Skeleton Key Slot: Comprehensive Data Analysis
Core Game Specifications
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Developer | IGT |
| Release Date | 2020‑12‑17 |
| Theme | treasure hunt, spooky cave, jewels |
| Layout | 5×3 expanding to 5×6 |
| Paylines | 243 ways (base) increasing to 7,776 ways |
| Bet Range | 0.10–300 |
| Core Mechanics | Reel Expansion unlocking covered rows, Mystery Symbols transforming into matching symbols, Free Spins with accumulating multiplier, Retriggerable free spins up to 200 |
| Technology | JS and HTML5 |
| Platform | Mobile and desktop compatible |
Mathematical & Payout Model
Return to Player (RTP)
96%
Volatility
Medium - High
Max Win Potential
83333x
Symbols & Paytable Hierarchy
| Tier | Symbol(s) | Function & Value |
|---|---|---|
| Low Tier | J, Q, K, A | Provides small, frequent wins to maintain gameplay. |
| Mid Tier | green gem, red gem, purple gem, spellbook, chalice | Thematic items offering moderate payouts. |
| High Tier | treasure chest | Highest paying symbols. Top hits available with full combinations. |
| Wild | Wild symbol | Acts as a substitute / feature trigger per game rules. |
| Scatter | Padlock scatter | Triggers free spins / bonus round when enough appear. |
Skeleton Key Bonus Features Mechanics
| Feature | Trigger | Initial Award | Core Mechanic | Enhancement/Retrigger |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reel Expansion | Skeleton Key symbol lands | Expands reel from 3 to 6 rows, increasing ways to win | ||
| Free Spins with Multiplier | Three or more padlock scatters | 10–30 free spins | Free spins with accumulating multiplier per key | Retriggers up to 200 free spins |
| Mystery Symbol | Mystery symbol appears | Transforms all mystery symbols into same symbol | Can transform into key during free spins |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
| What is the RTP of Skeleton Key? | The RTP is 96%. |
| How volatile is the game? | The volatility is medium‑high. |
| What is the maximum win? | The maximum win is 83333x the stake. |
| How do I trigger free spins? | Land three or more padlock scatter symbols to trigger free spins. |
| How does the multiplier work in free spins? | Each Skeleton Key landed during free spins adds 1× to the accumulating multiplier. |
| Can free spins be retriggered? | Yes, free spins can be retriggered up to a maximum of 200 spins. |
| What does the Mystery Symbol do? | Mystery Symbols transform into the same symbol to help form wins. |
Skeleton Key Performance Summary: Strengths vs. Weaknesses
Strengths
- High maximum win potential
- Engaging expanding reel mechanic
- Free spins with accumulating multiplier
- Strong visual theme and animations
Weaknesses
- Medium‑high volatility may require patience
- Hit frequency not specified
Overview
Skeleton Key is a medium‑high volatility slot by IGT featuring expanding reels, mystery symbols, and a free spins bonus with an increasing win multiplier. It starts on a 5×3 grid with 243 ways to win and can expand to 5×6 with up to 7,776 ways. The free spins round awards 10–30 spins and retriggers up to 200 spins, with each key adding to a progressive multiplier.
Rachel Pine is our slots expert who has worked in the online gambling industry for 10+ years. Over the course of her career, Rachel has reviewed more than 30,000 slots.
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