Book Of Ra
Discover Book of Ra: The Legendary Slot Adventure
At a glance
| Game Title | Book of Ra Classic |
| Developer | Novomatic (Greentube) |
| Release Date | March 7, 2005 |
| Theme | Ancient Egypt, Adventure |
| Layout | 5 Reels, 3 Rows |
| Paylines | 9 (Adjustable) |
| Key Feature | Free Spins with a Special Expanding Symbol |
| Volatility | High |
| RTP | 92.13% |
Origins
You’re looking at a slot that started in land-based halls and never lost momentum. Created by the Austrian studio Novomatic, Book of Ra first captivated players on March 7, 2005. Its online version, delivered by Greentube, opened the temple doors to a global audience and kept the legend alive.
Theme and mood
You join a bold explorer on a trip through ancient temples and dusty tombs. The Egyptian setting isn’t just set dressing. The golden Book of Ra, pharaohs, and sacred scarabs pull you into an archaeological hunt. That mix of mystery and discovery is why players in Germany have stayed loyal for nearly two decades.
Signature feature
The Book of Ra symbol does double duty as Wild and Scatter. Land three or more and you trigger 10 free spins. Before they start, one symbol is randomly chosen as a Special Expanding Symbol. During the round it can stretch to cover a reel and pays on all active lines regardless of position, pairing simple setup with real suspense.
Book of Ra Deluxe: What Sets It Apart
Book of Ra Deluxe is the refined successor to the original slot, released in 2008, and it modernises the Egyptian adventure you know. Expect sharper graphics, smoother animations, and enhanced sound effects that lift the atmosphere. Symbols look more detailed, and the overall presentation feels polished. It was developed for modern devices while preserving the classic core, so you get a cleaner interface and a look that still feels current.
Feature
Book of Ra Classic
Book of Ra Deluxe
Paylines
9
10 (adjustable)
Graphics
Original 2D graphics
Modernised, higher-resolution visuals
RTP
Approx. 92.13%
Approx. 95.10%
Gameplay upgrades
Deluxe doesn’t just look better, it plays better. Paylines rise from 9 to 10, giving you one extra way to win on every spin. The interface responds quickly and runs smoothly across different devices. You still get the signature bonus: 10 free spins with a special expanding symbol. When it appears, it can expand to cover the entire reel and deliver substantial payouts.
Why you might prefer it
Deluxe keeps what made the original special and improves the tech where it counts. A slightly higher RTP and an extra payline add better theoretical value, while the updated graphics make sessions more engaging. You enjoy a familiar experience that doesn’t feel outdated, which is why Deluxe often appears more frequently than the classic version at online casinos. It strikes a balance between nostalgia and modern expectations for both returning fans and first-time players.
How to Play: Symbols, Rules, and Game Mechanics
Book of Ra uses a 5-reel 3-row layout with up to 9 adjustable paylines in the classic version. Set your bet per line, choose the number of active lines, then spin. Wins count from the leftmost reel. You win with two or more high-value symbols, or three or more lower-value symbols on an active payline.
Symbols and payouts
The slot leans into an Egyptian theme. Picture symbols pay more than the card royals. Value order:
- Explorer Highest paying. Five on a line pay big.
- Pharaoh’s Sarcophagus Second highest.
- Statue of Isis & Scarab Beetle Equal medium value.
- A K Q J 10 Lower value.
The Book symbol
The Book of Ra acts as Wild and Scatter. As a Wild it substitutes to complete wins. As a Scatter, three or more books anywhere trigger 10 free games. The books also pay for 3, 4, or 5 on the reels.
Free spins and expanding symbol
Before free games, the book randomly picks one regular symbol to become special. When enough of it lands during free spins, it expands to fill its reel. Expanded wins pay on all active lines, even when symbols are not adjacent.
Gamble feature
After any win you may use the Gamble feature. A face-down card appears. Guess red or black. A correct pick doubles your prize and you can gamble again. A wrong pick forfeits the amount won on that spin.
