Links of RA II is one of those slots where the instant familiarity of the game shows itself the moment the reels spin. The gold-colored Egyptian-style framing, the sun god Ra ambiance, the desert landscape, and the usual coin-heavy layout that most slot players can identify immediately. On initial inspection, it looks like yet another Ancient Egypt online slot trying to capitalize on pyramids, animal-headed Egyptian gods, and shiny bonus coins. After putting the mechanics together, however, it starts to reveal a bit more depth beyond the initial impressions.

Developed by SlingShot Studios and published by Games Global, Links of RA II takes the earlier Links of Ra slot and flips the bonus mechanism into a more contemporary format. The primary focus is the Ultra Link&Win feature, which comes backed by Power Stacks, Booster Coins, The Collection Pot Feature, Free Spins, and a Feature Buy option. That is a great deal of content for a 5-reel, 4-row slot with 40 paylines.

The base game layout is relatively straightforward to grasp. As previously mentioned, however, the actual meat of the game lies within the bonus rounds. Many players will find themselves enjoying the game or finding it frustrating. As it is a high-volatility slot, Links of RA II will tend to go quiet for periods prior to landing something substantial. Small base-game wins may occur during your playtime, but the larger value can be found within the bonus rounds. Below is a breakdown of the Links of RA II slot review in a more practical manner. Here we’ll discuss the theme, RTP (Return To Player), volatility (the amount of variance present in a game’s outcome), payline count, symbols, free spins, Ultra Link & Win bonus, Feature Buy options, and general feel of the game. Additionally, we’ll discuss whether it is worth your time to play this slot, particularly if you’ve played the original Links of Ra or other Egyptian-themed slots.

Theme And Design: An Old Theme Done Well

Egyptian slots are everywhere. That isn’t an understatement. Slot sites have been full of pyramids, scarab beads, gods, golden statues and temple doors for years now. Therefore, when a new Egyptian slot comes onto the scene, it has to work a bit harder to differentiate itself.

Like many Egyptian slots before it, Links of RA II doesn’t invent a brand-new theme. Rather, it plays it safe. Inside a golden Egyptian-styled border around the reels, you’ll see a warm desert background with palm trees, water and pyramids. The visuals aren’t cluttered or overly designed in any area. In fact, that is probably a positive aspect because coin heavy slots can easily get overwhelming when features start triggering.

As stated above, the Sun God Ra is the central figure of the slot. Links of RA II utilizes typical animal head Egyptian characters, colorful coin symbols, gemstones and classic high-paying iconography to create its atmosphere. The golden colors of the slot align perfectly with the bonus mechanics due to their focus on coins, jackpots and collection-based bonuses.

While not being one of the most innovative aspects of Links of RA II, the theme was done professionally. Symbols are clear, animations run smoothly and bonus mechanics were fairly easy to track once you understood what each coin did. The audio effects and soundtrack are also fitting for the theme. Dramatic, warm and somewhat ceremonial; nothing shocking and certainly nothing too loud. It complements the gameplay without obstructing it.

Players looking for comfort from an ancient Egyptian slot will likely feel at home with Links of RA II. Players sick of Egyptian slots will likely be more interested in the features than the theme.

Screenshots

Gameplay Basics: Reels/Paylines/How to Play

A 5-reel 4-row configuration with 40 fixed paylines comprise Links of RA II. Winnings are created by lining up identical symbols from left to right across active paylines starting from the first reel. Given all 40 paylines are static and therefore do not require adjusting manually by you – your wager determines your risk level. Most slot sites allow bets ranging from .20 to 25 (or possibly higher) depending on the site you’re playing on.

The gameplay is very straightforward. Spin, seek winning combinations and check for Coin symbols; and hopefully Power Stacks increase the weight of symbols on your reels. While Links of RA II offers plenty of action in its base game — it feels most lively in its base game when feeding bonus rounds. High-volatility modern slots often have this problem — much of your experience exists outside of the base game. Many spins may pass by with no real exciting activity occurring. If you prefer to receive frequent smaller winning combinations throughout your playtime — this could seem dull at times. If you’re okay with waiting for bonus rounds to fire — you’ll have an easier time appreciating Links of RA II’s rhythm.

RTP/Volatility: What You Need to Know About Playing

The default RTP for Links of RA II is 96.05%. The RTP ranges many players are accustomed to seeing from modern online slots are similar. RTP stands for Return To Player – it indicates your theoretical average return over an incredibly large number of spins. It provides NO indication regarding what will transpire in one single session. It also does NOT indicate that you WILL recoup 96.05% of your money.That point bears repetition in simpler terms: RTP is NOT a short-term promise; it’s a statistical average over a period of time.

