Reel Gems

3.8
Review by
Alex Clark
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Pros & Cons
Pros
  • 243 ways to win enhance matching flexibility
  • Wide betting range from $0.25 to $250
  • Hefty jackpot of 120,000 coins available
Cons
  • Minimum bet starts a bit higher at $0.25
Reel Gems Details
Software
Microgaming
Release Date
Oct 08, 2010
RTP
96.52%
Volatility
Medium
Paylines
243
Rows
3
Reels
5
Bet Size
$0.3 - 250.0
Max Win
120000
Themes
3D, Jewels, Luxury , Retro +1
Features
Free Spins, Multiplier, Re-Spins , Scatter, Wild +2

Reel Gems Slot Guide

Reel Gems is an opulent online slot that lures players with the promise of wealth through its sparkling array of precious gemstones. Developed by Microgaming, a leader in the online gaming software industry, this casino game was released in 2010 and quickly became notable for its simplistic yet captivating gameplay. In the lavish world of Reel Gems online, players are treated to a playing field consisting of 5 reels and 3 rows, offering 243 ways to win that discard the conventional payline system, simplifying the betting experience.

Distinguished by its lack of complicated storylines, the slot captures the attention with quality animations and a sound design that enriches the user experience with soft, classical music and the familiar sounds of a casino slot. With an impressive return-to-player (RTP) rate of 96.52% and medium volatility, Reel Gems stands out with a balanced mix of frequent payouts and opportunities for significant wins, which can peak at the advertised max win of 120,000 coins. Its unique ReSpin feature adds an interactive twist, allowing players to spin individual reels alongside a generous free spin round, making this slot machine an attractive option for casual spinners and high rollers.

Reel Gems Gameplay & Rules

Mastering the Reel Gems slot machine involves understanding its 243-way-to-win format, eliminating traditional paylines and simplifying the pursuit of winning combinations. The game’s structure is straightforward yet refined, making it accessible for novices while maintaining ample excitement for savvy players. With no paylines, the focus shifts to the game’s additional features and bonus rounds.

The RTP of 96.52% lays a solid foundation compared to similar casino slots, suggesting fair winning chances over time. The game rules are straightforward: wins are secured by matching symbols on adjacent reels, beginning from the leftmost reel. Reel Gems’ medium volatility offers a harmonious blend of occasional large jackpots and smaller, frequent rewards, accommodating a variety of bankroll strategies.

How to Play

Navigating the Reel Gems slot is intuitive, as the interface is crafted with player usability in mind. The gameplay integrates controls that blend seamlessly into the design and are straightforward. Noteworthy buttons include:

  • Coin Value: Adjusts the denomination of the coins players wager.
  • Bet Size: Alters the volume of coins bet per spin.
  • Spin: The main button to initiate a single spin with the set bet size.
  • Auto-Play: Enables an automated sequence of spins.
  • Game Information: Provides essential details regarding paytables and game rules.
  • Mute: Turns the slot’s sounds on or off, catering to the player’s preference.

An intriguing choice lies within the unique ReSpin button, positioned below each reel for individual spins at an added cost, providing a level of gameplay control that is rare in video slots.

To play Reel Gems, one adjusts their desired coin value and bet size and hits the Spin button to activate the reels. With a bet range accommodating $0.25 to $250 per spin, the game caters to a diverse array of players. The user-friendly approach extends to various betting options, ensuring that high-stakes players seeking the thrill of big wins and those in practice play can enjoy the luxury.

Game Rules

Reel Gems Game Symbols

The symbols that define its visual appeal and the in-game mechanics are at the heart of the Reel Gems gameplay. Embracing the luxury theme, the symbols exude vibrancy and opulence with various coloured gemstones that tie into the pursuit of creating winning combinations. While gem-encrusted slots are commonplace, Reel Gems distinguishes itself by focusing exclusively on these symbols of wealth, aligning with current trends while nodding to the vintage appeal of classic slots.

In this glittering array, the Diamond symbol is the most coveted, promising the highest payout and epitomising the pursuit of riches in the Reel Gems online game. Following close in value are the Ruby, Emerald, Sapphire, and Yellow Quartz, alluring players with their visual splendour and potential for hefty rewards. Complementing these are the lower-value symbols, represented by playing card icons that maintain the game’s elegant theme while contributing to more frequent, albeit smaller, payouts.

