Multiplier Wilds Explained: How They Work and The Top 5 Games
Did you know a single multiplier wild can turn a modest $50 win into a jaw-dropping $500 payout? This game-changing feature is why multiplier wilds have become a fan favourite in online pokies.
Unlike regular wilds, multiplier wilds don’t just substitute symbols—they multiply your wins, sometimes by as much as x5 or more. It’s the kind of feature that transforms ordinary spins into extraordinary moments of excitement.
In this guide, our pokies experts will share everything you need to know about multiplier wilds, from how they work to the best games featuring this mechanic. Whether you’re here to maximise your wins or simply understand why this feature is a must-have, you’re in the right place.
Ready to uncover the secrets of multiplier wilds? Let’s spin into it!
What Are Multiplier Wilds?
Multiplier wilds are one of the most exciting features in online pokies, designed to do more than just substitute symbols—they actively boost your payouts. Unlike standard wilds, these symbols multiply the winnings of any payline they contribute to, offering values like 2x, 3x, or even higher.
What sets multiplier wilds apart is their versatility. Some games feature fixed multipliers (e.g., every wild multiplies wins by 3x), while others offer dynamic multipliers that increase based on certain conditions, such as consecutive wins or triggering bonus rounds.
In rare cases, multiplier wilds stack, compounding their effects for potentially massive payouts. For example, two 3x multiplier wilds on the same payline could result in a 9x total multiplier.
These wilds aren’t just functional—they’re often accompanied by unique visuals, such as glowing numbers or energetic animations, and engaging sound effects that heighten the excitement when they appear. Multiplier wilds add a strategic layer to gameplay, as players anticipate their impact on winning paylines.
How Common Are Multiplier Wilds?
The appearance of multiplier wilds varies depending on a game’s design, with their frequency tied to volatility and bonus mechanics. In high-volatility pokies, these wilds are rarer, often appearing during free spins or bonus rounds, but when they do, the payouts can be massive. Medium-volatility games, however, tend to feature them more regularly, offering consistent chances for boosted wins.
Multiplier wilds typically land on central reels (like 2, 3, and 4) to maximise their impact on paylines. Some games, though, keep players guessing by scattering them across the grid. When they do appear, their effects are immediate—doubling, tripling, or even multiplying wins by up to 10x.
These wilds shine in games with cascading reels or multi-tiered bonuses, where they can chain together for jaw-dropping payouts.
How Do Multiplier Symbols Work?
Mechanics
Multiplier wilds are triggered when a designated wild symbol lands on the reels. Once active, they multiply the payouts of any paylines they form part of. Depending on the game, multipliers may be fixed (e.g., every wild applies a 2x multiplier) or variable, scaling based on gameplay conditions like the number of wilds on the reels or progress in a bonus round.
In some games, multiplier wilds stack, allowing for cumulative effects. For instance, two 2x wilds in a payline multiply your winnings by 4x. Advanced features in games like Buffalo King Megaways even include cascading reels where multiplier wilds increase incrementally with each cascade, creating enormous payout potential.
Triggers
Multiplier wilds typically appear in the base game or bonus rounds. Some games feature them on specific reels—usually the middle ones (2, 3, or 4)—where they maximise their impact on paylines. Bonus rounds often increase their frequency, adding layers of excitement and higher winning potential.
Variability
The value of multiplier wilds can vary significantly between games, ranging from modest 2x boosts to enormous 10x multipliers or higher. Games like Dead or Alive 2 take this further by introducing wild multipliers that can stack across paylines, turning modest wins into monumental payouts.
Visuals and Sounds
When multiplier wilds activate, expect dynamic visuals like glowing symbols, animated explosions, or cascading effects. These are often paired with celebratory chimes or energetic sound effects, creating a memorable moment that keeps players engaged.
Top 5 Pokies With Multiplier Wilds
So, how do you know which pokies are worth playing in search of a winning combination? That's where we come in.
Based on years of experience playing multiplier pokies, we've put together some of our favourite pokies games for you to check out. And they're available at many online casinos in Australia.
1. Deadwood
Deadwood by Nolimit City is a gritty, high-volatility pokie that puts multiplier wilds front and centre, offering explosive payout potential through its signature feature: the xNudge Multiplier Wilds.
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Feature Trigger | Activates when the wild symbol lands partially on reels 2, 3, or 4. |
| Payout Potential | Max win of 13,950x your stake, achievable through stacking multipliers and bonus rounds |
| Odds/Frequency | Medium frequency in base gameplay, with higher occurrence during Shootout Spins and Gunslinger bonuses. |
Feature Mechanics: The xNudge System
In Deadwood, multiplier wilds manifest as towering stacks that nudge into full view when they land partially on the reels. This “nudge” mechanic adds a level of suspense to each spin, as every nudge increases the wild's multiplier by +1. For example, a wild fully nudged into place on reel 3 can multiply winnings by up to 4x. The feature becomes even more electrifying when multiple multiplier wilds land on different reels, as their effects stack together for exponentially larger payouts.
