Book Of Ra
Book of Ra: The Legendary Slot Game
We present Book of Ra as the slot that has defined the Egyptian adventure in Canadian arcades and online casinos. Since its release in 2005 by Austrian developer Novomatic, this classic has shaped an entire generation of players. The concept is simple yet brilliant: we accompany a daring explorer into mysterious tombs, discover ancient treasures, and immerse ourselves in a world full of mysteries.
The atmosphere is created by the distinctive soundtrack and unmistakable graphics. Each symbol tells its own story – from the golden pharaoh to the mystical book itself. This visual language is so catchy that it has long become part of the cultural memory of players.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Developer | Novomatic (Greentube) |
| Release (Classic) | 2005 |
| Theme | Ancient Egypt, Adventure |
| Reels | 5 |
| Rows | 3 |
| Paylines | Up to 10 (adjustable) |
| Volatility | High |
| Main Feature | Free spins with expanding bonus symbol |
| Payout Rate (RTP) | Approx. 95.10% |
The Path to Cult Status in Canada
Book of Ra did not become famous overnight. We watched as the game first gained a foothold in gaming halls and later made the leap to the Internet. This continuity built trust among players. The Egyptian theme appeals to a broad audience without being overly complex.
The high volatility ensures an intense gaming experience. Sometimes the wins are scarce, and then suddenly they explode. This emotional rollercoaster is addictive and explains why Book of Ra has become more than just a game – it's an experience.
Official Presence and Brand Management
Novomatic does not operate a central website for Book of Ra as a real money game. Instead, its Greentube subsidiary licenses the game to reputable online casinos. On the developer’s websites, you’ll find background information, updates on new versions, and technical details.
The visual identity is strictly controlled. Logos, artworks, and animations come directly from Greentube. This way, players everywhere get the authentic original experience. Official trailers and media content clearly communicate the game’s concept, while new versions are announced transparently. Canadian localization is reflected in language and cultural adaptations.
Game Rules and Functionality
Game Field Layout
We present Book of Ra on a tried-and-tested 5x3 game field with five reels and three rows of symbols. The Deluxe version offers up to 10 selectable paylines, while the Classic variant features a maximum of 9 lines. Our goal is to collect matching symbols from left to right on the active paylines to achieve attractive wins.
Bets and Controls
Before each round, we jointly select the number of active paylines and the desired bet per line. The total bet is calculated by multiplying these two values. With a single click on “Start”, we set the reels in motion. The convenient Autostart feature allows for automatic spins with individually adjustable loss or win limits in accordance with legal requirements.
All settings are clearly displayed at all times. The complete game rules and payout tables are always available through the info menu.
Symbols and Their Values
We distinguish between low and high-paying symbol categories. Card symbols 10, J, Q, K, and A represent the lower values and require at least three matching symbols for a payout. Our thematic picture symbols—Scarab, Isis Statue, Pharaoh’s Sarcophagus, and Explorer—offer significantly higher wins and pay out with as few as two matches on a line.
The Book of Ra has a dual role as both Wild and Scatter symbol. As a Wild, it substitutes for all other symbols to complete winning combinations. In its Scatter function, it generates wins regardless of the paylines.
| Symbol | 2 of a Kind | 3 of a Kind | 4 of a Kind | 5 of a Kind |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Explorer | 10x | 100x | 1,000x | 5,000x |
| Pharaoh | 5x | 40x | 400x | 2,000x |
| Statue / Scarab | 5x | 30x | 100x | 750x |
| Ace / King | - | 5x | 40x | 150x |
| Queen / Jack / 10 | - | 5x | 25x | 100x |
| Book (Scatter) | - | 2x* | 20x* | 200x* |
| *Scatter wins are multiplied by the total bet. | ||||
Winning Mechanism
Wins are counted exclusively from left to right, starting from the first reel. Valid combinations consist of matching symbols without interruption on an active payline. Only the highest combination per line counts, while wins from different lines are added together.
The line win results from the symbol value in the table, multiplied by the line bet. Scatter wins from the Book symbol are an exception—they are awarded regardless of position whenever at least three Books appear on the reels.