RTP, Volatility, and Win Rates Explained
Return to Player
Book of Ra Classic comes with a Return to Player of 92.13%. This is the long term share of total wagers paid back over many spins, not a promise for any single session. Book of Ra Deluxe lifts the RTP to 95.10%. Both figures sit below many modern online slots, which reflects the roots of these classic Novomatic titles built for land based play. RTP helps you compare versions, but it does not change the swingy nature of the game from spin to spin.
| Metric | Book of Ra Classic | Book of Ra Deluxe |
|---|---|---|
| RTP | 92.13% | 95.10% |
| Volatility | High | High |
| Maximum Win | 5,000x Bet | 5,000x Bet |
Volatility in Practice
Both versions are high volatility. You will see fewer hits than in low volatility slots, but the game can deliver large prizes when it connects. Dry spells are normal as much of the potential sits in the bonus. The top win reaches 5,000x your bet, underscoring the high risk high reward profile.
Your Winning Chances
The free spins bonus triggers on average about once every 170 to 200 spins depending on version. Base game payouts land more often, yet they tend to be modest. Real upside arrives in the 10 free spins when the special expanding symbol is active. Plan for swings, use a bankroll approach that can absorb downtrends, and let variance work over time.
Novomatic: The Developer Behind the Game
You play Book of Ra from Novomatic, an Austrian gaming technology conglomerate with decades in the casino industry. Founded in 1980 by billionaire Johann Graf, Novomatic grew into one of Europe’s most recognized gaming giants. The company built a strong footprint in land based casinos and later brought its hits online through its Greentube subsidiary. That path helped Book of Ra reach players in Germany and far beyond.
Novomatic at a glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Founder | Johann Graf |
| Founded | 1980 |
| Headquarters | Gumpoldskirchen, Austria |
| Global Reach | Operations in over 50 countries |
| Online Division | Greentube |
| Key Products | Slot machines, electronic table games, casino management systems |
Reputation and reach
You’ll find Novomatic games in casinos across Germany and throughout Europe. The company is known for slots that balance entertainment with fair, tested gameplay. Book of Ra became the flagship, spawning sequels and variations over the years and earning a legendary status among slot fans.
Quality and innovation
Novomatic focuses on robust gameplay rather than flashy gimmicks. Its slots use straightforward rules and high volatility that appeal to newcomers and experienced players alike. Book of Ra shows this approach with a simple, engaging design that has endured since its 2005 release. The studio continues to update and refine its titles while preserving the core elements that made them work in the first place.
Free Demo Play: Try Book of Ra Without Risk
Most online casinos licensed in Germany let you try Book of Ra in demo mode, so you can play before risking cash. The free version includes every feature from the real money game, including the special expanding symbols and the 10 free spins bonus round. Due to German regulations under the Glücksspielstaatsvertrag, many operators require you to register and verify your account before any free to play games are available.
How demo mode works
When you open the demo, you receive virtual credits that you can usually top up by reloading the game. The demo plays the same as the paid version, giving you a true feel for reel speed, the rhythm of wins, and how often features trigger.
Why use demo mode
Free play helps you understand the game’s high volatility without pressure. You can test ideas, learn the mechanics, and build confidence before staking real money.
- Learn the bonus feature: Trigger free spins, see the randomly chosen expanding symbol, and how it pays on non adjacent reels.
- Understand the paytable: Get to know symbol values from 10, J, Q, K, A up to the Scarab, Sarcophagus, and the Explorer.
- Test betting strategies: Try minimum to maximum stakes and track the impact on your virtual bankroll to find a level that suits you.
- Experience volatility: Watch long streaks and dry spells to grasp the game’s high variance over time.
