In May 2009, NetEnt wowed us with Dead or Alive. This highly-volatile video slot transported us to a world of rugged outlaws, crime-busting sheriffs and sharp-shooting cowboys. With awesome graphics and epic payout potential, it won the praise of game critics and players alike, and quickly found itself on every online casino’s most-wanted list.
When news broke of a sequel almost a decade later, excitement levels were high amongst the world’s die-hard DOA fans. But does Dead or Alive II live up to the hype? Here’s what we think now we’ve had the chance to spin it for ourselves.
Feel and Theme
In terms of style, Dead or Alive II has the same Old West-theme as its predecessor. However, the graphics and sounds are much sharper.
Expect to see 3D symbols like sheriff badges, pistols, cowboy hats and whisky bottles on the reels, and hear a wicked Western soundtrack playing as you spin. Even the outlaws that starred in the original slot – Billy the Kid, Jesse James, etc. – have had bit of a makeover; they now look a lot tougher, and far less cartoonish, than we remember.
Gameplay
And what about the important part, the gameplay?
If you like the setup of the classic DOA slot machine, you’ll not be disappointed with the sequel. Dead or Alive II operates with the same 9 bet lines, 5 reels and 96.82% RTP.
As we all know, one of the biggest draws of DOA was its high volatility. Those who enjoy high-stake thrills will be glad to hear Dead or Alive II is just as volatile, if not more so. In fact, we’d go as far as to say it’s the most volatile slots game we’ve spun this year.
Bonus Features
When it comes to bonus features, Dead or Alive II is all about the Free Spins. Land 3 or more Scatters anywhere on the reels in the main game and you’ll win access to 1 of 3 kinds of Free Spins Bonus, where it’s possible to win over 100,000 your stake. Check them out:
1) Old Saloon Free Spins
Step into the Old Saloon armed with 12 Free Spins. All your payouts will be doubled by a x2 Multiplier. Plus, each time you land a Sticky Wild on the reels, you’ll load up on an extra 5 Free Spins.
2) High Noon Saloon Free Spins
High Noon heralds the arrival of 12 Free Spins, with plenty of Multiplier action. Whenever 2 Sticky Wilds land on the same reel, they transform into Double Multiplier Wilds. And whenever 3 Sticky Wilds land on the same reel, they transform into Triple Multiplier Wilds.
3) Train Heist Free Spins
Load up on ill-gotten gains in the Train Heist, where you’ll again start with 12 Free Spins. Every time a Sticky Wild lands on the reels, you’ll be awarded 1 extra Free Spin. Plus, the Multiplier Meter shown on the screen will increase by +1. Watch it keep increasing until it hits x16, at which point you’ll unlock it and win an extra 5 Free Spins.
Our Verdict
If you loved the Western theme and high volatility of the original Dead or Alive slot, we’d certainly recommend a spin of the sequel. Dead or Alive II boasts better graphics, bigger wins and even more badass cowboys. It gets a big thumbs up from us.