Expanding Wilds in Online Pokies: How They Work and Our Favourite Games
Expanding wilds are one of the most exciting features in online pokies today. Imagine a single symbol lands on the reels, then bursts to life, stretching across an entire column and unlocking massive payouts.
Expanding wilds don’t just substitute for symbols; they supercharge your gameplay by turning near-misses into big wins. These wilds transform ordinary spins into extraordinary moments. And with the chance to multiply your stake by as much as 5,000x, they’re not just thrilling—they’re potentially life-changing.
At AusCasinos, our team has spent countless hours diving into pokies with this standout feature. In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what expanding wilds are, how they work, and why they’re worth chasing. Plus, we’ll highlight our top five games with expanding wilds to get you spinning with confidence.
Let’s dive in!
What are Expanding Wilds?
Expanding wilds are a game-changing feature in online pokies, designed to super charge your payouts (sometimes as high as 5,000x your stake!).
Unlike regular wilds, which only substitute for other symbols, expanding wild symbols stretch to cover an entire reel, creating new winning combinations across multiple paylines. This transformation creates multiple opportunities for winning combinations across all active paylines, turning near-misses into rewarding payouts.
For instance, if an expanding wild appears on reel 2, it not only completes paylines horizontally but can also connect vertically with symbols on adjacent reels for bigger wins.
When triggered, expanding wilds light up the reels with vibrant visuals like glowing symbols or streaks of light. A dynamic sound effect, such as a sparkling hum, builds anticipation for the payout. In games like Starburst by NetEnt, they can lead to re-spins and create multiple chances for wins in a single sequence.
How Common Are Expanding Wilds?
The frequency of expanding wilds often comes down to a game’s volatility. Medium-volatility games like Starburst strike a balance, offering consistent wild appearances to keep you engaged. On the flip side, high-volatility pokies like Iron Bank make you work for it, but the reward can be well worth the wait.
To give you a clearer picture, we’ve rated the appearance rate of expanding wilds in our top recommended games. Keep reading to see which pokies offer steady excitement and which ones pack their wilds into thrilling, high-risk moments.
How Expanding Wild Symbols Work
Expanding wilds are among the most dynamic features in online pokies, offering thrilling opportunities to turn a single spin into a sequence of rewarding payouts.
What Triggers Expanding Wilds?
In most games, expanding wilds activate when a specific wild symbol lands on reels 2, 3, or 4—the prime spots for maximum payout potential. These reels connect with the greatest number of paylines, ensuring expanded wilds have the biggest impact. Depending on the game, this feature can be triggered during base gameplay (Starburst) or as part of a bonus round (Iron Bank). Understanding the game’s rules is key to knowing when to expect expanding wilds.
What Happens When They Activate?
Once triggered, the wild symbol stretches vertically, covering all positions on the reel. This expansion is accompanied by dramatic visuals—think glowing lights or cascading colors—and sound effects that amplify the excitement. In some pokies, like Starburst, the reel locks in place, awarding a re-spin. If another wild lands during the re-spin, the process repeats, creating a chain reaction of potential wins.
Why Do Players Love It?
The feature’s charm lies in its ability to turn near-misses into big wins. With every expansion, new paylines form, especially when high-value symbols align. For instance, aligning an expanding wild with symbols like bars in Starburst can lead to payouts up to 500x your stake. Whether you’re chasing jackpots or enjoying the spectacle, expanding wilds ensure every spin feels like a winning opportunity.
Our Top 5 Online Pokies With Expanding Wilds
Our goal at Auscasinos is always help our players stay ahead of the game. So, to ensure you avoid shoddy pokies, we’ve listed some of our absolute favourite pokies below. All feature an expanding wild feature, and you can play them at various online casinos in Australia.
Iron Bank
Released by Relax Gaming in 2020, Iron Bank offers a high-stakes heist adventure with a Cuban flair. Its expanding wilds feature shines in the game’s bonus rounds, adding layers of strategic excitement to its already volatile gameplay.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Feature Trigger | Expanding wilds activate during the bonus round when wild symbols land on designated reels. |
| Payout Potential | Max win of up to 49,998x your stake with optimal symbol combinations. |
| Odds/Frequency | Low frequency, as expanding wilds only appear in high-volatility bonus rounds. |
Feature Mechanics:
Expanding wilds in Iron Bank activate during the second bonus round. Wild symbols land on designated reels and stretch vertically to cover the entire reel, amplifying winning combinations. This feature becomes especially lucrative when paired with sticky wilds, creating chained payouts and unlocking the game’s full win potential.
Visuals and Sounds:
The expanding wilds burst onto the reels as fiery crates, glowing with intensity. Accompanied by the crackle of flames and a suspenseful soundtrack, the feature immerses players in the high-risk, high-reward atmosphere of the game.
Payout Potential and Frequency:
Expanding wilds have a low frequency, appearing exclusively in bonus rounds. However, when they do, they can deliver wins up to a massive 49,998x your stake, particularly when combined with high-value symbols like cigars and safes.