The Gamble Feature
After every line win in the main round, we can choose to risk it in the Gamble feature. Here, the winnings are placed on the colour of the next revealed playing card—red or black. With a correct guess, the win is doubled. A wrong guess means the entire round’s winnings are lost. This feature can typically be used up to five times in a row or until the maximum win limit is reached.
Free Spins and Bonus Features
On our official page dedicated to the Canadian version of Book of Ra, we explain in detail how the popular bonus features work. The book symbol takes centre stage and serves two important functions: it acts as both a wild and a scatter symbol. In regular spins, it substitutes for other symbols, helping to complete winning paylines. At the same time, as a scatter, it triggers the coveted free spins round, no matter where it appears on the reels.
How Free Spins Are Triggered
As soon as three or more book symbols land anywhere on the reels, 10 free spins are automatically awarded. Your original bet amount and number of paylines are maintained, with no additional cost. During the free spins round, the book symbols remain active. They can appear again as scatters and trigger extra free spins.
A so-called "retrigger" with three or more books extends the bonus round by another 10 games. This can significantly boost your winning potential and greatly extend your playtime.
How the Special Symbol Works
At the start of every free spins round, the system randomly selects one symbol from the paytable to become the special symbol—except for the book itself. If this chosen symbol appears during a free spin, all regular line wins are calculated and paid out first.
Afterwards, the special symbol expands to cover the entire reel, provided there are enough symbols on the reels to form a win. The requirements differ depending on the symbol’s value:
- High-value picture symbols: Explorer, Pharaoh, Statue, and Scarab require at least 2 symbols on different reels
- Card symbols: 10, J, Q, K, and A require at least 3 symbols on different reels
The key advantage is that expanded symbols do not have to be adjacent. They pay out on all active paylines according to the paytable, regardless of their position.
Gamble Feature for Extra Excitement
After every line win in the main game and at the end of a free spins round, you can choose to use the gamble feature. Here, you try to guess the colour of the next hidden card—red or black. If you guess correctly, your winnings are doubled, and you can either gamble again or collect your money. A wrong guess, however, means losing the entire round’s winnings.
Transparency and Tracking
The game interface always clearly displays how many free spins remain and which special symbol is active. Every expansion is highlighted, and winnings are evaluated step by step. This allows you to closely follow every contribution of the expanding symbol and every function of the book symbol as a wild or scatter.
Game Variants: Classic, Deluxe, and Magic
We guide you through the most important versions of Book of Ra and show how the gaming experience has evolved between the different variants. Each version retains its signature core but brings its own improvements in graphics, mechanics, and bonus features. Over the years, Greentube (Novomatic) has developed an extensive series that appeals to different types of players.
Book of Ra Classic
The Classic version is the origin of the phenomenon and matches the original slot machine. The 5x3 reel setup with nine fixed paylines offers a straightforward, no-nonsense gaming experience. We especially appreciate the fast-paced gameplay and authentic retro charm.
The free spins round works according to the proven principle: A randomly chosen special symbol expands over the entire reel when it appears and pays out on all positions, regardless of the payline order. With an RTP of about 92.13%, this version falls below modern standards, but that only highlights its cult status.
Book of Ra Deluxe
The Deluxe variant is considered the most popular version and successfully modernizes the classic. An additional tenth payline increases the chance of winning, while improved graphics and smoother animations enhance the visual experience.
The core concept with expanding symbols in free spins remains, but the RTP has been raised to approximately 95.10%. The user interface, especially on mobile devices, has been significantly optimized. This version offers a successful balance between nostalgic feeling and contemporary slot features.
Book of Ra Magic
Magic focuses entirely on escalating free spin rounds. When the bonus round is retriggered, another special symbol is added. This process can repeat until, in theory, up to nine different symbols are active as expanding special symbols.
This mechanic significantly increases excitement and winning potential but leads to very high volatility. We recommend Magic for players seeking maximum thrill in bonus rounds and who are willing to accept longer dry spells.
Other Popular Variants
In addition to the three main versions, there are creative extensions of the core concept:
- Book of Ra Deluxe 6: Adds an optional sixth reel to the standard layout. The “Extra Bet” feature increases your stakes but allows for valuable six-symbol combinations.
