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Rise of Merlin Slot Review

S. Stoynova
Svetlana is a seasoned iGaming writer who has been contributing to CasinoGamesPro.com since 2015. She specialises in in-depth reviews of casino games, including slots, roulette, blackjack, and video poker. Her expertise also extends to evaluating payment methods, mobile casino apps, and leading online gambling platforms.
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Rise of Merlin is a 5-reel, 3-row, 10-payline video slot from Play’n GO, released in 2019. Built on the ever-popular “Book of…” engine, it combines classic, fast-paced gameplay with a highly volatile math model capable of delivering wins of up to 5,000 times your stake. A single orb symbol acts as both wild and scatter, unlocking free spins with expanding symbols that can retrigger indefinitely. Polished high-definition visuals, a cinematic score, and full HTML5 optimisation for desktop and mobile have helped the title maintain strong popularity among fantasy-loving slot fans.

Rise of Merlin Pros and Cons

  • Pros
    • Potential for wins up to 5,000x stake
    • Free spins can be retriggered, adding extra expanding symbols each time
    • Above-average RTP of 96.58%
    • Flexible bet range from €0.10 to €100
    • Fully optimised for smartphones and tablets
  • Cons
    • High volatility may cause extended dry spells
    • Limited variety of bonus features beyond free spins
    • No progressive jackpot element

Rise of Merlin Data Table

Slot’s Summary
Game TypeVideo Slot
DeveloperPlay’n GO
Release DateJune 2019
Layout5 Reels • 3 Rows
RTP96.58%
VolatilityHigh
Minimum Bet€0.10
Maximum Bet€100
Max Payout5,000x stake
Paylines10 (adjustable)
Free SpinsYes
FeaturesWild/Scatter Orb, Free Spins, Expanding Symbol, Gamble Feature
Jackpot TypeFixed

Rise of Merlin Theme and Symbols

As its name suggests, Rise of Merlin transports players to the mythical realm of Camelot, focusing on the legendary wizard before his service to King Arthur. The reels spin inside a candle-lit, gothic great hall with floating particles of magic setting the scene. Each symbol reinforces the fantasy theme, from mystical dragons to Merlin’s loyal owl. The spell-casting atmosphere is enhanced by an enchanting soundtrack and subtle arcane animations, immersing players in a world where ancient sorcery can conjure huge rewards with a single spin.

Visuals and Audio

Play’n GO employs crisp HD graphics and smooth reel animations, ensuring every flicker of Merlin’s robe and every crackle of magic looks pristine on any screen size. Reels are framed by ornate pillars bathed in purple light, while glowing runes hover over control buttons. The soundtrack combines orchestral swells with distant choral chants, building tension during regular play and escalating during bonus rounds. Occasional audio stingers, such as a triumphant fanfare when a big win lands, keep engagement levels high without becoming intrusive.

Symbols

Low-Paying Symbols: The card ranks 10, J, Q, K and A are rendered in medieval script and pay the smallest prizes.
High-Paying Symbols:

  • Merlin (wizard)
  • White Dragon
  • Red Dragon
  • Owl

Rise of Merlin Payout Table

Symbol3 Symbols4 Symbols5 Symbols
Merlin16x160x500x
White Dragon4x32x160x
Red Dragon4x16x60x
Owl4x16x60x
A1x4x16x
K1x4x12x
Q0.5x2.5x12x
J0.5x2.5x8x
100.5x2.5x8x

How to Play Rise of Merlin Slot

Select your coin value and number of active paylines (1–10) using the on-screen controls; the total bet ranges from €0.10 to €100. Hit the Spin button or use Auto-Play for up to 100 automatic spins with optional stop limits. The orb symbol substitutes for all others and also acts as the scatter: land three or more anywhere to trigger eight free spins. Before the bonus starts, a random symbol is chosen to expand and cover entire reels whenever enough instances land, paying on any line. Free spins can be retriggered indefinitely, adding additional expanding symbols each time.

Tips and Strategies for Rise of Merlin

  • Because volatility is high, set a bankroll that can withstand long droughts while waiting for free spins.
  • Activate all 10 paylines to maximise chances of landing expanding symbols during the bonus round.
  • Lower stakes let you extend playtime and improve the odds of triggering multiple retriggers in a single session.
  • Take advantage of the optional gamble feature only when playing with small wins you’re prepared to lose.
  • Use the game’s built-in loss limits and turbo mode cautiously; faster spins mean quicker bankroll swings.

Rise of Merlin Slot FAQ

What is the RTP of Rise of Merlin?
The default theoretical return to player is 96.58%, slightly above the industry average for online slots.
How much can I win on a single spin?
The maximum payout is 5,000 times your total stake, achievable by filling the screen with the top-paying Merlin symbol during free spins.
Is Rise of Merlin available on mobile devices?
Yes. The slot is built in HTML5 and runs smoothly on iOS and Android phones and tablets without any downloads.
Can I retrigger the free spins feature?
Absolutely. Landing three or more orb scatters during the bonus awards another eight free spins and adds an extra expanding symbol, with no retrigger cap.
Does Rise of Merlin have a progressive jackpot?
No. The game offers a fixed maximum payout instead of a progressive jackpot.

Final Verdict

Rise of Merlin takes the tried-and-tested “Book of…” formula and enhances it with top-tier graphics and a magical atmosphere. Its high volatility and 5,000x potential will appeal to thrill-seekers, while the simple rules make it accessible to newcomers. If you enjoy classic, feature-light gameplay that can explode into huge wins, this wizardly adventure is well worth a spin.

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