Why It Stands Out:
Iron Bank stands out for its layered gameplay, where expanding wilds are part of a well-orchestrated bonus round strategy. The feature’s explosive visuals and rare but rewarding payouts make it a favorite for thrill-seeking players
Starburst
Launched by NetEnt in 2012, Starburst remains a staple of online pokies thanks to its iconic expanding wilds. This feature is at the heart of its gameplay, delivering dazzling visuals and frequent re-spin opportunities that keep players hooked.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Feature Trigger | Expanding wilds are triggered when the Starburst symbol lands on reels 2, 3, or 4. |
| Payout Potential | Max win of 500x your stake during a single spin sequence. |
| Odds/Frequency | Moderate frequency, with expanding wilds appearing regularly during base gameplay. |
Feature Mechanics:
Expanding wilds in Starburst are triggered when the radiant starburst symbol lands on reels 2, 3, or 4. Once activated, the wild expands to cover the entire reel, locks in place, and awards a free re-spin. If another wild lands during the re-spin, the process repeats, creating chain reactions for big payouts.
Visuals and Sounds:
The starburst wild bursts onto the reels with a vibrant explosion of pink, green, and blue, accompanied by shimmering chimes. The locking reel animation and glowing effects heighten the anticipation of chaining wins.
Payout Potential and Frequency:
Expanding wilds appear with moderate frequency, making them a consistent source of excitement. Players can achieve payouts up to 500x their stake by aligning high-value symbols like sevens and bars alongside wild reels.
Why It Stands Out:
What sets Starburst apart is the simplicity and frequency of its expanding wilds. Unlike many games that tie such features to bonus rounds, Starburst delivers action directly in the base game, ensuring every spin feels rewarding.
Ariana
Dive into a mystical underwater world with Microgaming’s Ariana. This visually stunning pokie combines serene themes with a powerful expanding wilds feature that offers consistent opportunities for mid-tier payouts.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Feature Trigger | Expanding wilds activate when the Ariana symbol lands on reel 1 during a winning spin. |
| Payout Potential | Max win of 240x your stake in a single spin sequence. |
| Odds/Frequency | Medium frequency, with expanding wilds appearing regularly in both the base game and free spins round. |
Feature Mechanics:
The expanding wilds in Ariana activate when the shimmering Ariana symbol lands on reel 1 during a winning spin. The wild stretches vertically to cover the entire reel, connecting with adjacent reels to form new paylines.
Visuals and Sounds:
Expanding wilds light up the reels with glowing oceanic blues and silvers, creating a magical underwater glow. The accompanying soundscape includes soft aquatic chimes, enhancing the immersive experience.
Payout Potential and Frequency:
With a maximum win of 240x your stake, Ariana offers steady payout opportunities. Expanding wilds appear with medium frequency in both the base game and free spins round, making them accessible and rewarding.
Why It Stands Out:
Players love how Ariana ties its expanding wilds seamlessly into the underwater theme. The consistent appearance of the feature ensures a balanced and engaging gameplay experience, perfect for players seeking moderate risk and steady rewards.
Jack and the Beanstalk
NetEnt’s Jack and the Beanstalk brings the classic fairy tale to life with innovative mechanics, including walking expanding wilds. This feature adds a dynamic, strategic layer as players climb the reels for treasure.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Feature Trigger | Walking wilds activate when a wild symbol lands anywhere on the reels. |
| Payout Potential | Max win of 3,000x your stake with optimal wild alignments. |
| Odds/Frequency | High frequency during free spins, offering consistent bonus opportunities. |
Feature Mechanics:
Walking expanding wilds activate when the shimmering golden key lands on any reel. These wilds expand vertically and then "walk" across the grid, shifting one reel to the left with each spin. The journey continues until the wild moves off the screen, offering cascading opportunities for payouts.
Visuals and Sounds:
Expanding wilds erupt with golden light as they stretch across the reel, accompanied by a whimsical melody that mirrors the storybook theme. Each step is marked by magical chimes, building anticipation as the wilds traverse the reels.
Payout Potential and Frequency:
The feature peaks during free spins, where walking wilds align with treasure symbols to deliver wins up to 3,000x your stake. With a high frequency in bonus rounds, this mechanic keeps the action engaging.
Why It Stands Out:
Jack and the Beanstalk excels with its walking wilds, which combine expanding mechanics with a unique grid traversal. The feature’s strategic pacing and stunning animations make every spin feel like a step toward treasure.
Hot Shots 2
iSoftBet’s Hot Shots injects soccer excitement into online pokies, complete with animated animal athletes and fiery expanding wilds that can light up the reels for big wins.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Feature Trigger | Expanding wilds activate when the Hot Shots ball lands anywhere on the reels. |
| Payout Potential | Max win of 500x your stake with optimal symbol alignments. |
| Odds/Frequency | Medium frequency, with heightened occurrences during free spins. |
Feature Mechanics:
The expanding wilds in Hot Shots trigger when the flaming soccer ball symbol lands anywhere on the grid. The wild stretches vertically, covering the reel, and connects with animal player symbols to form high-value combinations. The feature is especially impactful during the free spins round, where it triggers more frequently.
