Book Of Ra
What is Book of Ra?
Book of Ra is one of the most famous slot machines from Novomatic (Greentube) and takes you on an adventurous journey to ancient Egypt. The game centers around an explorer searching for the legendary book of the sun god Ra. The slot first became popular in arcades and later gained many online fans in Canada. The simple gameplay and the chance to win big prizes through free spins are especially exciting. The classic version impresses with distinctive sound effects and a thrilling atmosphere, even though the graphics are simple, making it a unique experience for many players.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Core Data for Book of Ra Classic | |
|---|---|
| Provider | Novomatic (Greentube) |
| Release Year | 2005 |
| Reels / Rows | 5 / 3 |
| Paylines | Up to 9, adjustable individually |
| Payout Rate (RTP) | 92.13% |
| Volatility | High |
| Main Feature | 10 free spins with a randomly chosen, expanding bonus symbol |
| Theme | Egypt, Adventure |
Book of Ra Game Variations
Since the launch of the original by Novomatic, several versions of Book of Ra have been developed. You'll find the classic version, Book of Ra Classic, featuring 9 paylines and a traditional design. With Book of Ra Deluxe, you get modernized graphics and an additional payline, making a total of 10 lines. Later, Book of Ra 6 was introduced, offering the option for a sixth reel and new opportunities for bigger wins. Book of Ra Magic, on the other hand, stands out with a special feature in the free spins round: up to nine expanding special symbols can be activated.
Key Differences at a Glance
Each version caters to different player preferences. There are differences in paylines, payout percentages, and bonus features. The table below highlights the most important features:
| Version | Reels | Paylines | RTP | Special Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Book of Ra Classic | 5 | 9 | approx. 92.13% | Classic free spins feature |
| Book of Ra Deluxe | 5 | 10 | approx. 95.10% | Enhanced graphics, additional payline |
| Book of Ra 6 | 5 (+1 optional) | 10 | approx. 95.03% | Sixth reel for bigger wins |
| Book of Ra Magic | 5 | 10 | approx. 95.03% | Multiple expanding symbols in free spins |
How the Game Works
Basics and Paylines
Book of Ra offers you a classic slot experience with five reels. Depending on the version, you play with nine (Classic) or ten (Deluxe) paylines. The goal remains the same: Identical symbols must appear on an active line from left to right. High-value symbols pay out with just two matching images, while at least three identical symbols are needed for smaller wins.
Gameplay and Risk
You first decide how many lines you want to play and choose your bet in Canadian dollars. A click on Start sets the reels in motion. Winnings are automatically credited to your balance. After every win, you can choose whether to use the risk card game for a 50/50 chance to double your winnings.
Free Spins and the Book Symbol
The Book symbol serves two functions: it acts as a Wild to substitute for other symbols, and as a Scatter, it triggers ten free spins when you land three or more. Before the free spins begin, a regular symbol is chosen as a special symbol, which will expand across the entire reel during the free rounds and count on all paylines.
Symbols and Their Meanings
Meaning of the Main Symbols
In the Book of Ra slot, you'll encounter various symbols, each with special values and functions. The most valuable symbol is the Explorer, followed by the Pharaoh, the statue of the goddess Isis, and the Scarab. You can win with these picture symbols starting from just two matching symbols on an active payline. For smaller wins, there are the classic card symbols 10, J, Q, K, and A. Here, you’ll receive payouts starting from three matching symbols.
The Book Symbol
The Book of Ra is at the heart of the game. It plays two important roles: As a Wild symbol, it substitutes for all other symbols to help you complete winning combinations. At the same time, it acts as the Scatter symbol. As soon as three or more books appear anywhere on the reels, 10 free spins are triggered.
| Symbol | Meaning and Function |
|---|---|
| Explorer | Highest payout value. Five Explorers award the grand prize. |
| Pharaoh | Second highest paying symbol. |
| Statue / Scarab | Medium payout values in the game. |
| A, K | Higher value card symbols. |
| Q, J, 10 | Lower value card symbols for smaller wins. |
| Book of Ra | Wild: Substitutes for all other symbols. Scatter: Three or more trigger 10 free spins. |
Bonus Features and Free Spins
Triggering Free Spins
At the heart of Book of Ra’s bonus features are the free spins. If you land three or more book symbols anywhere on the reels, ten free spins are automatically triggered. Before the free spins begin, one symbol is randomly selected as the bonus symbol. During the free spins, this special symbol can expand to cover the entire reel after any win evaluation, leading to extra wins. These expanding symbols pay out even if they are not on adjacent reels.
