Wild symbols substitute for any other symbol (with the exception of scatters and bonus symbols, in most slots) to complete a paying combination. Many slots have specialty wilds — sticky wilds that stay in place for subsequent spins, expanding wilds that fill the entire reel, walking wilds that move position each spin, multiplier wilds that increase win value.
Wild mechanics are one of the main levers studios use to differentiate slot maths. Sticky-wild bonus rounds (Dead or Alive, Wanted Dead or a Wild) are a hallmark of high-volatility slot design.
Example usage
- Sticky wild (stays through respins)
- Expanding wild (fills entire reel)
- 2x multiplier wild
Related terms
- Bonus round — A feature game inside a slot, typically free spins or pick-and-win, triggered by scatter symbols.
- Multiplier — A factor that multiplies a win, often building progressively during a bonus round.
- Paylines — The fixed lines across a slot's reels on which matching symbol combinations pay out.
- Scatter symbol — A symbol that triggers a feature when a minimum number appear anywhere on the reels, regardless of payline.