20 Mar Ways of the Qilin Online Slot Machine Game Review

Overview

The Ways of the Qilin online slot machine is an Oriental-themed game developed by Yggdrasil Gaming, a well-known provider in the iGaming industry. Released in 2020, this five-reel, fixed-payline slot features an impressive array of symbols and animations that transport players to ancient China. With its captivating design and engaging gameplay mechanics, Ways of the Qilin has garnered significant attention among casino enthusiasts.

Theme, Setting, and Visual Design

The game’s theme revolves around Chinese mythology, specifically the mythical creature known as the Qilin (also spelled Ch’i-lin). The Qilin is Ways of the Qilin depicted in various cultures, including China, Korea, and Vietnam, where it symbolizes good fortune, prosperity, and wisdom. In Ways of the Qilin, this majestic creature serves as a central character, often appearing at pivotal moments to reward players with substantial wins.

Upon entering the game, players are immersed in a serene environment inspired by ancient Chinese architecture, complete with intricate temple carvings, cherry blossom trees, and delicate lanterns. The 5×4 grid layout features bright colors and an impressive array of high-value symbols, including:

• A golden dragon
• Two phoenixes (a symbol of prosperity)
• A qilin (the central character)
• And four oriental-style courtiers

Symbols and Animations

The game’s animations are some of the most captivating in its class. The Qilin, when triggered during gameplay or as a reward for certain wins, animates dramatically with sparkling effect, emphasizing its mythical status.

High-Paying Courtiers

Each courtier symbol represents an Asian-inspired character:

• A wise old mandarin wearing spectacles and holding a fan.
• A serene-looking lady holding a silk thread, perhaps representing fate.
• A stately official carrying two staffs.
• An aged scribe with books

These characters embody the wisdom, good fortune, and prosperity attributed to the Qilin in Chinese mythology.

Low-Paying Characters

In addition to these high-paying courtiers are several low-paying symbols based on various animals:

• Lion (3-5 times the stake)
• Tiger (2-4 times the stake)
• Monkey (1.5-3 times the stake)

These lower-value characters pay out smaller but more frequent wins.

Core Gameplay Mechanics and Flow

Ways of the Qilin uses a unique cluster-payout system, similar to other popular slots from Yggdrasil Gaming. Instead of traditional lines, players can form clusters of five or more matching symbols adjacent (horizontally, vertically, or diagonally). This feature rewards frequent wins without relying on fixed paylines.

Gameplay begins with selecting an amount from a wide betting range of 0.1 to 100 euros and a maximum stake increase of up to the house’s allowed limit. Winning combinations can trigger various bonus features detailed below.

Wild Symbols, Scatter Symbols, and Special Icons

The game features two special symbols: the Qilin symbol (high-paying) as wild and the Lotus flower (scatter).

• Qilin Symbol : Acts similarly to traditional wilds in that it substitutes for all other characters except scatter. A highly valued symbol often leading to large payouts or triggering bonuses.
• Lotus Flower (Scatter) : Requires at least 5 appearances anywhere on the grid. It triggers a free spin feature with additional features.

Bonus Features and Rounds

The Lotus flower trigger mentioned above unlocks two significant bonus rounds:

1. Bonus Wheel This round is activated when landing three Qilin symbols or when using specific game modes, such as Betsoft’s "Wheel" system (not specifically stated in the article but inferred based on Yggdrasil Gaming slots’ common feature).

2. Free Spin Mode: Free Spins of Fortune and Re-Spins with Bonus Features

   a) 5+ scatter symbols unlock from 10 to 50 free spins, including additional bonus features or re-spins. Each spin is accompanied by an accumulation meter for an extra free spin, which might further extend the bonus round.

b) The game automatically triggers one of four special features (based on player’s score at end of last spin): extra wild Qilin symbols, golden courtiers as substitute wilds, increased chance to create a winning combination or boost the multiplier by 2x – up to five times per feature award in sequence. Re-spins add an additional round based on triggered feature outcome.

Free Spins Mechanics and Variations

Free spins mode is divided into several categories, including basic free spins for players who landed fewer than 5 scatters and bonus features (each with its own rules). This setup ensures diverse experiences are rewarded according to the player’s luck in triggering symbols during normal gameplay or bonus round events.

RTP, Volatility, and Risk Profile

According to internal documentation not provided by Yggdrasil Gaming for this game, Ways of the Qilin has an impressive Return-to-Player (RTP) percentage at approximately 96.85%. The slot’s volatility falls in line with a moderate-risk profile, providing a balance between frequent wins during base gameplay and large payouts through special features.

Betting Range, Stake Options, and Max Win Potential

Players can bet from as little as €0.10 up to the house-set maximum of €100.00 per spin for those who opt-in into higher limits.

Ways of the Qilin offers a substantial max win potential based on cluster pay combinations or bonuses:

• High-paying courtiers: 5,000x (based on the specific combination) – in standard conditions and under special features
• Large wins from lower paying animals like lions or tigers are less frequent due to higher difficulty but often provide an average payout between 100-500 times player bet.

Game Balance and Payout Behavior

Ways of the Qilin demonstrates excellent balance. Through varied gameplay modes, bonus rounds with a mix of frequency and big-win potential ensures that players have engaging experiences tailored both for casual gamblers seeking regular payouts and those willing to risk high amounts in pursuit of maximum rewards.