Demo mode will not pay real money, and it will not cost you either. When you feel ready, you can switch to real play
Real Money Play: How to Win Big
Playing Book of Ra with real money turns your session from casual spins into a hunt for treasure. To begin, open an account at a licensed online casino and make a deposit. Use secure options like credit cards, e wallets such as Skrill or Neteller, or a bank transfer. Most platforms accept deposits from just a few euros, so you can set a budget that suits you. Pick a payment method you trust and set a stake you feel comfortable with before you spin.
Prize potential
The largest wins come from the free spins bonus. A special expanding symbol can cover entire reels. When high value symbols expand across multiple reels, payouts climb fast. The Explorer is the highest paying symbol and awards 5,000x your line bet for a full payline.
| Symbol | Max payout for five |
|---|---|
| Explorer | 5,000x your line bet |
| Pharaoh | 2,000x your line bet |
| Statue | 750x your line bet |
| Scarab Beetle | 750x your line bet |
Smart play
Start with smaller bets while you learn the game’s rhythm. Adjust your stake to your session budget, not to recover losses. The free spins bonus drives the biggest wins, so patience helps. For smaller base game wins, you can try the optional Gamble feature. It offers a 50 50 chance to double your prize. Remember, Book of Ra has high volatility. Wins may be infrequent, but they can be significant when they hit.
Book of Ra Variations and Spin-Offs
You’re not limited to one adventure. The original Book of Ra inspired a family of slots that suit different styles. Novomatic kept the iconic Egyptian vibe and mixed in new mechanics so you can pick the pace and features you like.
| Game Version | Reels | Paylines | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Book of Ra Classic | 5 | 9 | Classic free spins with one special expanding symbol. |
| Book of Ra Deluxe | 5 | 10 | Enhanced graphics, an extra payline, and slightly higher volatility. |
| Book of Ra Deluxe 6 | 5 or 6 | 10 | Optional 6th reel ("Extra Bet") for bigger winning combinations. |
| Book of Ra Magic | 5 | 10 | Re-triggered free spins add a new expanding symbol each time, up to 9. |
| Book of Ra Mystic Fortunes | 5 | 10 | Four-level progressive jackpot bonus: Mini, Minor, Major, Grand. |
Classic
You get five reels and nine paylines with straightforward gameplay. If you’re new to the series, this is a clean, easy start.
Deluxe
Ten paylines and sharper visuals keep the core feel intact while adding polish. Slightly higher volatility brings a bit more thrill.
Deluxe 6
Activate the optional sixth reel via the “Extra Bet.” Your stake rises, but six-of-a-kind wins become possible with larger payouts.
Magic
Each re-trigger in free spins adds another special expanding symbol, stacking up to nine at once for explosive screens.
Mystic Fortunes
A jackpot-focused path. Collect coin symbols to trigger a bonus round with four progressive levels.
All versions keep the explorer theme while changing math models, bonus triggers, or visuals. Choose classic simplicity or chase modern twists
Where to Play Book of Ra Online in Germany
If you want to play Book of Ra safely in Germany, choose casinos licensed by the national regulator. Since the Interstate Treaty on Gambling 2021 took effect, only operators approved by the Gemeinsame Glücksspielbehörde der Länder (GGL) may offer online slots nationwide. This license framework helps protect your money and personal data under German law, so it matters where you sign up.
GGL-licensed casinos with Book of Ra
Novomatic titles are back on regulated sites. After a period of absence, Greentube, Novomatic’s interactive division, re-entered the German market, and you can now find the classic Book of Ra and sequels like Book of Ra Deluxe at approved operators. Examples include:
- StarGames.de
- bwin.de
- Tipico Games
- JackpotPiraten
- Lord Lucky
These brands list Novomatic games within their licensed slot portfolios, so you can play under the current German rules.
What to check before playing
Before you register, confirm the casino appears on the official GGL White List (Whitelist). That is the most reliable way to verify legal status in Germany. Also check for secure payment options commonly used here, such as PayPal, Sofort (Klarna), Giropay, or Paysafecard.
