Heavenly Fortune: The Story Behind Gates of Heaven’s Wild Symbols
Introduction to Gates of Heaven
Gates of Heaven is a popular slot game developed by IGT (International Gaming Technology), a leading provider in the gambling industry. Since its release, it has captivated players with its stunning visuals and engaging gameplay mechanics, particularly the inclusion of wild symbols. This article delves into the story behind these iconic Gates of Heaven slot symbols and how they contribute to the overall player experience.
The Origins of Gates of Heaven
Released in 2015, Gates of Heaven is a five-reel, ten-payline slot machine set in ancient Greece. The game features a mystical setting with gods and mythical creatures as its backdrop, offering players an immersive experience that transports them to this legendary land.
The Symbol System
The key to the success of Gates of Heaven lies not only in its design but also in its unique symbol system. Among these symbols are three wild symbols: the Golden Eagle, the Medusa Head, and the Thunderbolt. Each has a distinct appearance and function within the game.
The Golden Eagle – A Symbol of Power
The first wild symbol is the Golden Eagle. This majestic eagle, often associated with Zeus in Greek mythology, represents strength, power, and authority. The Golden Eagle appears as a golden-feathered eagle, perched majestically on its throne. When this symbol lands on the reels, it can substitute for any other symbols except the scatter (lightning bolt) to form winning combinations.
Functionality of the Golden Eagle
- Substitution: The Golden Eagle can replace any standard symbol to help complete a winning combination.
- Multipliers: Landing three or more Golden Eagles on the reels triggers a feature where each subsequent eagle provides an additional multiplier, potentially leading to significant wins.
The Medusa Head – A Symbol of Terror
Following closely behind the Golden Eagle is the Medusa Head, another wild symbol. In Greek mythology, Medusa was a gorgon with snakes for hair and a face so terrifying that it could turn anyone who looked directly at her to stone. The Medusa Head in Gates of Heaven is depicted as an eerie, snake-haired skull, emitting a sinister aura.
Functionality of the Medusa Head
- Substitution: Similar to the Golden Eagle, the Medusa Head can substitute for any regular symbol except the scatter.
- Free Spins Trigger: Landing three or more Medusa Heads on the reels triggers a free spins feature. During this phase, all wins are doubled.
The Thunderbolt – A Symbol of Lightning
The third and final wild symbol is the Thunderbolt, often associated with Zeus’s power over lightning in Greek mythology. This symbol appears as a glowing bolt of electricity, streaking across the reels with a dramatic effect.
Functionality of the Thunderbolt
- Substitution: The Thunderbolt can replace any standard symbols to form winning combinations.
- Wild Substitution: Landing three or more Thunderbolts on the reels triggers a wild substitution feature. In this phase, all other symbols on the reel become wilds, increasing the chances of forming winning combinations.
Conclusion: The Impact of Wild Symbols
The wild symbols in Gates of Heaven are not just decorative elements but integral parts of the game’s strategy and excitement. They enhance the player experience by providing numerous opportunities for winning combinations and special features like free spins and multipliers. These symbols add layers to the gameplay, making each spin more engaging and unpredictable.
Whether you’re a fan of mythology or simply enjoy the thrill of slot machines, Gates of Heaven offers an exciting adventure with its wild symbols that can transform any ordinary spin into a life-changing experience.