- Nudging Multiplier Wilds: If a wild symbol lands partially on reels 2, 3, or 4, it nudges into full view, increasing its multiplier with each nudge. For instance, a wild covering two spaces nudging into three will apply a 3x multiplier.
- Bonus Round Boosts:
- Shootout Spins: Multiplier wilds interact with sticky high-value symbols, driving massive payouts when reels align.
- Gunslinger Spins: Every nudge adds to the total multiplier, turning the round into a high-risk, high-reward frenzy.
Potential Payouts
The xNudge multiplier wilds are pivotal in unlocking Deadwood’s max win potential of 13,950x your stake. By stacking multiple wilds across reels 2, 3, and 4 during the Gunslinger Spins, players can achieve extraordinary payouts. High-value symbols like gold bars or whiskey bottles amplify these rewards, making every spin feel like a thrilling heist.
Visuals and Sound Effects
Deadwood immerses players in its Western outlaw setting with gritty, cinematic animations and tension-filled sound effects. When multiplier wilds nudge into place, the screen pulses with golden glows and dramatic slow-motion effects, emphasising the magnitude of the potential win. The accompanying soundtrack—complete with gunshots and whistling winds—sets the stage for high-stakes action.
Why It Stands Out
What sets Deadwood apart is its xNudge multiplier wilds, a feature that adds layers of anticipation and strategy to every spin. The ability to stack multipliers across multiple reels during bonus rounds elevates the game to a class of its own. Combined with Nolimit City’s signature bold design and immersive mechanics, Deadwood delivers an experience that’s as rewarding as it is unforgettable.
2. Chaos Crew
Launched by Hacksaw Gaming, Chaos Crew breaks the mold of traditional pokies with its edgy visuals and volatile gameplay. Its multiplier wilds are at the heart of the chaos, delivering massive payout potential with every spin.
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Feature Trigger | Activated when the “Cranky Cat” symbol lands on any reel. |
| Payout Potential | Max win of 10,000x your stake, driven by stacked multipliers and bonus rounds. |
| Odds/Frequency | Medium frequency during base gameplay, with higher appearances in the Free Spins feature. |
What Are Chaos Crew’s Multiplier Wilds?
In Chaos Crew, multiplier wilds are embodied by the rebellious “Cranky Cat” symbol, a graffiti-style design that adds a wild edge to the reels. Each time a Cranky Cat wild lands, it applies a random multiplier (ranging from 2x to 20x) to its respective reel. These wilds not only enhance winning combinations but can also stack across paylines, creating explosive payout opportunities.
Feature Mechanics
- Base Game Activation: Multiplier wilds appear randomly during the base game, often combining to create unpredictable and exciting wins.
- Free Spins Synergy: In the Free Spins round, multiplier wilds become persistent, stacking with every spin to increase payouts exponentially. The tension builds as multipliers accumulate, transforming smaller wins into massive rewards.
- Random Range: The multipliers applied by Cranky Cat wilds vary between 2x and 20x, keeping players on their toes and amplifying the volatility.
Payout Potential
The combination of stacked multiplier wilds and bonus round mechanics can lead to Chaos Crew’s impressive max payout of 10,000x your stake. High-value symbols like skulls and graffiti add to the thrill, especially when aligned with multiple wilds.
Visuals and Sound Effects
Chaos Crew brings its multiplier wilds to life with electric animations, including vibrant bursts of color and edgy sound effects. The punk-rock aesthetic perfectly complements the high-energy gameplay, making every spin feel like a high-stakes adventure.
Why It Stands Out
Chaos Crew’s multiplier wilds are a perfect match for its volatile, high-risk gameplay. Their ability to stack and persist during free spins creates moments of pure adrenaline, making it a standout title for thrill-seekers.
3. Griffin's Quest
Developed by Kalamba Games, Griffin’s Quest takes players on a mythical journey where multiplier wilds bring legendary payouts. With stunning visuals and immersive mechanics, this game seamlessly integrates expanding wilds into both base gameplay and bonus rounds.
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Feature Trigger | Activated when wild symbols land on reels 2, 3, or 4. |
| Payout Potential | Max win of 26,000x your stake with optimal multiplier chains. |
| Odds/Frequency | Moderate frequency during the base game, with increased chances in the HyperBonus feature. |
What Are Griffin’s Quest’s Multiplier Wilds?
Multiplier wilds in Griffin’s Quest are represented by golden griffin emblems, which apply multipliers to any win they’re part of. These wilds shine brightest in the HyperBonus round, where they interact with expanding reels to create massive winning opportunities.
Feature Mechanics
Expanding Reels: Multiplier wilds pair with expanding reels to extend paylines and enhance payouts.
Bonus Round Focus: During the HyperBonus feature, multiplier wilds appear more frequently and stack across paylines, offering the potential for extraordinary wins.
Strategic Placement: Multiplier wilds land primarily on the middle reels, maximising their impact on active paylines.