Links of RA II has lower RTP variants available including 94.05% and 92.05%. This is commonplace among modern providers – including Games Global – and many others. Sometimes casinos can select which RTP version to host based upon personal preference or profit margins. Consequently if you consider yourself to be concerned with maximum return on investment – take a look at the “game info” tab prior to commencing your play session. A few percentage points can mean a lot over extended gaming sessions.

Additionally Links of RA II has a high volatility model; this implies that Links of RA II is constructed using a model that produces less consistent results. You may experience prolonged spells without landing any notable wins; then potentially hit a strong feature. Alternatively, you may initiate a bonus that yields less than anticipated. Those are characteristics inherent to volatile slots.

High volatility slots affect beginner players greatly since these slots can result in significant losses should beginner players use excessive stakes in pursuit of a major win. A better method would be to start at a reasonable stake size and view feature buys cautiously. The top end win achievable in Links of RA II is 10,000x; this provides adequate upside potential for bonus chasers. However, compared to extreme volatility models with ceilings that range from 20K to 100K or even more; Links of RA II falls somewhere in-between.

Symbols/Paytable: Standard Symbol Set Using Coin-Value-Based Payouts

Links of RA II employs an extremely easy-to-understand set of symbols. Gemstone-style icons serve as the lower-end paying symbols, whereas higher-value paying symbols come in various forms related to animals from Egyptian mythology and other themed icons. Examples of higher-payout symbols include a goat, crocodile, lion, dog, bird, and many other themed icons across the reels. The wild symbol is one of the most beneficial standard symbol types in Links of RA II and can be substituted for standard paying symbols to assist in creating winning combinations. However, the Wild symbol cannot be substituted for Scatter symbols or Coin symbols; this is typical for many slots featuring independent bonus triggers as they generally need to keep those unique features isolated from each other. The Scatter symbol initiates Free Spins; landing three, four, or five Scatters awards Free Spins and different reward amounts depending on how many Scatters landed.

Coins are essentially integral to Links of RA II’s core gameplay. Coins are not merely cosmetic; they activate/triggers or support the Ultra Link&Win Bonus Feature(s); interact with Booster Coins; contribute toward achieving greater bonus potential; etc… Several Coins display monetary values, whereas special Booster Coins can produce multipliers; collect values; expand additional reel positions; grant second chances; etc. The Eye Of Ra Coin symbol is associated with both the Eye Of Ra Coin and Collection Pot Features; when an Eye Of Ra Coin lands in specific locations, it can lead to a feature wheel containing numerous jackpot-type prizes.

It is recommended that players study Links of RA II’s pay table before initiating gameplay, as the Bonus Features have multiple components working simultaneously; even seasoned slot gamers may spend some time learning how booster coins interact with one another.

Collection Pot Feature: Collecting Eyra Coins Leads To A Jackpot Wheel

Links of RA II introduces a further feature component called the Collection Pot Feature, giving Links of RA II an additional feature layer to add complexity. Collection Pot Feature can be activated via an Eye Of Ra Coin falling onto reel position #5. Upon activation, players may be directed toward a feature wheel containing rewards equivalent to miniatures/jackpot-style prizes (i.e., Miniature / Minor / Major / Grand).

Typical structures for each prize level are:

Prize Name         Value
• Miniature           15x
• Minor                 50x
• Major                 500x
• Grand                5,000x

The Collection Pot has less of a central role than Ultra Link&Win; however, it does give players another reason to notice the Coin Symbols. It also fits in with the theme quite well since the Eye of Ra is already one of the game’s most powerful visual symbols.
I really like this feature for two reasons. One is that it creates a little bit of suspense at the bottom of each spin. In addition to the Free Spin/Link&Win triggers, if the Eye of Ra Coin appears on screen, there will always be some type of surprise waiting. Although these jackpots do have the potential to appear after every few spins, they should not be expected every time. The Collection Pot adds fun to the game, but its use should be viewed as a bonus occurrence and not as the primary motivation to play.

