If you’ve ever spun the reels of a slot machine, you’ve probably come across the term ‘Wild Symbols.’
But what exactly do these wild symbols do, and why are they such a big deal? Whether it’s in a physical casino or an online platform, Wild Symbols are one of those sought-after features players actually check before they play the game.
In this review, we’ll find out everything you need to know about these symbols. We’ll look into what makes them so special and how they make slot games more fun. We’re also going to pick apart the different types of Wild Symbols out there (yes, there are different types).
What Are Wild Symbols in Slot Games?
You’ve played them. You’ve seen them. But what exactly are they? Let’s find out here:
The Purpose of Wild Symbols
Wild symbols in slots are like little bombs of fun that make the game more entertaining. They can stand in for other symbols to help you complete winning combinations.
Think of them as the blank tile in Scrabble. They can substitute for other symbols and give you more chances to hit those big payouts. So, if you’re just one symbol short of a winning line, wild slots might just be what you need to save the day!
How Wilds Enhance Slot Gameplay
Wilds aren’t just about making combinations easier. They also make the game more fascinating, and more interesting! They’re often added in bonus features, free spins, and special multipliers.
Why Wild Symbols Are So Popular Among Slot Players
There’s a reason wild symbols are loved by slot players everywhere – and it’s not just because they look cool! Wilds give players more opportunities to win by filling in gaps, triggering bonus rounds, and even expanding across the reels.
Types of Wild Symbols and How They Work
Not all wilds are created equal! There are a bunch of different types of wild symbols, each with its own special powers. Here are some of the most common wild symbols that you may or may have not already run into:

Standard Wilds
This is the most common type you’ll find in the wild (get it?). Standard wilds substitute for regular symbols and help you complete winning combinations. They’re simple, effective, and always a sight to see on the reels!
Expanding Wilds
Expanding wilds are like the ripe tomatoes in the bunch, making the surrounding tomatoes ripe and ready for the picking! When they land on a reel, they expand to fill the entire reel. This creates even more winning combinations across multiple lines for that super rewarding experience. The more expanding wilds you land, the better!
Sticky Wilds
Sticky wilds are wild symbols that “stick” in place for several spins. They can be especially valuable during free spins or bonus rounds since they stay locked on the reels for multiple turns.
Stacked Wilds
Stacked wilds are exactly what the name suggests. They appear in a stack and fill up multiple positions on the reel. These can make your paylines even stronger by covering several spots at once
Walking Wilds
Walking wilds are a bit like a wild symbol on the move! Instead of staying in one spot, walking wilds “walk” across the reels from one spot to another. They usually shift by one position per spin. There’s no guessing where it might go next!
How to Use Wild Symbols to Maximize Your Winnings
Ready to put those wilds to the test? Here’s how you do it:

Recognize High-Payout Wild Symbols
Not all slot games are the same. Therefore, not all wild symbols are created equal, especially when it comes to payouts. Some slots have high-value wild slots symbols that can trigger bigger wins, multipliers, or bonus features.
Be on the lookout for these powerful wilds, as they can be a real delight to play.
Look for Games With Multiple Wild Types
Some slot games feature more than one type of wild symbol. For example, you might have expanding wilds during regular spins and sticky wilds during free spins! When you play a game with multiple wild types, it’s not only double or triple the fun, but it also gives you more opportunities to get moolah!
Utilize Wild Features During Free Spins and Bonus Rounds
Wilds are often at their best during bonus rounds and free spins. Look for games that have wild multipliers or sticky wilds during these features to really amp up the chances of hitting it big.
Top Slots Featuring Unique Wild Symbols
Ready to see wild symbols in action? Check out these top slots that feature some of the most exciting wild symbols out there!
Starburst – NetEnt
Starburst is one of the most popular wild slot machine out there, and for good reason! This game features expanding wilds that cover entire reels and help trigger re-spins. On top of that, it’s a visually appealing slot game from one of the industry’s leaders, NetEnt.
Wolf Gold – Pragmatic Play
Wolf Gold will leave you howling for more wins at every turn! This game features stacked wilds that cover the entire column, helping you make more winning combinations! Plus, the game has a cool bonus round that comes with even more wild symbols. Oh, did we mention there are three jackpots?!
Savage Jungle – Playtech
Savage Jungle is packed with walking wilds that move across the reels with every spin. This jungle-themed game is full of surprises as the wilds change positions. It’s an exciting adventure with lots of wild potential!
The Difference Between Wild Symbols and Scatter Symbols
You’ve probably seen scatter symbols popping up in your favourite slots, but how do they compare to wilds? Let’s see!
How to Use Wild and Scatter Symbols Together for Bigger Wins
Wild symbols are there to create winning combinations by substituting for other symbols. Scatter symbols, on the other hand, usually trigger bonus rounds, free spins, or special features.
Together, wilds and scatters create a powerful combo for a slot game. Scatters might trigger free spins, and if you land wilds during that bonus round, you could get even bigger payouts!
FAQs
Wild symbols help complete winning combinations by substituting for other symbols. They can also trigger special features, like free spins or multipliers.
While wild symbols boost your chances of hitting a win, they don’t guarantee big payouts. But they definitely increase the odds by helping you complete more winning combinations.
Expanding wilds and sticky wilds are often the best for high payouts, as they stay in place for multiple spins or cover multiple positions on the reels.
Most online slots feature wild symbols, but not all. It’s always a good idea to check the slot game’s paytable before you start playing to see if wilds are part of the action.
While wild symbols substitute for other symbols to complete winning combos, scatter symbols usually trigger bonus rounds or free spins. Both are important for boosting your chances of winning.