The Starburst slot by NetEnt is an iconic and highly popular game that has captured the hearts of slot enthusiasts worldwide. Known for its simplicity, vibrant visuals, and smooth gameplay, it continues to be a favorite despite the influx of newer, more complex slot games. This review takes a deep dive into the features, gameplay, and mobile experience of Starburst, as well as why it stands out among other slots.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | Starburst |
| Developer | NetEnt |
| Reels | 5 |
| Rows | 3 |
| Paylines | 10 fixed |
| RTP (Return to Player) | 96.09% |
| Hit Frequency | 22.6% |
| Max Win | 500x bet per spin or re-spin |
| Volatility | Low/Medium |
| Min Bet | $0.10 |
| Max Bet | $100 |
| Autoplay | Available in some jurisdictions (10 to 1,000 spins) with advanced settings for stopping on win, balance change, etc. |
| Win Both Ways | Payouts are awarded for combinations from both left-to-right and right-to-left, effectively doubling the number of ways to win |
| Starburst Wild | Expands to cover full reel and triggers re-spins, up to 3 times (appears only on reels 2, 3, or 4) |
| Bonus Feature | Starburst Wilds feature triggers re-spins and can lock in Wilds for additional re-spins up to 3 times |
| Low Pay Symbols | Purple, blue, red, green, yellow jewels |
| High Pay Symbols | Lucky red 7, BAR |
| Purple/Blue Jewel Pay | 3 = 0.5x, 4 = 1x, 5 = 2.5x bet |
| Orange Jewel Pay | 3 = 0.7x, 4 = 1.5x, 5 = 4x bet |
| Green Jewel Pay | 3 = 0.8x, 4 = 2x, 5 = 5x bet |
| Yellow Jewel Pay | 3 = 1x, 4 = 2.5x, 5 = 6x bet |
| Lucky Red 7 Pay | 3 = 2.5x, 4 = 6x, 5 = 12x bet |
| BAR Pay | 3 = 5x, 4 = 20x, 5 = 25x bet |
| Max Payout for BAR | 250x bet (500x with Win Both Ways) |
Introduction to Starburst
Released in 2012 by NetEnt, Starburst quickly became one of the most played and beloved slot games in online casinos. It offers a captivating, space-themed environment where players are greeted by vibrant jewels and the mesmerizing Starburst Wilds. The game’s straightforward mechanics, combined with a high RTP (Return to Player) and low volatility, make it accessible for both beginners and experienced players alike.
Gameplay Features
Symbols and Payouts
The symbols in Starburst are a mixture of classic fruit-machine icons and dazzling gems. The standard symbols include:
- Purple Gem: Pays 0.5x, 1x, or 2.5x for 3, 4, or 5 symbols
- Orange Gem: Pays 0.7x, 1.5x, or 4x
- Green Gem: Pays 0.8x, 2x, or 5x
- Yellow Gem: Pays 1x, 2.5x, or 6x
- Lucky Red 7: Pays 2.5x, 6x, or 12x
- BAR: Pays 5x, 20x, or 25x
The most valuable symbol is the BAR, which pays up to 25x for 5 symbols. When you land a full line of BAR symbols, the Win Both Ways feature activates, resulting in a 500x payout.
Starburst Wild Feature
The most exciting aspect of Starburst is the Starburst Wild symbol. This wild symbol can appear on reels 2, 3, and 4 only. When it lands, it expands to fill the entire reel, and you get a re-spin. If another wild appears, it locks in place, and the re-spin feature is triggered again, up to three times in a row. This feature dramatically increases your chances of landing multiple wins during a single spin.
Why Players Should Try Starburst
- High RTP and Low Volatility
- With a 96.09% RTP, Starburst offers a competitive return, just above the industry average of 96%. The low volatility ensures frequent, albeit smaller, wins, making it a great option for players who prefer steady payouts over high-risk, high-reward gameplay.
- Win Both Ways Mechanism
- The Win Both Ways feature allows players to win from both sides of the reels, doubling the opportunities for winning combinations. This simple yet effective mechanic keeps the excitement high throughout every spin.
