Pros and Cons
- Offers up to 8,100x win potential
- Multiple Free Spins Bonus features with progression
- Wilds double wins, enhancing payout opportunities
- Low volatility for more frequent wins
Pros
- Maximum bet capped at 15, limiting high rollers
- Graphics may appear dated to some players
Cons
Thunderstruck II Pokie Review
Thunderstruck II is a captivating online pokie developed by Microgaming that plunges players into the heart of Norse mythology. The game is set against a mystical backdrop featuring iconic Norse gods such as Thor, Odin, Loki, and Valkyrie, each bringing their own unique twist to the gameplay. The colour scheme is rich with deep blues and metallic hues that evoke the feeling of ancient Scandinavian lore.
The sound design complements the theme perfectly, with a dramatic soundtrack that builds an atmosphere of anticipation and excitement. Graphics, although slightly dated, retain a charm that fans of classic pokies will appreciate, offering a nostalgic yet engaging experience. This pokie stands out in the realm of online gambling for its thematic consistency and the immersive experience it provides.
How to Play Thunderstruck II
Playing Thunderstruck II is an adventure into a world where each spin can unlock the mysteries of the Norse gods. This pokie features 5 reels and 3 rows, offering 243 ways to win, which means players have numerous opportunities to form winning combinations. To win, players need to land matching symbols consecutively from left to right. The game is accessible to a wide range of players, with a minimum bet of $0.30 and a maximum bet of $15.
Despite its low volatility, which generally means more frequent but smaller wins, Thunderstruck II boasts a maximum win potential of up to 8,100 times the stake in a single spin, mainly due to its enriching bonus features.
The Return to Player (RTP) rate of 96.65% is quite generous, giving players a fair chance at significant returns over time. The game’s low volatility makes it an excellent choice for those who prefer a less risky gambling experience. Key features outside the bonus rounds include the Wildstorm feature, which can randomly turn up to five reels wild for massive win potential, and the game’s wilds, which double wins when substituting.
For those looking to understand the game’s mechanics and bonus features in detail, the following section will get into the essential information and the various free spins bonuses offered in the Great Hall of Spins.
Basic Information
Pokie
Thunderstruck IISoftware
MicrogamingRelease Date
May 2010RTP
96.65%Volatility
LowMaximum Win
8,100xMin Bet
$0.30Max Bet
$15Payline
243 WaysReels
5Jackpot
NoFree Spins
Yes
Thunderstruck II Pokie Symbols
In Thunderstruck II, the symbols are meticulously crafted to enhance the Norse mythology theme, each adding to the game’s mystical allure. Players will find a mix of low and high-payout symbols alongside special symbols that trigger the pokie’s unique features. The detailed designs and thematic relevance of each symbol contribute to an immersive gambling experience. As we look into the symbols, we’ll evaluate their significance and potential payouts, giving Australian players insight into what to look for when the reels start spinning.
Low-payout Symbols
The low-payout symbols in Thunderstruck II are represented by the traditional card values 9 through Ace. These symbols are styled to fit the Norse theme, with a robust and stony appearance that evokes the harsh, unforgiving landscapes of the Viking age. To secure a win with these symbols, players need to land at least three of a kind on consecutive reels, starting from the leftmost reel. The payouts increase with the number of matching symbols, with five of a kind offering a more substantial return. Despite their lower value, these symbols are frequent visitors on the reels, contributing to steady gameplay and providing players with consistent, albeit smaller, wins.
High-payout Symbols
The high-payout symbols are where the true essence of Thunderstruck II’s theme shines. Featuring iconic Norse figures and objects, such as a Viking ship, Valhalla, and the gods themselves—Valkyrie, Loki, Odin, and Thor—these symbols offer significantly higher rewards. Landing just two of some high-value symbols can result in a payout, though the more symbols that line up, the greater the win. The most coveted of these is Thor, who not only offers the highest payout for five in a row but also brings a sense of power and majesty to the reels. These high-payout symbols are key to achieving the pokie game’s more substantial rewards and are central to the most exciting moments Thunderstruck II has to offer.
Special Symbols
Special symbols in Thunderstruck II play a pivotal role in unlocking the game’s vast potential for big wins and engaging gameplay. The Wild symbol, represented by the Thunderstruck II logo, not only substitutes for all other symbols (except the Scatter) to complete winning combinations but also doubles the payout of any win it contributes to. The Scatter symbol, Thor’s Hammer, is your ticket to the Great Hall of Spins. These special symbols are the heart of Thunderstruck II, offering more than just payouts—they unlock the adventure and excitement that define this iconic pokie.
Symbols Paytable
Symbol | Payline | Maximum Payout |
Bonus Scatter | x5 | 200x |
Thunderstruck Wild | x5 | 33.3x |
Thor | x5 | 16.6x |
Odin | x5 | 15x |
Loki | x5 | 13.3x |
Valkyrie | x5 | 11.6x |
Valhalla | x5 | 10x |
Longship | x5 | 8.3x |
A | x5 | 5x |
K | x5 | 5x |
Q | x5 | 4.1x |
J | x5 | 4.1x |
10 | x5 | 3.3x |
9 | x5 | 3.3x |
Thunderstruck II Pokie Bonuses
Thunderstruck II is renowned for its generous array of bonus features, which are integral to the game’s appeal and potential for big wins. The standout attraction is the Great Hall of Spins, a multi-level free spins bonus that progressively unlocks as players re-enter the hall.
