Book of Dead is probably the slot most often handed out as welcome free spins in the history of iGaming. Since 2016, casinos all over the world have used it as a sign-up hook. The reason: high volatility with 5,000x potential but no complicated mechanics. Five reels, ten lines, an expanding symbol in free spins. Simple and effective.
Play'n GO launched it as the spiritual successor to Novomatic's Book of Ra. Same core mechanic — the book is both scatter and wild, and the free spins feature a symbol that expands — but with superior graphics and a charismatic protagonist: Rich Wilde, the adventuring archaeologist who kicked off a franchise of 15+ games.
| Data | Value |
|---|---|
| Provider | Play'n GO |
| Release | 2016 |
| Grid | 5×3 |
| Paylines | 10 |
| RTP | 96.21% |
| Volatility | High |
| Max Win | 5,000x |
| Bet | $0.01–$50 |
Mechanic: The Book as Scatter and Wild at Once
The Book of Dead works as a scatter (triggers free spins with 3+ books) and as a wild (substitutes any other symbol). It is a dual symbol that appears on all 5 reels.
Free Spins with Expanding Symbol
3 or more books trigger 10 free spins. Before they begin, the game randomly selects a special symbol. During the free spins, that symbol expands to cover the entire reel if it appears in a winning combination.
If the selected symbol is Rich Wilde (the most valuable one), a single full reel of Rich Wilde pays significantly. With 2 or 3 reels of expanded Rich Wilde, the wins multiply.
The free spins can be retriggered: 3+ books during the bonus grant 10 additional spins.
The "Book of" Formula: Before Book of Dead There Was Book of Ra
Book of Dead did not invent the mechanic. Novomatic did with Book of Ra. But Play'n GO perfected it:
| Aspect | Book of Ra Deluxe | Book of Dead |
|---|---|---|
| RTP | 95.10% | 96.21% |
| Max Win | 5,000x | 5,000x |
| Graphics | Retro | Modern |
| Franchise | 7 versions | 15+ Rich Wilde games |
| Availability | Limited (Greentube) | Universal (Play'n GO) |
Book of Dead has 1.11 percentage points more RTP. That means it statistically returns more money to the player over the long run.
Rich Wilde: The Hero of 15+ Adventures
Rich Wilde is not just the character in Book of Dead. He is a franchise:
- Book of Dead (2016) — Egypt
- Rich Wilde and the Tome of Madness (2019) — Lovecraft
- Rich Wilde and the Shield of Athena (2020) — Greece
- Cat Wilde and the Doom of Dead (2020) — his daughter
- Cat Wilde in the Eclipse of the Sun God (2021)
There are 15+ games connected by the Wilde family. Each title has different mechanics but the narrative universe stays consistent.
Where to Play Book of Dead in Mexico and Argentina
Mexico: Strendus (direct deal with Logrand), Codere, Caliente, Rushbet (among 44 providers)
Argentina: Bplay, BetWarrior, Betsson
Play'n GO has less penetration than Pragmatic Play in LatAm, but it is present at the major casinos.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the RTP of Book of Dead?
96.21%. Higher than Book of Ra Deluxe's 95.10%.
What is the expanding symbol?
A symbol randomly selected at the start of the free spins that expands to cover the entire reel when it appears in a winning combination.
Who is Rich Wilde?
A fictional Play'n GO character — an adventuring archaeologist who headlines 15+ slots. The franchise includes his daughter, Cat Wilde.
Does Book of Dead have a Buy Bonus?
No. Unlike Pragmatic Play slots, Book of Dead does not offer a direct bonus purchase.
How many free spins does Book of Dead give?
10 spins with 3+ scatters. Retriggerable for 10 additional spins.