Book of Dead slot review: is Play'n GO’s classic still worth it?
Book of Dead is one of those slots that turned into an instant classic after its release, and it’s still a frequent pick among New Zealand players who like high-risk, high-reward spins. Developed by Play'n GO, the game follows adventurer Rich Wilde into an Egyptian setting packed with scarabs, pharaohs and a mysterious golden book that acts as both scatter and special symbol. In this review I’ll cover gameplay, bonus features, payout potential and what Kiwi players should expect before they press spin.
Gameplay and design
The layout is simple and familiar: five reels, three rows and 10 adjustable paylines, which keeps the game accessible to players new to video slots while still offering depth for seasoned punters. Graphics are sharp and optimised for modern devices, with a soundtrack that emphasises the sense of exploration without becoming intrusive. The UI is clean and clear, making it easy to change coin size, total bet and activate Autoplay on desktop or mobile.
Features and bonus round
The core excitement in the Book of Dead slot comes from its Free Spins feature and expanding symbol mechanic. Land three or more book scatters anywhere on the reels to trigger 10 free spins. Before the round starts, one symbol is randomly chosen to become an expanding symbol for the duration of the free spins. When that symbol appears, it expands to cover the whole reel if there’s enough room, which can create big payouts across multiple paylines.
There’s no multi-level bonus game or progressive jackpot in the classic version, but the simplicity is part of its appeal. A gamble feature may appear in some operators’ versions, letting players attempt to double small wins by predicting card colour, although this is optional and not available in every jurisdiction.
RTP, volatility and payouts
For New Zealand players interested in long-term expectations, Book of Dead’s typical RTP is around 96.21% in many iterations, though operators sometimes run slightly different versions so always check the game’s info page at your chosen casino. The slot is high volatility, meaning wins are less frequent but can be substantial when they land — including maximum wins often reported at up to 5,000x your stake in a single spin. That combination makes it attractive for players chasing larger payouts rather than steady small returns.
Bet range and suitability
Book of Dead caters to a broad range of budgets. Stakes start low enough for casual spins but also allow for sizeable bets if you prefer to chase the top payouts. Because of its high volatility, it’s wise to manage your bankroll carefully. New players should start with smaller bets to get a feel for the pace and the free spins mechanic before increasing stakes.
Mobile experience
Play'n GO built Book of Dead in HTML5 so it performs well on smartphones and tablets. The layout scales smoothly, and touch controls make placing bets and activating Autoplay straightforward. Load times are quick and the animations run smoothly on modern iOS and Android devices, making it a reliable option for spinning on the go from anywhere in New Zealand.
Pros and cons
- Pros: Strong win potential, iconic theme and immersive atmosphere, simple rules, mobile-friendly and widely available across reputable casinos.
- Cons: High volatility means longer losing streaks are possible, limited bonus variety compared with more modern slots, some versions have slightly different RTPs.
Tips for New Zealand players
- Check the RTP displayed in-game before you start — operators sometimes offer variants with different return-to-player percentages.
- Use smaller bets when chasing the expanding symbol free spins to extend your play; high volatility can chew through a bankroll quickly.
- Try the demo mode if available to understand the expanding symbol mechanic without risking real money.
- Play at licensed, reputable casinos that support responsible gambling and provide clear banking options for NZ players.
If you want to read more about the title itself from a resources perspective, check out this page on the book of dead game for additional background and imagery. Overall, Book of Dead remains a staple for Kiwi slot fans who enjoy bold, cinematic themes and the thrill of chasing big wins. Its straightforward design and potent free spins feature make it easy to pick up but hard to master, which is why it’s still a go-to for many players in New Zealand.