Each entry into this coveted hall reveals a new god with their own set of unique free spins features, starting with Valkyrie and advancing through Loki, Odin, and finally, Thor, each offering more enriching bonuses than the last.
These bonuses, combined with the transformational Wildstorm feature, ensure a thrilling gameplay experience filled with surprises. Now, let’s take a closer look at each of these bonuses to understand the opportunities they present.
The Great Hall of Spins
The Great Hall of Spins is the centrepiece of Thunderstruck II’s bonus features, offering players a progressive journey through various levels of free spins bonuses. Entry to this hall is granted by landing three or more Thor’s Hammer symbols, which then sequentially unlocks the four different free spins features associated with the Norse gods. Below is a breakdown of each free spins feature–
Valkyrie Bonus
The Valkyrie bonus is the first level players encounter in the Great Hall of Spins. Available from the first trigger, it awards 10 free spins with all wins multiplied by 5x. This bonus can be retriggered, providing players with the opportunity to extend their winning streak and accumulate substantial payouts.
Loki Bonus
After the fifth entry into the Great Hall of Spins, players unlock the Loki bonus. This feature grants 15 free spins accompanied by the Wild Magic feature. The Wild Magic symbol on reel 3 can transform other symbols into additional wilds, increasing the potential for big wins. Retriggering additional free spins is possible by landing more Thor’s Hammer symbols during this bonus.
Odin Bonus
The Odin bonus becomes available upon the tenth entry into the Great Hall of Spins. Players are awarded 20 free spins, during which Odin’s Ravens can randomly turn symbols into 2x or 3x multipliers. If both ravens land on the reels, a 6x multiplier is awarded, significantly enhancing the payout potential.
Thor Bonus
The ultimate bonus in the Great Hall of Spins is the Thor bonus, unlocked after the fifteenth trigger. This feature provides 25 free spins with the Rolling Reels mechanic, where consecutive wins can increase the multiplier up to 5x. This dynamic bonus offers the highest potential for consecutive wins and escalating payouts.
Wildstorm Feature
The Wildstorm Feature in Thunderstruck II is an exhilarating bonus that is triggered entirely at random during the base game, adding an element of surprise and excitement to every spin. Unlike the Great Hall of Spins, which requires players to land a specific combination of symbols to activate, the Wildstorm feature can initiate without any warning, at any point during regular play.
When the Wildstorm feature is activated, Thor can appear, bringing a dramatic storm with him. This storm has the power to turn up to five reels entirely wild, dramatically increasing the potential for significant wins. The randomness of this feature means that it’s always a thrilling moment when it strikes, as it can lead to some of the highest payouts available in Thunderstruck II. However, it’s important to note that Free Spins cannot be triggered during the Wildstorm feature, focusing the excitement solely on the potential for wild reels.
Victory to Valhalla: The Thunderstruck II Pokie Experience
Thunderstruck II by Microgaming remains a hallmark among online pokies, captivating players with its Norse mythology theme and innovative features. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its engaging gameplay and the potential for significant rewards. For enthusiasts drawn to the legends of Valhalla, similar themed games like Valhall Gold by ELK Studios offer an exploration of these myths with a fresh twist.
The game’s standout, The Great Hall of Spins, alongside the thrilling Wildstorm feature, ensures that Thunderstruck II continues to offer a dynamic experience with each spin. For those seeking adventures with Norse deities, Rise of the Valkyrie is another pokie that immerses players in the epic tales of divine warriors. Thunderstruck II’s blend of captivating graphics, rewarding bonuses, and the chance for substantial wins keeps it at the forefront of online pokies, offering a timeless journey into the heart of Norse legend.
Frequently asked questions
What makes Thunderstruck II unique among other Norse-themed pokies?
Thunderstruck II sets itself apart with its progressive Free Spins feature, The Great Hall of Spins, where each god offers a unique set of bonuses. The game’s 243 ways to win also provide a dynamic gameplay experience, differing from traditional payline pokies.
Can the Wildstorm feature occur more than once during a session?
Yes, the Wildstorm feature is randomly triggered and can occur multiple times during a session, offering the chance to turn up to 5 reels wild each time it activates.
How does the win multiplier work in the Thor Free Spins bonus?
In the Thor Free Spins bonus, the Rolling Reels feature increases the win multiplier with each consecutive win, starting from 1x and potentially going up to 5x, resetting on a non-winning spin.
Are there any symbols in Thunderstruck II that pay out for just two matches?
Yes, some of the higher value symbols, such as Thor, offer payouts for just two matching symbols, making it easier to achieve winning combinations.
What role do the Norse gods play in the gameplay of Thunderstruck II?
Each Norse god in Thunderstruck II – Valkyrie, Loki, Odin, and Thor – represents a different level of the Great Hall of Spins, each with their own set of Free Spins and unique bonus features, adding depth to the game’s narrative and mechanics.
Is the RTP of Thunderstruck II competitive with other online pokies?
Yes, with an RTP of 96.65%, Thunderstruck II offers a competitive return to player rate, which is on the higher end compared to many online pokies, providing a fair balance between the game’s payout potential and player retention.
How does the theme of Thunderstruck II contribute to its gameplay experience?
The Norse mythology theme of Thunderstruck II is deeply integrated into its gameplay, not just through the symbols and story but also through the bonus features, which are themed around the gods and their powers, enhancing the overall immersive experience.