Free Spins: Simple Trigger, Better Coin Potential

The main advantage of the Free Spins feature is the ability to have an improved Scatter (Coin) reward based on how many scatter symbols were landed. There are three possible ways to trigger Free Spins:

The structure usually looks like this:

Scatters                      Free Spins                Extra Prize

• 3 Scatters               10 Free Spins          1x
• 4 Scatters               10 Free Spins          10x
• 5 Scatters                10 Free Spins         100x

Regardless of the number of scatter symbols landed, the number of Free Spins remains constant at ten. The Scatter reward is solely dependent on how many scatter symbols were landed. The Power Stacks feature becomes more beneficial during Free Spins as it allows for stacking of Wild symbols and Coin symbols. The Power Stacks feature provides added engagement to the Free Spins round. While stacked Wilds enhance any non-bonus win, stacked Coins provide increased chances for triggering or increasing the coin-based features.

A disadvantage of the Free Spins feature is that the Free Spins can rarely be re-triggered depending on the game rules stated in the Pay Table. This limits the runaway potential of the Free Spins round. Despite this limitation, the Free Spins feature can be rewarding when Wilds and Coins are stacked at appropriate times. For many players, the Free Spins feature may be perceived as being more balanced than the Ultra Link & Win feature because Free Spins combine line wins and the opportunity for bonus symbol wins. It’s not simply about locking coins until a reset occurs. While the Free Spins provide a similar rhythm as traditional slot spins, they occur with better conditions.

Bonus Buy and Feature Buy Options

As mentioned earlier, the Links of RA II game includes a Feature Buy option in jurisdictions where bonus buying is permitted. This enables players to purchase a fixed amount to immediately initiate certain bonus features rather than having to wait for them to occur naturally.

Commonly found Feature Buy options include:

Feature   Buy Option                                   Cost
Ultra Link & Win                                          40 x Bet
Max Mode Ultra Link & Win                     80 x Bet
Multiplier Mode Ultra Link & Win          110 x Bet
Collect Mode Ultra Link & Win                165 x Bet

While the basic Ultra Link & Win Buy option is the lowest cost, Collect Mode is the highest cost option. As the cost of the Feature Buy increases, so too does the potential benefit from the corresponding ultra-link feature. Whether or not you should utilize the Feature Buy option(s), ultimately rests with your individual budget and willingness to take risks.

While the bonus buy can be appealing due to eliminating waiting time and providing instant access to bonus features, it can also significantly increase risk. Although purchasing a 165 x Collect Mode could result in a large payout, it can rapidly deplete your account balance if the ultra-link feature yields poor returns. Even strong bonus modes can experience subpar performance.

Before spending real money, testing the slot via Demo Mode is recommended. This will enable you to compare and contrast the basic ultra-link feature versus the various enhanced ultra-link modes and determine which one aligns with your gaming preferences. Personally, I view the Feature Buy as a high-risk quick fix rather than a more intelligent way to play. It can certainly be enjoyable; however, it can quickly drain your bankroll.

Strengths and Weaknesses of Links of RA II

Like any slot machine, Links of RA II is not perfect. While it possesses numerous desirable characteristics related to its bonus features, there are aspects of the game that some players might find less desirable.

Positive Aspects of Links of RA II

One major positive aspect of Links of RA II is undoubtedly its Ultra Link & Win feature. This feature establishes a distinct identity for the game regarding its bonus capabilities and maintains interest in the coin mechanisms. Additionally, Booster Coins contribute another degree of complexity/variety into the game. Furthermore, utilizing multiple Ultra Link & Win modes within Links of RA II offers additional opportunities for players to experience different variations of this primary feature.

In addition, Power Stacks is advantageous as it enhances both the base game and Free Spins with more activity. Stacked Wilds can create greater regular wins, while stacked Coins can produce a larger possibility of activating or enhancing coin-related elements.

However, there are some disadvantages associated with Links of RA II.

First, the theme of the game is somewhat unoriginal since ancient Egypt has been overused in online slots and anything that utilizes this theme now must have an extraordinary concept to create an element of freshness. Although Links of RA II appears visually appealing and functions well, it introduces nothing novel with respect to its visual representation.

Additionally, base game activity may seem sluggish if players land insufficient Coin symbols to activate the bonus and their session becomes repetitive.

Finally, Links of RA II has a lower top prize than its predecessor, Links of Ra, which may disappoint those who enjoyed that game’s higher ceiling.

Furthermore, prices for buying bonus features are high. Therefore, only those who are comfortable with taking significant risk should use Collect Mode at a price tag of 165x their bet.

Who Will Enjoy Links of RA II?

Based on its core feature set, Links of RA II will appeal primarily to players who appreciate feature-heavy slots featuring coin-based bonus rounds. If you are attracted to Hold-and-Win type games with respins/multipliers/collectors/bonus buy options, then this game likely contains enough content to keep you engaged.

