Valley of the Gods 2

Valley of the Gods 2: Overview

Light up those ancient torches again, players, as you embark on a journey back to the mystical sands of Ancient Egypt. This isn't just a typical getaway to warmer climates, but rather an adventurous test drive of a highly anticipated sequel to one of Yggdrasil's signature games. The original Valley of the Gods, launched in 2017, was a tremendous success due to its unique setup and highly engaging experience. Fast forward a few years, and Yggdrasil Gaming is bringing a new chapter with Part 2. Does it meet expectations? Let's delve into it. Yggdrasil At first glance, it's evident that Yggdrasil has taken thoughtful time to reimagine the entire structure of the game. It's always a gamble to alter a successful formula, but the modifications are executed remarkably well. Abandoning the 5-reel structure of its predecessor, the game now boasts 6 reels with rows that can expand from an initial setup of 1-2-3-4-5-2. Decorative scarab-etched patterns block some of the positions, creating a visual effect of a sideways pyramid.

To the left of the game layout, you'll find three modifier meters outlined against a backdrop of pyramids and palm flanked trees shimmering in a warm haze. The music transports you straight into this exotic world, perfectly matching the on-screen action with its varying tempo. Add to this the deep, resonant sound effects that amplify the gaming experience, and you have a sterling example of how well Yggdrasil curates mythological and historical themes.

Playable with bets ranging from 0.25 to 125 in your preferred currency, Valley of the Gods 2 offers a slightly increased 96.3% RTP compared to its predecessor, and the game's volatility has been amped up to a medium/high level. You might think that having only one symbol on the initial reel would limit your chances, but with a hit rate of 20%, you’re likely to hit a win approximately once every five spins.

Combining winning symbols requires matching three or more of the same symbols from left to right without needing traditional paylines. Symbols need only line up adjacently, commencing from the first reel. In its standard setup, the game offers 240 ways to win, which significantly expands to 20,160 ways when you remove all blocker tiles. The mechanics of this are explained in the following feature section.

Let's start by examining the pay table's common symbols, which include ten total. The first six are the card ranks from 9 to Ace, while the remaining four represent gods Anubis, Horus, Sobek, and Bastet. Bastet, the feline deity, is the most lucrative, offering 20 times your stake for a sequence of six similar symbols. While there isn't a regular wild symbol, the game features a wild reel as part of its special capabilities.

Valley of the Gods 2 is rich with interrelated features. As they say, it takes just one spark to ignite a volcano, and winning any spin starts the process here. Scarabs depart from the winning combination, obliterating blocked tiles. The number of cleared tiles equals the count of winning symbols. A respin ensues, and should victory strike again, the sequence proceeds.

Valley of the Gods 2: Features

Upon successfully destroying all blocker tiles, players get an extra life and the three collection modifiers come alive. Winning scenarios now release scarabs of various colors that fill these modifiers. Gathering five red scarabs grants you one additional life, while five blue ones enhance your win multiplier by one, and five golden scarabs activate a random wild reel that stays in place until the next win or until respins conclude.

Should a respin result in no win, one of your lives is consumed to sustain the feature's continuation. If you're out of lives and no fresh victories occur, respins conclude, resetting the grid to its initial mode, letting you start anew.

Devotees of the original will be pleased to learn that this sequel lives up to, if not exceeds, its predecessor. Everything that made the first version captivating remains intact, now enhanced for an even more satisfying experience. The game gains purpose through blocker removal, and clearing them elevates the adventure into high gear.

Valley of the Gods 2: Verdict

The game has a compelling 'just one more try' aspect, as seeing what can be achieved from a solitary spin keeps players captivated. It's reminiscent of the thrill people get from complex domino sequences, where a single nudge sets off a chain reaction. Likewise, this game also crafts some amazing respin streaks of its own, starting with clearing blockers, gaining extra lives, boosting multipliers, and occasionally adding a wild reel—all from one spin.

In creating a sequel, Yggdrasil has made commendable enhancements. While preserving the essence of the first game, they have infused the sequel with freshness. The Wild Reel is a clever addition and arguably the trickiest modifier to activate. Significant changes are evident, but none deter fans. In fact, playing the sequel might make its predecessor's previous gameplay seem dated.

Conversely, Valley of the Gods 2 might come across as too complicated for those who prefer straightforward slot games, like the classic Book-style Egyptian slots. It can also be occasionally frustrating. Although the respin feature activates frequently (with a hit frequency of 45.5%), it sometimes ends too quickly, leaving little to show.

In sum, Valley of the Gods 2 is a stellar follow-up to a flagship slot game that appeals to a broad audience. From original fans, to Egyptian mythology buffs, or players who crave something uniquely different, Valley of the Gods 2 offers something for everyone.

Valley of the Gods 2 takes the winning elements of its first edition and not only preserves everything that contributed to its success but expands upon them to create a thoroughly engaging game.