- Book of Ra Deluxe 10: Revolutionizes the game field with two reel sets (5x4 and 5x12) and 100 paylines. Stacked wild symbols are transferred between the sets.
- Book of Ra Mystic Fortunes: Integrates four progressive jackpots (Mini, Minor, Major, Grand), which can be randomly triggered by book symbols.
Direct Comparison of the Versions
| Version | Layout | Paylines | Free Spin Feature | Volatility | RTP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Classic | 5x3 | 9 | 1 expanding symbol | High | 92.13% |
| Deluxe | 5x3 | 10 | 1 expanding symbol | High | 95.10% |
| Magic | 5x3 | 10 | Up to 9 expanding symbols | Very high | 95.03% |
| Deluxe 6 | 6x3 | 10 | 1 expanding symbol with 6-symbol combos | Very high | 95.03% |
RTP, Volatility and Winning Strategies
RTP Explained Simply
We explain the payout rate of Book of Ra so our visitors understand what to expect. The RTP value shows what percentage of bets is theoretically paid back to players. In the classic version, this is often only 92.13%, which is quite low.
Book of Ra Deluxe offers much better conditions at around 95.10%. These numbers are based on millions of game rounds and don’t say anything about individual sessions. We recommend always checking the RTP shown in the casino menu, as this reflects the actual configuration of the game.
Volatility and Win Patterns
Book of Ra is known for its high volatility. This means longer dry spells, but when wins do happen, they can be very large. Most payouts are focused in the bonus round with the expanding symbol.
The hit frequency in the Deluxe version is about 28%. Statistically, every fourth spin results in a win. That sounds good, but many of these wins don’t even cover your bet. The maximum win potential is 5,000 times your line bet for a full screen of the explorer symbol.
| Aspect | Value | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| RTP Classic | 92.13% | Low payout rate |
| RTP Deluxe | 95.10% | Fairer conditions |
| Volatility | High | Large fluctuations possible |
| Maximum Win | 5,000x line bet | Highest possible single win |
| Hit Frequency | 28% | Every fourth spin wins |
Budget and Betting Strategy
We recommend smaller bets per spin so your budget lasts for many rounds. The free spins are the heart of the game, so you need enough rounds to trigger them. All paylines should always stay active.
Having a set budget is essential. We set a stop-loss limit and a realistic win goal. If the free spins deliver a bigger win, we split it: withdraw part, and use the rest as a new budget. If the money’s gone, we stop playing. Each spin is a random event, no matter what happened before.
Reputable Online Casinos with a German License
German License as a Mark of Quality
We recommend only providers with a valid license under the 2021 Interstate Gambling Treaty. The Joint Gambling Authority of the States monitors these licenses and ensures fair gaming conditions. As players, we benefit from certified games and comprehensive protection measures.
Novomatic only provides Book of Ra to licensed partners. Direct play with the developer is not possible. This regulation protects us from counterfeit versions and guarantees legitimate payouts.
Identifying Legal Providers
We have developed a checklist that makes it easy to recognize reputable casinos quickly:
GGL Whitelist
The provider must be listed on the official gambling authority whitelist. Only then can we be sure that a valid license for slot games is in place.
Transparent Information
In the legal notice, we find a German address and the exact GGL license number. If this information is missing, we should be cautious.
Player Protection Systems
Legal casinos are connected to OASIS—the nationwide self-exclusion system. A panic button allows us to trigger an immediate 24-hour self-block.
LUGAS Deposit Limits
We must set a monthly limit, which is set by default at a maximum of $1,500 CAD. The system monitors these limits across all providers.
Technical Restrictions
The maximum bet is $1.50 CAD per round. Each game round lasts at least 5 seconds. Autoplay and progressive jackpots are prohibited in slots.
Play Book of Ra Legally
At licensed providers, we go through a full registration process with identity verification. Only then can we deposit and play—sometimes this even applies to the demo mode.
The German regulations apply during every round. After 60 minutes, we automatically receive a reality check with information about playing time and results. These measures create a controlled environment where we can safely enjoy the original version of Book of Ra.