9 Masks of Fire Review
A collaboration between slot giants Microgaming and the smaller studio Gameburger Studios, 9 Masks of Fire is a quirky slot with an African-inspired theme. After being released in October 2019, this slot quickly gained a lot of popularity as fans were drawn to its seemingly simple format that is packed with exciting features.
Setting
The imagery used in 9 Masks of Fire takes you to the African savannah with a beautiful sunset spanning the background as flames lick around the reels and red sparks sail through the sky. The background music throughout the game reinforces this setting with drumbeats and tribal shouting when certain features appear on the slot.
The symbols that appear in-game work to set the scene such as the game logo to the top left of the reel, a golden tribal mask with blue eyes surrounded by tribal patterns. The tribal mask appears in the reel also along with cherries, BAR, 77, a bell, a spear and shield and a diamond.
Gameplay
This slot adds a new dynamic to a classic 7’s. The aim of the game is simple; collect as many masks as possible in a single spin. If you collect all 9 masks you have the chance to win an incredible 2000x your original bet, this decreases to 500x with 8 masks all the way down to 1x with only 3 masks. The gold masks are also scatter symbols and the number of masks you are able to collect will trigger different bonus features and rewards. Another exciting feature that adds something different to 9 Masks of Fire is the diamond wild symbol that replaces all over symbols except for the free spin spear and shield and the mask.
9 Masks of Fire is a medium volatility slot and creates an even balance of frequent low-value wins and infrequent high value wins. The RTP of the slot is 96.24% which is good at slightly above average compared to slot games with similar volatility. The RTP rate can vary, however.
For new players to the game, the help button in the top left-hand corner is full of information about every aspect of the slot such as the game rules, pay-outs and auto-plays feature. Also, below the reel on either side of the spin button are multiple features that you use to change the game you are playing. You can choose to increase or decrease the bet you are making from 0.20 to 240, as this changes so does the possible jackpots for receiving different numbers of masks in the game. For players that do not enjoy the audio and graphics put into 9 Masks of Fire, you are able to mute the game and also select a quick spin feature that takes all of the animations between spins out of the game. The auto spin feature is also available to save the user pressing the spin button again and again, you can choose to put this on for x10, x25, x50 and x100 spins.
If you like the sound of 9 Masks of Fire however do not have a desktop to hand you will be glad to know that is compatible across mobile phones and tablets with an internet connection. The software, released in October 2019 means you can play 9 Masks of Fire on the move whenever you want.
Bonus features
Undoubtedly, the most exciting feature of 9 Masks of Fire is its bonus free spins round. To unlock this round, simply collect 3 free spin symbols across the 2nd, 3rd and 4th reels and the bonus round will be automatically triggered. During the bonus feature, a maximum of 30 free spins can be earned, plus you get the chance to earn even more free spins should more scatter symbols land on your reels during the free spins round. Throughout the free spin bonus round, wins are multiplied, for example, 10-20 free spins come with a 2x multiplier and 20-30 free spins with a 3x multiplier.
Game providers
Situated on the Isle of Man, Microgaming is one of the most successful and popular slot development companies of all time. With such successful titles under their belt as Book of Oz and Fruit Blast, there is pressure on 9 Masks of Fire to live up to the reputation however it is clear this is already one of their best slots to date. Microgaming has become well known for its work and collaboration with smaller studios, and 9 Masks of Fire is a perfect example of this. Although Gameburger is significantly smaller than Microgaming, they already have some impressive game titles under their belt including Playboy Fortunes, 11 Champions and 9 Pots of Gold Slot. The two developers truly come together on this slot and combine the best of what their companies have to offer. The result is an intriguing slot with a dark and mysterious theme that is sure to captivate players instantly.
Casino77 Verdict
We believe 9 Masks of Fire lives up to the hype created by other Microgaming collaborations and that they alongside Gameburger have produced a masterpiece both visually and in terms of enjoyment. The brilliant background and related sounds and symbols create a coherent narrative to the slot and ultimately the hunt for masks. The multipliers and free spins that can be won keep any gamer invested in the experience with a generous RTP and validity for a slot of this type it appears to tick all of the boxes. Find out for yourself here.