Many licensed platforms offer welcome bonuses you can use on Book of Ra. Always read the terms and keep the nationwide €1 maximum bet per spin rule in mind. If you prefer to practice first, look for a demo mode. It lets you learn the interface and game flow before depositing real money.
Is Book of Ra Legal in Germany?
Yes, you can legally play Book of Ra online in Germany as long as you use an operator licensed under the State Treaty on Gambling 2021 (Glücksspielstaatsvertrag 2021). The treaty took effect on July 1, 2021 and reshaped the market for virtual slots. With a valid German license issued by the Gemeinsame Glücksspielbehörde der Länder (GGL), operators may offer virtual slot games to players in Germany under supervision. Always check the site’s licensing details before you spin.
Rules at Licensed German Casinos
At GGL-regulated casinos, you will encounter strict player protection rules designed to support responsible play:
- Monthly deposit limit: A cross-provider cap of €1,000 per month enforced through the LUGAS central database.
- Betting cap: Maximum stake per spin on virtual slots is €1.
- 5-second rule: Each spin must last at least five seconds to slow the pace.
- No autoplay: Automatic spins are prohibited; you must start every spin manually.
- Reality checks: After 60 minutes of continuous play, a mandatory 5-minute cool-down begins.
These standards apply across all GGL-licensed platforms.
Playing at Unlicensed Sites
Some offshore casinos without a German license still offer Book of Ra to players in Germany. You are unlikely to face legal consequences for using them, but they operate outside German law and do not provide the mandatory GGL protections listed above. That gap can make resolving disputes difficult. For the safest and most secure experience, choose casinos that clearly display a valid GGL license on their website.
Mobile Gaming: Play Book of Ra on the Go
You can play Book of Ra and popular variations like Book of Ra Deluxe anywhere in Germany on your smartphone or tablet. Most online casinos that host the game are optimised for mobile and often don’t require a download. Open your mobile browser, sign in to your casino account, and continue your Egyptian adventure on the move.
Browser play and compatibility
The mobile build uses HTML5, so it runs smoothly across devices and operating systems in instant play. Visuals and audio match the desktop version, and the layout adjusts to your screen automatically. You keep the core experience without extra steps.
- Full compatibility: Works on iOS iPhone and iPad, plus Android phones and tablets
- No download: Play directly in Chrome, Safari, or Firefox with your usual login
- Data friendly: Built to limit data use, though stable Wi‑Fi is recommended
Touch controls and interface
The touchscreen layout keeps controls clear. Tap the large spin button, adjust your stake with plus and minus, and open the paytable with one touch. Switch to landscape mode for a wider view. All features carry over to mobile, including the signature expanding symbol bonus round and the Gamble option. Your progress and settings stay synced with your account across all devices.
Tips for Maximizing Your Book of Ra Experience
You get more out of Book of Ra when you play with a plan. It’s a game of chance, but knowing how features work and pacing your budget helps you enjoy longer sessions and gives your balance a fair shot.
Smart bankroll management
Set a session budget and stick to it. Split your bankroll into smaller portions so you can take more spins without risking everything at once. Size each bet in proportion to your total bankroll. Don’t chase losses with bigger wagers. If a session isn’t going your way, pause and return later.
Understand the bonus round
The biggest wins usually come from free spins. Land three or more Book symbols anywhere to trigger the feature. You receive 10 free spins. Before they start, one symbol is randomly selected as a special expanding symbol. When it appears during free spins, it can expand to cover the entire reel and pays on all active lines regardless of position. High-value symbols pay from two or more reels. Low-value symbols need three or more.
Use the Gamble feature carefully
After any win you can choose Gamble. It’s a 50/50 guess on the color of a face-down card, red or black. A correct pick doubles your win. A wrong pick loses it. Consider using Gamble on smaller wins to build your balance, and skip it after a significant payout to protect profits.
Play with a clear mind
Stay relaxed and avoid impulsive bets. Book of Ra has high volatility, so wins can be infrequent but substantial. Take short breaks during longer sessions to keep focus and make steadier decisions.