Chicken Run is a video slots game developed by Barcrest Games, a UK-based software provider that has been creating innovative casino games since 1968. This delightful title was released in 2015 and has since become one of the most popular fruit machines among online gamblers. As its name suggests, the theme centers around the classic children’s animated film Chicken Run, where chickens attempt to escape from a sinister farmer named Mr. Tweedy.
Theme
The game is set against the backdrop of an old barn, complete with cobwebs and rusty farm equipment. The reels are arranged in a 5×3 chickenrun-casino.co.uk configuration, with nine paylines that provide multiple opportunities for players to win big. The overall design is colorful, vibrant, and reminiscent of classic arcade games.
Design
Upon launching the game, players will be greeted by the main characters from Chicken Run: Ginger (the intelligent and determined leader), Rocky (a dim-witted but lovable rooster), and Specky (an egg-laying hen with a penchant for getting into trouble). These beloved characters are depicted in various stages of their escape attempt, adding to the game’s whimsical charm.
The user interface is intuitive and easy to navigate, making it accessible to players of all skill levels. The game also features a "Fancy View" mode that adds additional graphics effects and animations, further enhancing the player experience.
Symbols
As one would expect from a fruit machine, Chicken Run boasts an array of classic symbols: plums (worth 5x the line bet), lemons (4x), grapes (3.2x), oranges (2.8x), cherries (1.6x), and various farm-themed items such as hens’ eggs (10x) and pig’s feet (15x). However, it is the high-paying symbols that truly bring excitement to the game: Ginger (50x), Rocky (40x), Specky (30x), and Mr. Tweedy’s iconic hat (80x).
Payouts
While the base payouts are not spectacularly generous, players can look forward to significant rewards during the bonus features and free spins rounds. Here is a breakdown of the standard win amounts:
- 3 x plum: 10 coins
- 4 x plum: 100 coins
- 5 x plum: 5000 coins
- 2 x lemon or grape: 1 coin each
- 3 x orange, cherry, or egg symbol: 8-24 coins
Wilds
A wild symbol is present in the form of Mr. Tweedy’s iconic hat, which can replace all other symbols to create winning combinations. While not particularly rare, this wild can lead to decent wins during the base game.
Scatters
The "Chicken Run" logo serves as a scatter symbol, paying out 10x for five appearances anywhere on the reels and triggering the Free Spins feature when three or more are landed in any position.
Bonus Features
Several bonus features contribute to Chicken Run’s exciting gameplay:
- Free Spins: Activate by landing three "Chicken Run" symbols. The number of free spins awarded varies, but typically ranges from 6-14.
- Golden Egg Bonus: Landed on reel two or five during a base game spin, the golden egg awards up to 100x the line bet per spin.
- Ginger’s Wilds Feature : Occurs when Ginger lands on reels one and three. The entire row is converted into wild symbols for that single spin.
Volatility
Chicken Run can be classified as medium volatility slot machine. Payouts are not too frequent, but they’re substantial enough to make playing worthwhile. Be prepared for the possibility of a "cold streak" during which payouts may seem scarce.
RTP (Return to Player)
The official RTP is 96%, ensuring that for every £100 staked on the game, approximately £96 will return to players as winnings.
Betting Range
Players can adjust their bet by using the plus and minus buttons located at the bottom of the screen. The minimum stake starts from 0.25 coins (approximately €0.30 or $0.35), while the maximum allowed is 1 coin (£2,€3,$4).
Max Win
The total maximum win potential for Chicken Run reaches up to £250000.
Gameplay
Chicken Run features a relatively simple gameplay system: players can select their stakes and spin the reels using either autoplay or manual controls. Additional game options include "turbo mode" (increases speed) and sound effects adjustment.
Mobile Play
A mobile-optimized version of Chicken Run is available for play on most smartphones and tablets running Android, iOS, and Windows operating systems. Players can access it through their preferred online casino’s app or browser-based interface.
Player Experience
New players to Chicken Run are likely to be struck by the game’s charming graphics and nostalgic atmosphere, while seasoned gamblers will appreciate its generous payouts during bonus features. The intuitive design ensures seamless navigation for both old pros and newcomers alike.
Overall Analysis
Chicken Run offers a classic gaming experience that draws inspiration from timeless British cinema. By leveraging clever symbolism, engaging gameplay mechanics, and rewarding bonuses, Barcrest Games created an enticing opportunity for players to take flight with Ginger and her feathered friends in the midst of the Hallowed Halls of Chicken Run.
As we conclude this comprehensive review of "Chicken Run", one aspect is clear: while not a particularly innovative or groundbreaking slot machine by modern standards, its simplicity and nostalgic charm set it apart as an authentic interpretation of traditional casino entertainment. Players seeking classic online slots with generous potential for high wins may find themselves in fowl play amidst the game’s many attractive features.
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