This slot is also suitable for players who enjoy Ancient Egypt-themed games and do not mind seeing common Egyptian symbols represented in a visually appealing manner. Although Links of RA II does not innovate the Egyptian slot theme, it presents this theme in a modern format.

Some examples of slot types that you may enjoy if you enjoy Links of RA II include:

• Slots with High Volatility
• Coin Collection Features
• Hold-and-Win type Bonus Rounds
• Free Spin Games with stacked symbols
• Slots offering Bonus Buy options
• Slots centered around Ancient Egyptian Mythology
• Releases from Game Global or SlingShot Studios

Conversely, you may wish to avoid Links of RA II if you prefer Low-Volatility slots, frequent small wins, simple payline configurations or extremely unique themes. Links of RA II is not intended to be a relaxing slot game. Patience is required.

Conclusion: Is Links of RA II Worth Playing?

Links of RA II is an attractive, feature-rich Egyptian slot machine focusing on coin mechanics. The gameplay has sufficient substance through its Ultra Link & Win system along with its Power Stacks feature, Booster Coins, Free Spins, and Collection Pot Feature.

Although Links of RA II has an old-school theme, its 96.05% RTP is competitive among current slots when available, and its 10,000x max win provides significant potential for winning big. Due to its high-volatility nature, it will not appeal equally to all players. Sessions may run slowly at times, while other sessions may produce exciting moments as the bonuses connect.

Overall, Links of RA II’s strongest attribute lies in its varied ultra link modes. By adding booster coins and multiple ultra link modes, Links of Ra II creates a richer sense of replayability than average hold-and-win slots. However, Links of Ra II uses a relatively safe theme choice by sticking with an established “ancient Egypt” setting. If you’re seeking an entirely new idea, Links of Ra II probably won’t deliver. However, if you’re interested in a modern Egyptian slot with clean and understandable mechanics, along with reasonable max win levels, Links of Ra II is definitely worth considering.

Prioritize testing Links of Ra II through demo mode prior to spending money on real currency. Test out how much you like the base game experience and check out how much you like the various enhanced versions offered through bonus buy. Once you’ve decided to wager real money, consider keeping your bets manageable and maintaining realistic expectations for your earnings.

Do you agree with my assessment? Do you have more interest in the Ultra Link & Win feature itself? The Free Spins round? The Feature Buy options? How about comparing notes with other players prior to establishing this as a favorite?

Frequently Asked Questions About Links Of Ra II

What distinguishes Links of RA II  from Links of RA I?
Links of RA II retains the Egyptian theme and coin-styled gameplay from Links of RA I but incorporates an expanded suite of bonus features. The largest difference lies in Links of Ra II’s use of an enhanced Ultra Link & Win feature including Booster Coins, multiple ultra link modes, respins, multipliers, and collector elements. The original Links of Ra I had a higher maximum win, but Links of Ra II has a more contemporary and more heavily featured presentation.

What is the rtp for links of Ra II?

The RTP for Links of Ra II is approximately 96.05%.

Are there any differences in terms of RTP between various versions?

Some casinos may display lower RTP percentages than others. Prior to wagering real money, ensure that you review your in-game pay table to confirm which version you are using. The RTP represents your theoretical long-term percentage return for your bets; it does NOT represent how much you’ll earn per session.

Is Links of Ra II considered a high volatility slot machine?

Yes, Links of Ra II is classified as a high volatility slot machine. Consequently, you may encounter longer periods without earning rewards, but when you do receive rewards, they tend to be higher.

How many fixed pay lines does Links of Ra II possess?

Links of Ra II has forty fixed pay lines across five reels with four rows. Because all thirty-five pay lines are fixed, each spin will utilize all available pay lines regardless of your chosen wager size.

How do free spins become activated in Links of Ra II?

Free Spins are activated by landing three or more Scatter Symbols. The player will receive ten Free Spins and their Scatter Reward will depend on how many Scatter Symbols were originally landed.

Are free spins re-activatable in Links of Ra II?

Generally speaking, free spins cannot be reactivated repeatedly throughout the course of the round, whereas some other games allow this capability. The primary benefit from the round lies in obtaining stacked wilds and stacked coins combined with potentially connecting with coin-based elements within Links of Ra II.

Is there a bonus buy feature included within Links of Ra II?

Yes; links of ra ii includes a feature buy option in applicable jurisdictions.

What is included within each bonus buy option?

Each feature buy option provides direct access to an applicable ultra link & win mode; these options vary in price and level of enhancement relative to their respective counterparts.