Overview
Thunderstruck 2 from Microgaming is a remarkable slot game, boasting an array of divine features and limitless potential. Its position as a Norse mythology benchmark and pioneer remains undisputed. The original Thunderstruck, launched in the mid-noughties, gained immense popularity among gamers. Its sequel was announced at the London iGaming conference in 2010 and sparked widespread interest. Thunderstruck II has since become one of the most popular slots ever released, despite its appearance not being cutting edge to younger gamers. Its cinematic quality remains impressive, evoking the same impact it had upon its initial launch. The Norse gods are portrayed in unparalleled splendor in this game and have seldom looked better since Thunderstruck II’s release.
Gameplay
Thunderstruck II by Microgaming features a classic reel format that was groundbreaking when it was released. The game has 5 reels, 3 rows, and 243 ways to win, making it easy for players to win by landing three or more matching symbols consecutively from left to right on any row. The game’s many win ways were a revolution at the time and are a key reason for Thunderstruck II’s appeal. Additionally, the game’s graphics, although not immediately apparent with just a bit of thematic trim surrounding the reels, are impressive. In-game animations and a powerful score create a strong sensorial impression that enhances the playing experience.
To take on the mightiest inhabitants of Valhalla, players can set bets from 30 p/c per spin up to £/€15. The game offers a generous RTP rating of 96.65% coupled with a low volatility setting, contrary to popular belief. While wins may land more frequently on the smaller side, Thunderstruck II is capable of sizable payouts.
To win, players must line up symbols, including 12 regular and several special ones. The regular symbols start with 9-A royals in a strong stone format, followed by a ship, the Bifrost to Valhalla, a Valkyrie, Loki, Odin, and Thor. The values range from 1.67 times the stake for five ‘9s’ to 16.67 times the stake for five Thor symbols. The Logo Wild is particularly useful as it substitutes for any other pay symbol and doubles the value of any combination it is a part of. The Logo is also a highly lucrative symbol in its own right, with a combo of five worth 33.33 times the stake.
Features of Thunderstruck 2
There’s a lot to cover with the numerous features offered in this game, even more than Thor’s collection of hammers. Some of these features require effort to obtain, while others can show up at any given time. One such feature is the Wildstorm, which has the potential to emerge during any base game spin.
Although lightning storms aren’t always favorable, they’re one of the best things that can happen here. During the Wildstorm feature, Thor jumps onto the grid and electrifies the game by transforming up to five reels completely wild. This can lead to surprisingly profitable outcomes. Particularly since all reels going wild is worth an astonishing 8,100 times the stake.
Free Spins and Bonuses
The Great Hall of Spins feature is equally as thrilling, offering four variations with distinct rewards and modifiers. These variations begin with Valkyrie free spins and are unlocked in sequential order as players activate the bonus rounds. The essential element is the Mjolnir scatter symbol since three or more of them trigger the bonus feature, offering the following:
Valkyrie is accessible from the first bonus game trigger and grants 10 free spins with all winnings multiplied by x5. Valkyrie free spins can be re-triggered.
Loki is available from the fifth bonus trigger and comes with 15 free spins and the Wild Magic Feature. In this feature, the Wild Magic symbol randomly transforms other symbols into additional Wild Magic symbols when it appears on reel 3. During the bonus game, 2, 3, 4, or 5 bonus symbols re-trigger 1, 2, 3 or 4 free spins, respectively.
Odin is available from the tenth trigger of the bonus and awards 20 free spins with the Wild Raven feature. Two ravens perch above the reels and occasionally descend to convert symbols into 2x or 3x multipliers. If both ravens appear, they can grant an x6 multiplier.
Thor is available from the 15th trigger of the bonus game and brings 25 free spins with the Rolling Reels feature. Rolling Reels remove winning combinations from the grid to let new symbols drop into the gaps for more winning chances on a single free spin. Additionally, the win multiplier increases after the first win to x2, x3, x4, and x5 with each consecutive Rolling Reel win. This multiplier is reset back to x1 for the next new free spin.
Finally, the Mjolnir scatter symbol offers one last incentive. Two, three, four, or five in view from any position are worth a payout of 1x, 2x, 20x, or 200x the stake, respectively.
Thunderstruck 2 Strategy
Good strategy for playing Thunderstruck 2 is to focus on unlocking the game’s unique features. The game has a variety of bonus rounds. Including the Great Hall of Spins, which is triggered by landing three or more scatter symbols. This round has four levels, each offering different rewards. Players can gradually unlock them by triggering the feature multiple times. Additionally, players should aim to trigger the Wildstorm feature, which can occur randomly during gameplay and can potentially turn up to five reels completely wild. By taking advantage of these features and betting strategically, players can increase their chances of hitting big payouts in Thunderstruck 2.
Summary
Thunderstruck II is undeniably one of the most sought-after online slots, even on paper. It not only surpasses its predecessor, but also redefines the possibilities of what slot games can achieve. This game has become an instant hit and still maintains a dedicated fan base of both old and new players.
Microgaming deserves all the accolades for Thunderstruck II’s success, as there are multiple reasons behind it. Firstly, the game’s sensory impact of visuals, animations, sound effects, and cinematic quality is impressive. Although the game is slightly outdated, it still competes well with modern, younger slots in terms of appearance.
Secondly, the gameplay is exceptional. Microgaming hit the jackpot with the 243 win ways mechanic, and Thunderstruck II was one of the first games to make the most of this feature. Additionally, the game’s features are both entertaining and profitable. The Wildstorm feature keeps the base game exciting and offers tremendous potential that can strike at any moment.
Furthermore, the game’s shelf life is expanded by the way bonus games are earned, making playing Thunderstruck II a gratifying experience. Each bonus game has something uniquely exciting to offer, making it a matter of personal preference to decide which one is the best.
Some classic slots are played out of curiosity to see how they fit into the gaming world’s evolution. Thunderstruck II commands respect in this regard, but it is also a game that remains as relevant and fun to play as ever. Although there are numerous Norse mythology slots available, Thunderstruck II still holds its ground with the best of them.
