Trick or Treat? Microgaming launches its thrilling Halloween® online slot
Following the signing of a licensing agreement announced in July, Microgaming has developed an online slot based on the 1978 American independent slasher film. The movie was directed and scored by John Carpenter, co-written with producer Debra Hill, and starred Donald Pleasence and Jamie Lee Curtis in her film debut. It centres on the character Michael Myers, who on Halloween night in 1963 at the age of six, murdered his sister. 15 years later, he returns to the fictional midwestern town of Haddonfield, Illinois, to continue his killing spree.
Microgaming’s Halloween online slot is a 50 line game with the reel set representing Michael’s dark and derelict house. Much like the film, Michael persistently stalks the game; players may see him lurking in the window or behind the clothesline. The game also features iconic sound bites from the movie, along with the chilling soundtrack.
Feature rich, the slot introduces Wandering Reels, a group of three reels that spin together. The Wandering Reels contain Jumbo Blocks, which are large 3×4 high symbols that span three reels. The Wandering Reels can stop in one of three positions at random in the base game, which determines the reels and lines played, adding significantly to the sense of anticipation of the game. The feature allows for big wins, especially when it sticks to the leftmost position on the reels.
Adding suspense to the game, the Trick or Treat Wheel Bonus is triggered by three bonus symbols in the base game, and offers players the opportunity to multiply their stake with cash prizes, until they enter either the Boogeyman Bonus or Free Spins.
The Boogeyman Bonus is a pick bonus that takes place inside Michael Myers’ house. With the bonus’ atmosphere representing the eerie nature of the film, players must escape Michael, as finding him ends the bonus round. Leaves reveal cash prizes which are combined with a multiplier that increases every time the player finds a cash prize, moving them closer to escaping the house. Players may find an immunity weapon, which can be used to prolong the bonus round if Michael is picked.
Free Spins are triggered on the bonus wheel if the player lands on any character (Laurie, Loomis, Annie or Lynda), except Michael. Nine free spins are awarded, during which, the triggering character will replace all other high symbols, including Jumbo Blocks. The Free Spins round takes place at night time and the Wandering Reels move to fixed positions over the nine free spins.
David Reynolds, Games Publisher at Microgaming, comments: “Our Halloween online slot is a celebration of the classic horror film. The game studio creating this game are big fans of the movie and brand, and I think the passion they have is evident in the game. The design and storytelling is superb and it presents a range of environmental effects that add to the suspense. This is combined with a feature rich game engine that will continually thrill players. As Sheriff Brackett says, ‘It’s Halloween, everyone’s entitled to one good scare’.”
Microgaming signed the agreement for Halloween through Compass International Pictures, brokered by Creative Licensing Corporation.“The mechanics on the ‘Halloween’ game from Microgaming are truly exceptional. They developed new pay tables and new ways to win that I think fit beautifully within the game,” says Stephanie Kupperman, Director of Business Development for Creative Licensing.
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