Book Symbol and Additional Features
The book symbol plays a dual role. It acts as a wild, substituting for other symbols to create winning combinations. At the same time, it serves as a scatter and triggers the free spins. If you land three more book symbols during free spins, you receive another ten free spins. Depending on the value of the bonus symbol, you’ll need either two or three matches for it to expand and increase your winnings.
Gamble Feature
After any win, you can choose to use the gamble feature. Here, you wager your winnings on the colour of a playing card. If you guess correctly, your winnings are doubled. If you guess incorrectly, you lose your winnings from that round. This is an optional feature and offers a straightforward 50-50 chance.
Play Book of Ra for Free
Try the Demo Version
You can try Book of Ra for free at many online casinos. In the demo version, you play with virtual credits and don’t risk your own money. This is perfect for getting to know the gameplay and bonus features. Usually, you don’t need to register. Simply choose a casino offering Novomatic games, launch the Book of Ra slot, and select “Demo” or “Play for Free.” The game will then load with virtual balance. Set your bet and play just like in real money mode.
Differences Compared to the Real Money Version
When playing for free, you can test strategies without any risk and get familiar with the symbols and features. There are no real winnings, but also no financial risk. This way, you can easily get an overview. The following table shows the key differences:
| Feature | Demo Version | Real Money Version |
|---|---|---|
| Risk | No risk | Financial risk |
| Winnings | Virtual credits only | Real cash prizes |
| Features | All features available | All features available |
| Registration | Often no registration needed | Registration required |
Tips for More Fun While Playing
With a few simple tricks, you can get even more out of your Book of Ra experience. The high volatility may mean that wins are less frequent, but they’re often bigger. Decide at the start how much you want to spend and stick to this limit. This way, you can enjoy longer gaming sessions and be ready for free spins when it counts.
Adjust Your Bets Wisely
Since the size of your bet directly affects your winnings during free spins, it’s worth changing your bet size now and then. If you haven’t triggered free spins in a while, increasing your bet slightly can make the game more exciting and lead to bigger payouts if you win.
Use the Gamble Feature Strategically
After a win, you can take advantage of the card gamble feature. Doubling your winnings can be exciting, especially with smaller amounts. For larger wins, it’s better to claim your payout right away without risking it.
Don’t Forget to Take Breaks
Regular breaks help you stay focused and enjoy the game in a relaxed way.
Mobile Versions and Online Casinos
Book of Ra on Your Mobile
With HTML5, Book of Ra runs smoothly on smartphones and tablets. The mobile version responds directly to touch and works on both iOS and Android devices. You can choose to play directly in your mobile browser or use the provider’s app. In the browser, you simply open the game from the online casino’s website. Some casinos also offer their own app, which often loads especially fast and runs smoothly.
Where Can You Play Book of Ra Online
In Canada, you’ll find Book of Ra at online casinos that hold a valid gaming license. Make sure the casino displays the appropriate licensing symbol. The game is available on both desktop and mobile devices. Many providers also offer a demo mode. To use it, you usually need to complete full registration and verify your account, even if you’re not playing with real money.
Frequently Asked Questions about Book of Ra
Here you'll find concise answers to the most important questions about the Book of Ra slot machine. Everything you need to know about payout rates, free spins, demo versions, and mobile play at a glance.
What is the payout rate of Book of Ra?
Book of Ra Classic offers an RTP of around 92.13%. The Deluxe version increases the payout rate to about 95.10%, making it more appealing for many players.
How do free spins work in Book of Ra?
Three or more book symbols trigger 10 free spins. Before the spins begin, a special bonus symbol is randomly selected, which will expand during the free spins round.
Can you play Book of Ra for free?
Many online casinos offer a demo version. This lets you try the game risk-free and get to know all its features before playing with real Canadian dollars.
What role does the book symbol play?
The book acts as a wild and substitutes for other symbols. At the same time, it functions as a scatter and triggers the free spins round when it appears multiple times.
Can you play Book of Ra on mobile?
All current versions are optimized for smartphones and tablets. You can play directly in your browser, whether on iOS or Android, without needing an extra app.