- Starburst Wilds
- The Starburst Wilds not only expand to cover the reel but also trigger re-spins, significantly increasing your chances of securing big wins.
- Accessible Betting Range
- Players can bet anywhere from $0.10 to $100 per spin, making Starburst suitable for both casual players and high rollers.
- Great Mobile Experience
- Starburst has been optimized for mobile play, offering a seamless gaming experience on both Android and iOS devices. The simple layout translates well onto smaller screens, allowing players to enjoy the game on the go.
Mobile Version of Starburst
One of the standout features of Starburst is its mobile optimization. Using HTML5 technology, NetEnt has ensured that the game runs smoothly on mobile devices, including smartphones and tablets. The simple 5×3 grid fits perfectly on smaller screens, and the smooth gameplay and visually striking effects ensure that the mobile experience is just as enjoyable as the desktop version. Whether you’re using iOS or Android, Starburst adapts well to your device, providing a top-notch gaming experience wherever you are.
Demo vs. Real Money Play
For those new to Starburst, or to slots in general, NetEnt offers the option to play the game in demo mode. This allows you to experience the game without risking any real money, giving you the opportunity to familiarize yourself with the mechanics, symbols, and features.
- Demo Mode: Play for free with no risk, ideal for beginners or those who want to test out strategies.
- Real Money Mode: Once you’re comfortable, switch to real-money play for the chance to win actual cash prizes. With an RTP of 96.09%, Starburst offers a solid chance to win.
Starburst Bonus Features
The only bonus feature in Starburst is the Starburst Wilds. Although this is a single feature, it’s highly rewarding. When you land a Starburst Wild, it expands to cover the entire reel, triggering a re-spin. If another wild lands during the re-spin, the feature continues, potentially allowing for up to three consecutive wild reels. This can lead to significant wins, especially when combined with the Win Both Ways mechanic.
Casino Bonuses to Boost Your Starburst Experience
Several online casinos offer generous bonuses to enhance your gameplay. Here are a few worth considering:
- Melbet: Use the bonus code VIVABONO for up to $1750 in bonuses and 290 free spins for online casino slots.
- 1xSlots: Use the code VIVABONO for a 150% bonus up to $450 plus 100 free spins. The welcome package can reach up to $2150 + 550 free spins over the first four deposits.
Pros and Cons of Starburst
Pros:
- Simple and easy-to-understand gameplay
- Frequent small wins due to low volatility
- Win Both Ways feature increases winning opportunities
- Mobile-optimized for seamless play on smartphones and tablets
- Starburst Wilds offer free re-spins and increased chances of winning
Cons:
- Lack of complex features may not appeal to players seeking more variety
- Low maximum payout (500x your bet) might not satisfy high-stakes players looking for bigger wins
- Limited bonus features compared to other slots
Conclusion
Starburst remains one of the most popular slot games in the online casino world, and for good reason. Its combination of simple gameplay, frequent wins, and exciting features, like the Starburst Wilds, makes it a go-to choice for many players. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, Starburst offers a fun, relaxing, and rewarding experience. Try it out for free in demo mode or play for real money to see if you can land that 500x jackpot!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do I trigger the Starburst Wild feature?
- The Starburst Wild feature is triggered when the Starburst Wild symbol lands on reels 2, 3, or 4. It expands to cover the full reel and triggers a re-spin.
2. Can I play Starburst on mobile?
- Yes! Starburst is fully optimized for mobile devices, available on both iOS and Android.
3. What is the RTP of Starburst?
- The default RTP for Starburst is 96.09%, but it can vary depending on the casino. Be sure to check the paytable before you start playing.
4. Is there a progressive jackpot in Starburst?
- No, Starburst does not feature a progressive jackpot. However, it offers a 500x maximum payout per spin.
5. Can I use bonuses while playing Starburst?
- Yes, many online casinos offer bonuses like free spins or deposit bonuses that can be used on Starburst. Be sure to check the casino’s bonus terms and conditions.