Visuals and Sounds:
Expanding wilds erupt in fiery animations, with the soccer ball blazing across the reel. Stadium cheers and energetic sound effects enhance the feeling of scoring a goal with each activation.
Payout Potential and Frequency:
With a maximum win of 500x your stake, Hot Shots balances medium volatility with frequent expanding wild triggers, especially during bonus rounds. Aligning wilds with premium symbols like the lion striker can deliver substantial payouts.
Why It Stands Out:
The dynamic visuals and immersive stadium atmosphere make Hot Shots a standout. The expanding wilds replicate the thrill of a last-minute goal, keeping players engaged with every spin.
Types of Expanding Wilds
Expanding wilds usually come in a few different forms, with some offering higher pay outs than others.
Here are some of the most common types we’ve come across while playing pokies online.
Multiplier Expanding Wilds
Sticky Expanding Wilds
One Reel Expanding Wild
Mini Expanding Wild
Random Expanding Wilds
Transforming Expanding Wilds
Cluster Expanding Wilds
Chain Reaction Expanding Wilds
How to Choose the Best Games with Expanding Wilds: Step-by-Step Guide
- Look for High RTP (Return to Player) Rates
Start by checking the RTP of a game. The higher the RTP, the better your odds over the long term. Games with RTPs above 96% are ideal for players who want steady returns. - Choose the Right Volatility
High Volatility offers fewer wins but bigger payouts when they land, which is ideal for chasing expanding wild chains. Medium Volatility balances frequent smaller wins with occasional big ones. - Check Reel Locations for Expanding Wilds
Look for games where expanding wilds appear on central reels (usually 2, 3, or 4). These reels are strategically placed to maximise winning potential by connecting paylines. - Evaluate the Payout Potential
Consider the game’s maximum payout potential tied to expanding wilds. - Explore Bonus Features Linked to Expanding Wilds
Check if the game combines expanding wilds with other features like free spins or multipliers. Expanding wilds with multipliers can significantly boost your payouts, while free spins enhance gameplay excitement. - Try a Demo Mode
If possible, play the game in demo mode to experience how often the expanding wilds trigger and how they impact payouts. This hands-on approach gives you a sense of whether the game’s mechanics align with your preferences. - Research Player Reviews and Recommendations
Before committing to a game, check player reviews or expert recommendations. - Select a Trusted Game Provider
Stick to games from reputable providers known for delivering exciting expanding wilds.
Pros and Cons of Expanding Wilds
Expanding wilds are a staple in many online pokies, and for good reason. These features can transform a simple game into an adrenaline-filled chase for big payouts. However, like any feature, they come with their own set of strengths and challenges. Here’s what you need to know.
Pros
- Enhanced Payout Potential: Expanding wilds multiply winning opportunities by covering entire reels and connecting multiple paylines.
- Dynamic Gameplay: The feature often brings re-spins or bonus-like moments, keeping gameplay exciting even in base rounds.
- ngaging Visuals: Expanding wilds are designed to impress. with it’s cascading lights or celebratory sound effects.
Cons
- Trigger Variability: Expanding wilds don’t always activate frequently, especially in high-volatility games. You may experience longer gaps between features.
- Dependence on High-Value Symbols: While wilds enhance payouts, the true potential often relies on aligning them with premium symbols, which isn’t guaranteed.
- Feature Limitation: Expanding wilds are typically restricted to specific reels (like the middle ones), which can narrow their impact on certain spins.
Pro Tips for Playing Pokies with Expanding Wilds
To get the most out of pokies with expanding wilds, it pays to have a game plan. Here’s how to chase this feature strategically while keeping your bankroll intact and your excitement levels high.
- Study Paylines: Games with more paylines give expanding wilds greater reach. Look for slots with flexible paylines or high symbol density to maximisMaximisinge your chances of a win.
- Start Small, Scale Smart: Begin with smaller bets to test the game’s frequency of activating expanding wilds. If you notice consistent triggers, consider increasing your wager strategically.
- Set Limits: Decide beforehand how much you’re willing to spend chasing the feature. Stick to your budget to ensure a fun and stress-free experience.
- Bet Strategically: Betting on all paylines, even at a lower value, increases the likelihood of capitalising on expanding wilds when they appear.
- Chase Chains: In games where wilds trigger re-spins (like Starburst), focus on maintaining balance to ride out dry spells and catch potential chain reactions.
With these strategies, you’ll not only increase your chances of enjoying expanding wilds but also make your gameplay more rewarding and sustainable. Always remember, pokies are about entertainment first—winning is just the cherry on top!
Conclusion
Expanding wilds are just one of many features in a pokie.
While not every online pokies game will offer expanding wilds, there are plenty that do. You'll find them in games from some of the world’s top software developers. So you can be guaranteed to find high-quality graphics, sound and a fun gaming experience.
Like all other symbols, expanding symbols aren't guaranteed to give you a win. So make sure that you're enjoying the thrill of the game rather than just chasing the cash. We recommend trying out a few games in demo mode before working out which one's right for you.
Enjoy!
Ryan is our resident pokies expert. Not only does he provide readers with the latest insights, innovations and technology news related to pokies, but he also knows all there is to know about pokies game developers.
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