Payout Potential
With multiplier wilds in play, Griffin’s Quest boasts a max payout of 26,000x your stake. High-value symbols like mythical creatures amplify the stakes, especially when aligned with multiplier wilds during bonus rounds.
Visuals and Sound Effects
The golden griffin wilds come to life with dazzling animations and soaring sound effects. Each multiplier activation feels like a triumphant moment, immersing players in the game’s mythical world.
Why It Stands Out
Griffin’s Quest combines multiplier wilds with unique reel mechanics, creating a dynamic and engaging gameplay experience. The HyperBonus feature elevates its appeal, offering high rollers and casual players alike a chance at mythical rewards.
4. Lil Devil (BTG)
Created by Big Time Gaming, Lil Devil is a high-volatility pokie that pairs its rock-inspired theme with multiplier wilds for a devilishly good time. This game is known for its dynamic gameplay and massive win potential.
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Feature Trigger | Activated when angel or devil symbols land on designated reels. |
| Payout Potential | Max win of 36,403x your stake during the bonus rounds. |
| Odds/Frequency | Low frequency, as multiplier wilds are tied to high-volatility bonus rounds. |
What Are Lil Devil’s Multiplier Wilds?
Multiplier wilds in Lil Devil come in two forms: angel wilds and devil wilds. Angel wilds can apply multipliers as high as 144x, creating colossal payout potential. These wilds are most impactful during the Heartstopper Enhanced Free Spins feature, where they stack for exponential wins.
Feature Mechanics
- Base Game Appearance: Multiplier wilds land on reels 2 and 4, substituting for all symbols except scatters.
- Heartstopper Mode: During the Enhanced Free Spins, multiplier wilds stack and can reach up to 144x, creating one of the game’s most rewarding mechanics.
- Symbol Pairing: Aligning wilds with premium symbols like crocodiles and hearts significantly boosts payouts.
Payout Potential
The staggering max payout of 36,403x your stake is achievable by chaining multiplier wilds with high-value symbols during bonus rounds. The Enhanced Free Spins mode is key to unlocking Lil Devil’s full potential.
Visuals and Sound Effects
The angel and devil wilds light up the reels with fiery animations and rock-inspired sound effects, perfectly complementing the game’s edgy theme. Each multiplier activation feels like a crescendo in a thrilling rock anthem.
Why It Stands Out
Lil Devil’s multiplier wilds are among the most lucrative in the genre, offering high-risk, high-reward gameplay. The Heartstopper mode adds a layer of anticipation and strategy, making this game a must-play for serious pokie fans.
5. Star Bounty
Released by Pragmatic Play, Star Bounty takes players to a futuristic battlefield where multiplier wilds are the secret weapon for unlocking epic wins. The game’s innovative design and explosive mechanics make it a standout title.
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Feature Trigger | Activated during free spins, triggered by scatter symbols. |
| Payout Potential | Max win of 25,920x your stake through stacked multiplier wilds. |
| Odds/Frequency | Low frequency, as multiplier wilds are primarily tied to bonus rounds. |
What Are Star Bounty’s Multiplier Wilds?
In Star Bounty, multiplier wilds are represented by energy-infused hexagonal symbols. These wilds apply multipliers ranging from 2x to 5x, stacking during the Free Spins feature to deliver out-of-this-world payouts.
Feature Mechanics
- Scatter Activation: Multiplier wilds only appear during free spins, triggered by three or more scatter symbols.
- Cascading Wins: Each cascade increases the chance of landing additional wilds, maximising the multiplier effect.
- Strategic Wilds: The placement of multiplier wilds across multiple reels ensures their impact on paylines is maximised.
Payout Potential
The max win of 25,920x your stake is achievable through stacked multiplier wilds in the Free Spins feature. Cascading reels and random multipliers amplify the payout potential, keeping players engaged.
Visuals and Sound Effects
Star Bounty’s multiplier wilds burst onto the reels with electric animations and sci-fi soundscapes. The futuristic design creates an immersive experience, making every spin feel like a mission for riches.
Why It Stands Out
Star Bounty pairs its multiplier wilds with innovative mechanics and a high-tech theme, creating a unique and rewarding gameplay experience. The feature’s potential for colossal payouts ensures it remains a favourite among players.
Types of Multiple Wild Symbols
There are a few different types of multiple wild symbols you can find in online pokies.
Let's look at some of the most common ones you'll find at an online casino site in Australia.
Stacked Multiplier Wilds
Persistent Multiplier Wilds
Cascading Multiplier Wilds
Chaining Multiplier Wilds
Other Pokie Features
Conclusion
Multipliers are a fun pokie feature that is available on most pokies at some of Australia's best casino sites.
Although they might not be the newest or fanciest online pokies feature, they still give you the chance to win extra cash - which is always a good thing!
Based on our experience, we recommend trying out some of our favourite games in demo mode so you can try them before using any of your own money!
Have fun, and we hope these symbols can improve your chances of winning next time you spin the reels!
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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