- Winning symbols stay locked in place
- Scatter symbols don't move during respins
- Better wins lead to extra respins 4
Disadvantages
Apollo Pays has impressive features but players should think about several drawbacks:
Volatility Concerns: The game's high volatility rating 4 creates these challenges:
- Players face long waits between big wins
- Players need strong bankroll management
- Casual players looking for frequent small wins might struggle
Betting Limitations: The betting structure has these restrictions:
Gameplay Considerations: The game mechanics need careful assessment:
-
Bonus Trigger Difficulty:
- Free spins are hard to trigger naturally
- Players rarely reach the Win Exchange 100x threshold 4
-
Feature Complexity:
- Players must learn multiple special features
- Respin mechanics slow down the game
- Win Exchange feature needs strategic choices 4
The visual design works well but follows standard slot patterns:
- BTG's typical aesthetic style
- Graphics stick to familiar approaches
- Classic symbol designs 4
Performance Metrics Table:
| Aspect | Limitation | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Volatility | High 4 | Increased risk profile |
| Bet Range | £0.20-£20 4 | Limited high-roller appeal |
| Hit Frequency | Variable | Unpredictable session outcomes |
Technical aspects of the game bring specific challenges:
- Respins have resource-heavy animations
- Bonus rounds need complex multiplier math
- Respin mechanics lead to longer sessions 4
Free spins offer unlimited multiplier potential but come with catches:
- Best results need perfect conditions
- Success depends on regular respin triggers
- Long bonus rounds might not pay proportionally 4
The Win Exchange feature adds something new but has its risks:
- Players need big wins to use it well
- Gambling option can be risky
- It affects player choices at key moments 4
Players should weigh these pros and cons based on their risk tolerance and priorities. Big Time Gaming's reputation shows in this high-risk, high-reward slot that might not fit everyone's playing style or bankroll strategy.
Apollo Pays stands out with its technical specs and features as a sophisticated gaming choice. Players need to think over its complex nature and volatility. The game offers massive win potential, but players should weigh this against its volatility and betting limits.
Conclusion
Big Time Gaming's technical prowess shines through Apollo Pays, a Greek mythology-themed slot that challenges conventional game design. Players can expect a mathematically solid 96.56% RTP and massive win potential up to 116,030x stake. The Win Exchange feature adds strategic depth to the game. Players can also enjoy unlimited multiplier during free spins that makes this high-volatility slot even more thrilling.
The game cleverly combines respins, locked symbols and dynamic multipliers to create an exceptional gaming experience that rewards patience. The slot has some betting range limits and complex features. Yet it successfully balances technical excellence with pure entertainment. High-risk, high-reward enthusiasts will love this slot's mathematical model and feature set. Smart bankroll management remains key to enjoy the game fully.
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References
[1] - https://www.bigwinboard.com/apollo-pays-big-time-gaming-slot-review/
[2] - https://lottomart.com/en-gb/games/apollo-pays-megaways
[3] - https://www.emiratescasino.com/slots/apollo-pays
[4] - https://hideousslots.com/slot-review/apollo-pays/
[5] - https://fruityslots.com/slots/reviews/apollo-pays/
[6] - https://www.casinohawks.com/slots/apollo-pays
[7] - https://slotcatalog.com/en/slots/Apollo-Pays-Megaways