Theme and Design
The Chicken Cross slot machine is a farm-themed game developed by UpGaming. The design of the game is colorful and vibrant, with illustrations that evoke a sense of rural life. Players are transported to a scenic countryside where chickens roam free in a lush green landscape. The background image features rolling hills, sunflowers, and cornfields, creating an idyllic atmosphere.
The reels are set against a wooden fence, adding to the rustic theme. The game’s fonts and graphics are simple yet visually appealing, with each element complementing the other to Chicken Cross create a cohesive visual experience. Overall, the design of Chicken Cross is engaging and inviting, drawing players in with its whimsical charm.
Symbols
The game features a mix of traditional slot symbols, including card numbers 9 through Ace, as well as some themed icons that add variety to the gameplay. The high-paying symbols are designed to resemble farm-related items, such as:
- Chickens
- Eggs
- Pigs
- Cows
These symbols appear on the reels in various combinations, creating winning opportunities for players. Each symbol has its own payout value, with the highest paying chicken symbol offering up to 500 times the stake.
Payouts
The payouts in Chicken Cross are structured as follows:
Symbol Paytable Value (x) Aces (wild) x1000 – x10000 Kings, Queens x200 – x400 Jokers, 9-10s x50 – x150
The payouts are listed for a single bet line and the minimum stake of €1. Players can adjust their bets to suit their preferences, which affects the potential winnings.
Wilds
The Aces symbol acts as a wild in Chicken Cross. It substitutes any regular paying symbols to create winning combinations. The wild’s value is dependent on the paytable values mentioned above. During free spins rounds, the Ace becomes sticky and remains on the reels until the feature ends.
Scatters
There are no scatters in this game that trigger bonus features or free spins directly. However, landing three or more chickens on adjacent reels triggers a mini-game called "Chicken Cross."
Bonus Features – Chicken Cross
The Chicken Cross feature is triggered by landing three or four chicken symbols on the first two consecutive reels (starting from either side of the grid). This starts a separate game where players help a farmer collect eggs. The goal is to move a chicken across the farm, collecting eggs and avoiding obstacles along the way.
Free Spins
Chicken Cross offers 10 free spins that are triggered by landing three or more chickens on any reel position. During this feature:
- All wins are multiplied x2
- Wilds become sticky (remain in place until the end of the round)
The free spins can be retriggered if three or four chicken symbols appear during the feature.
Return to Player (RTP)
Chicken Cross has an RTP of 96.15%, which is above average for online slots. This means that, over a long period, players should expect approximately €1 in winnings for every €10 placed on this game.
Volatility
The volatility level of Chicken Cross falls under the medium to high range (estimated at around 9/10). As such, it may offer bigger payouts less frequently than low-volatility games. However, during winning streaks or bonus features, players can enjoy substantial wins.
Betting Range and Max Win
Players can bet between €0.01 and €5 per line in this game (€1 to €50 max). The maximum payout is capped at 500 times the stake for a single chicken symbol.
Gameplay Experience
Chicken Cross offers an engaging experience, with multiple features that enhance gameplay:
- A wide betting range
- Medium to high volatility provides varying levels of risk and potential reward
- Multiplier wins (x2 in free spins)
- Sticky wilds during bonus rounds
While some may find the theme slightly clichéd, the colorful design helps elevate this aspect. The inclusion of a mini-game feature adds an extra layer of engagement for players.
Mobile Play
Chicken Cross is designed to be played on mobile devices using HTML5 technology. The game adapts seamlessly across different screen sizes and operating systems (iOS and Android), ensuring that gameplay remains smooth and responsive.
Player Experience
The farm-themed design might appeal more to casual players who enjoy a lighthearted experience, while those seeking high-stakes action may find the maximum win potential limited compared to other slots. Players should note:
- Potential for infrequent but substantial payouts
- Lower RTPs in non-winning sessions (estimated 91-92%)
- Wide betting range and multiplier options
The Chicken Cross slot machine presents an exciting combination of rewards, graphics, and gameplay variety that caters to a wide audience.
Overall Analysis
In conclusion, UpGaming’s Chicken Cross is a solid addition to the online slots market. While its medium-to-high volatility might deter some players, others will appreciate the varied payouts, bonus features, and colorful theme. The design maintains an attractive, farm-like atmosphere that contributes positively to player experience.