Paytable

Symbolsx2x3x4x5
 SymbolDiamond0.41.616160
 SymbolRuby0.2110100
 SymbolEmerald-0.8880
 SymbolSapphire-0.6660
 SymbolYellow Quartz-0.4440
 SymbolAce-0.21.28
 SymbolKing-0.21.28
 SymbolQueen-0.160.86
 SymbolJack-0.160.86
 SymbolTen-0.080.484
 SymbolNine-0.080.484

Special Symbols

In the mesmerising journey of Reel Gems play, special symbols serve as key elements that enrich the reels with more than just monetary value—they often bring forth engaging bonus rounds and additional chances to win real money.

  • The Wild Symbol: This symbol represents the lauded “Reel Gems” brand and is pivotal to the reels. It substitutes for other symbols, excluding the Scatter, to complete winning lines. It is found exclusively on reels 2 and 4 and flips the odds favourably without manifesting as its paying symbol.
  • The Scatter Symbol: Indicated by a glinting Diamond Ring, this Scatter is the linchpin for unlocking the Free Spins feature, serving a dual role of completing scatter wins and providing access to the most coveted part of the game. A trio or more symbols catapults players into a bonus realm where wins are amplified, illustrating the Scatter’s vital role in pursuing Reel Gems’ max win.

In integrating the Scatter and Wild into the gameplay, Microgaming has imbued the slot with a richness that resonates well within the player reviews and ratings, reflecting its ability to offer significant payouts and memorable moments.

Reel Gems Slot Features

Reel Gems has bonus features that exemplify Microgaming’s flair for immersive and rewarding experiences within its video slots. These extras align seamlessly with the game’s abundant theme and are pivotal in augmenting the gaming excitement and providing unique winning possibilities.

Free Spins

The Free Spins Feature in Reel Gems is a glittering prospect to slot aficionados, evoked by the shimmering Diamond Ring scatter symbols. The anticipation of landing three or more of these across the reels rewards players with 15 free spins. All wins during this round are multiplied by three, substantially upping the ante for considerable hit frequency and increasing the potential for a sizable addition to one’s bankroll. If the reels align to reveal an additional sequence of Scatter symbols during the round, the free spins will reset, extending the player’s fortunes in this thrilling bonus round.

Free Spins

Respin Feature

A distinguishing characteristic of Reel Gems is the innovative Respin Feature, providing an avenue for strategic player involvement after the initial manual spin. Following any main game turn, the player can choose to respin a single reel at an additional cost, thereby gaining a secondary opportunity to achieve those elusive winning combinations or even the slot’s max win. Every reel showcases its respin cost, carefully calculated based on potential winning outcomes. This feature injects an additional layer of engagement and strategy, offering a personalised touch to the often random nature of spinning the reels.

Respin Feature

Mobile Compatibility

Reel Gems ascends beyond the confines of desktop gameplay, with mobile optimisation enabling players to indulge in the splendour of sparkling jewels on various devices, including smartphones and tablets. Whether through a dedicated app or a mobile web browser, this slot ensures an impeccable user experience across iOS and Android platforms. The game’s interface may see minor adjustments to accommodate touch-based inputs and smaller screens. Yet, these refinements only enhance mobile playability without detracting from the game’s visual allure or intrinsic mechanics.

Conclusion

Reel Gems is a slot that masterfully balances straightforward gameplay and the allure of potential wealth. Its simplicity, with special features like free spins and respins, caters to players and playing styles, from those engaging in the Reel Gems demo for a casual flutter to real money gamers intent on pursuing the significant max win.

This well-rounded slot machine is a shining recommendation for players enamoured by jewel-themed gameplay and those who appreciate the convenience of mobile gaming. The balanced gameplay is further reflected in player reviews, which often highlight the solid RTP and medium volatility as reasons to return to this Microgaming classic.

For players drawn to the gleaming allure of gemstones and seeking similar gaming experiences, titles like Starburst and Da Vinci Diamonds, developed by NetEnt and IGT, respectively, offer comparable themes and are worth exploring for their engaging gameplay and vibrant graphical styles.

Game Screenshots

Reel Gems Overall Rating
3.8
Total Score:
Risk-Reward
4.2
Bonus Features
3.6
Graphics & Sound
3.4
Betting Range
4.3
Gameplay
3.6
Gameplay Video