Introduction to Stepping Diamonds
As if the world wasn’t already inundated with fruit slots, local jackpots, and hold ‘n win features, Stepping Diamonds arrives to combine all three elements into one game. Developed by veteran studio Play’n GO, this online slot provides a new spin on familiar tropes, showcasing their ability to refresh classic elements with a modern twist. While the game is mostly a standard blend of classic slot and hold ‘n win features, the introduction of the Step ‘N Reel adds a unique touch that may appeal to seasoned players looking for something different.
Visual and Audio Experience
Stepping Diamonds delivers a sensory experience that is fairly predictable yet slightly distinct in its own right. The game features big, bold symbols with bright colors, all set against a backdrop that merges chrome elements with a blue-patterned background. This design choice gives the game a futuristic yet retro 80s/90s vibe, which is not commonly seen in typical fruit-themed slots. The accompanying music, funky as fudge, adds to the overall ambiance, though it doesn’t stray too far from what players might expect from a slot of this nature.
Gameplay Mechanics and Betting Options
The action in Stepping Diamonds takes place on a 5×3 reel set, offering 20 paylines for players to land winning combinations. The game caters to a wide range of players with betting options that start as low as 10 cents and go cc6 up to $/€50 per spin. The slot is classified as medium volatility, with a rating of 6 out of 10, meaning it strikes a balance between frequent small wins and the potential for larger payouts. For those who prioritize return to player (RTP) percentages, Stepping Diamonds offers multiple configurations, with the highest being a competitive 96.2% model.
Symbol Payouts and Wild Features
Stepping Diamonds features a range of classic slot symbols, including cherries, lemons, oranges, plums, horseshoes, bells, BARs, and 7s. Winning combinations require matching 3 to 5 identical symbols on a payline, with payouts ranging from 4 to 50 times the player’s stake for a 5-of-a-kind win. Wild stars appear on all reels, substituting for any regular pay symbol and carrying the same value as the highest-paying 7 symbol, adding an extra layer of excitement to the base game.
Step ‘N Win Feature
One of the standout features in Stepping Diamonds is the Step ‘N Win. On each spin, a steps reel above the main reels stops on a number from 1 to 5. When a special Diamond symbol lands on the reels, it triggers the Step ‘N Win feature. During this feature, all Diamond symbols in view increase their value by the number shown on the steps reel, culminating in a payout cc6 of the final values. While only one special Diamond symbol can land per spin, the Step ‘N Win adds an extra layer of anticipation, especially when higher multipliers are in play.
Lock ‘N Spin Feature
The Lock ‘N Spin feature is triggered when 6 or more Diamond symbols land on the reels, lighting up the diamond trail. Depending on the number of Diamond symbols, the reel set expands: 6 symbols activate a 5×3 grid, 7 symbols unlock a 5×4 grid, and 8 symbols expand the grid to 5×5. Players are awarded 3 respins, during which new Diamond symbols lock to the reels and reset the respin count. The Step ‘N Win feature can also be triggered during Lock ‘N Spin, potentially leading to significant payouts if the reels are filled with symbols. A full grid rewards players with 5 full steps, boosting all Diamond values in view.
Cash Pot Diamonds
In addition to the Step ‘N Win and Lock ‘N Spin features, Stepping Diamonds introduces Cash Pot Diamonds, which can land during the Lock ‘N Spin feature. These special symbols offer the potential for substantial payouts, and they can be upgraded for even higher rewards. The Cash Pot Diamonds come in four varieties:
- Mini Cash Pot Diamond: Starts at 20x the stake and can increase by 2x up to 90x.
- Minor Cash Pot Diamond: Begins at 50x the stake and can rise by 5x up to 200x.
- Major Cash Pot Diamond: Starts at 100x the stake and increases by 10x up to 350x.
- Grand Cash Pot Diamond: Begins at 500x the stake and can go up by 50x up to 1,500x.
These Cash Pot Diamonds add an extra layer of excitement during the Lock ‘N Spin feature, though they cannot step during the Step ‘N Win feature.
Slot Verdict: A Mixed Bag
Stepping Diamonds, despite its fresh take on some familiar features, may not leave a lasting impression on all players. The combination of local jackpots, a straightforward hold ‘n win mechanic, and fruit symbols makes it challenging for the game to stand out in a crowded market. However, the Step ‘N Reel and the potential upgrades of Cash Pot Diamonds do add some variety, even if they don’t significantly elevate the overall experience. The jackpots, even when maxed out, don’t provide the kind of cc6 life-changing wins that might draw in jackpot hunters. Nonetheless, for players who enjoy classic slots with a twist, Stepping Diamonds offers enough to keep things interesting, if not entirely dazzling.
In conclusion, Stepping Diamonds by Play’n GO is a solid but not spectacular entry in the world of online slots. The game’s strengths lie in its well-executed features, such as the Step ‘N Win and Lock ‘N Spin, as well as the potential for decent payouts through Cash Pot Diamonds. However, the lack of truly unique elements and the relatively modest jackpots cc6 may limit its appeal to a niche audience. Whether you’re a fan of fruit slots or just looking for something with a bit of retro flair, Stepping Diamonds is worth a spin, even if it doesn’t quite hit the jackpot of innovation.
