Book Of Ra
Welcome to Book of Ra
We invite you to discover Book of Ra, a landmark slot that has captivated players in the UK and across the globe. Developed by Novomatic (Greentube), it transports us to ancient Egypt with a clear goal: uncover hidden tombs and treasure. The design is simple yet immersive, and the game’s core concept has stood the test of time for good reason.
| Developer | Novomatic (Greentube) |
|---|---|
| Original Release Year | 2005 (Classic version) |
| Theme | Ancient Egypt, Adventure |
| Layout | 5 Reels, 3 Rows |
| Paylines | Up to 10 (adjustable) |
| Volatility | High |
| Key Feature | Free Spins with a Special Expanding Symbol |
Over many years Book of Ra has become a cult favourite by blending easy access with moments of real excitement. Players in the UK appreciate its mechanics and the atmosphere that grows with every spin. We follow an explorer on the hunt for a mysterious book. That same book symbol acts as both Wild and Scatter. It can substitute for other symbols and activate the features that define the game.
What makes it special
Book of Ra stands out for its straightforward gameplay loop and high volatility. The Egyptian theme drives the action rather than remaining in the background. Symbols such as scarabs, sarcophagi, and the explorer keep the story clear. The fan-favourite version, Book of Ra Deluxe, sharpened the classic formula with improved graphics and 10 paylines, while keeping the adjustable setup that players know and love.
We continue to see strong interest in the UK’s regulated market because the game suits a range of play styles. New players find it easy to get started. Experienced players enjoy the risk profile and the potential of the expanding symbol during free spins. Official versions on UKGC licensed operators provide the authentic experience with proper oversight.
Game Overview
Here we take a look at Book of Ra, the Novomatic slot from the Greentube studio that played a pivotal role in shaping the genre in the UK. It features a five reel, three row layout and first gained popularity in land-based venues before making the move online. The Classic version offers nine selectable paylines, while Book of Ra Deluxe expands the grid to ten. Both versions are widely available on platforms licensed by the UK Gambling Commission, making access straightforward for players across the United Kingdom.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Developer | Novomatic Greentube |
| Reels / Rows | 5 / 3 |
| Paylines | 9 Classic / 10 Deluxe |
| RTP | ~92.13% Classic / ~95.10% Deluxe |
| Volatility | High |
| Max win | 5,000x the line bet |
| Highlights | Wild Scatter Book, Free Spins with Special Expanding Symbol, Gamble |
RTP and volatility
The theoretical return varies depending on the version. The Classic sits at about 92.13% RTP, while the Deluxe increases this to roughly 95.10%. Both are designed with high volatility in mind. That means there may be quieter periods followed by the chance for bigger wins. This style is well suited to players who enjoy higher risk and the potential for larger payouts rather than more frequent, smaller wins.
Mechanics at a glance
You select a bet per line and the number of active paylines before spinning, with limits set by each UK licensed casino. Wins pay from left to right on active lines for three or more matching symbols. The Adventurer is the highest paying symbol, awarding 5,000 times the line bet for five in a row.
The Book symbol is central to the gameplay. It acts as a Wild to complete winning combinations and as a Scatter to trigger 10 free spins when three or more appear anywhere. Before free spins begin, one symbol is chosen to expand and cover reels when it forms wins.
After any base game win, you can use the Gamble feature. This gives you a 50/50 chance to double your winnings by guessing the colour of a face down card. An incorrect guess loses the win from that spin. You can repeat the gamble as many times as you like, at your own discretion.
How to Play
We can jump into Book of Ra in just a few quick steps. Whether we prefer the Classic edition or the ever-popular Deluxe version, the process remains straightforward and easy to follow.
Set lines and bet
We begin by selecting paylines. Book of Ra Classic allows us to adjust up to 9 paylines. Book of Ra Deluxe features 10 fixed paylines, so we always play on all ten. Next, we set our stake per line using the + and − buttons. In Deluxe, this usually ranges from £0.01 to £5.00 per line, making the total spin cost from £0.10 to £50. Our total stake is always displayed on screen.
Spin or autoplay
When we're happy with our bet, we press Start or Spin to set the five reels spinning. If we prefer continuous play, we can enable Autoplay and select a number of automatic spins. In accordance with UK regulations, we can set loss limits and single win limits to ensure responsible gaming.
Wins and key symbols
Wins occur when matching symbols line up from left to right on an active payline. Most symbols require at least three in a row. High-value icons are an exception: the Explorer, Pharaoh, Statue of Isis, and Scarab Beetle pay out with just two. The in-game paytable displays the exact payouts for every combination and updates according to our current bet size.
The golden Book of Ra is the symbol to look out for. It acts as a Wild, substituting for other symbols to complete lines. It also serves as the Scatter. Landing three or more anywhere on the reels triggers the main bonus feature.
Gamble feature
After any standard win, we can choose to enter the Gamble feature. It’s a simple double or nothing game: we predict the next card’s colour, red or black. A correct guess doubles the win, and we can gamble again. An incorrect guess loses the entire amount from that spin.
Special Features
The Book symbol
The Book of Ra symbol acts as both Scatter and Wild. It substitutes for any other symbol to complete wins, and three or more Books landing anywhere on the reels trigger the free spins round. As it unlocks the bonus and also substitutes for all symbols, it is the most valuable icon we can land during play for UK players.
Free spins and expanding symbols
Three or more Book symbols award 10 free spins. Before the round begins, the game randomly selects one regular symbol to act as a special expanding symbol. During the feature, when enough of that symbol land to create a win, all its instances expand to cover their reels.
For high paying picture symbols, only two or more are needed to trigger the expansion. For the lower paying card values, we need three or more. Expanded wins pay even on non-adjacent reels, which can boost the total payout compared to standard line wins.
The bonus can retrigger. Landing another set of three or more Book symbols during free spins adds 10 extra spins, and the same special symbol stays active. There is no theoretical limit to how many times this can occur.
High value Egyptian symbols
The paytable follows a clear order, which is important for the expanding symbol feature. In descending value, the main symbols are:
- Explorer: the highest paying regular symbol
- Pharaoh’s Sarcophagus: the second most valuable
- Statue of Isis & Scarab Beetle: mid-range payouts
- A, K, Q, J, 10: lower paying card symbols styled to fit the theme
Gamble feature
After any winning spin in the base game, we can choose the optional Gamble. A single face down card appears and we guess red or black. A correct guess doubles the win, and we may repeat this for several rounds. A wrong guess at any point loses the entire amount from that spin. Pure risk versus reward for those who fancy it.
Bonuses and Promotions
We know bonuses can enhance our Book of Ra sessions on UK platforms. Licensed operators regulated by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) tend to offer several types of promotions that suit this slot, providing extra value and more play time.
| Bonus Type | What it is | Common Example in the UK |
|---|---|---|
| Welcome Bonus | For new players, usually linked to the first deposit | 100% match up to £200 + 50 Free Spins |
| Free Spins | A set number of spins on a selected slot at no cost | 25 Free Spins on Book of Ra Deluxe |
| No Deposit Bonus | Bonus credit or spins granted for registering an account | £5 bonus credit or 10 Free Spins upon sign up |
| Reload Bonus | A top up offer for later deposits by existing players | 50% match up to £100 on your next deposit |
Welcome packages
Most UK casinos offer new players a deposit match that can be used on Book of Ra. A typical offer is a 100% match up to £200, doubling your first deposit. Some platforms also include free spins for Novomatic slots, so you can start with complimentary rounds on Book of Ra or its variants.
Free spins and no deposit offers
Free spins can be given as a standalone offer or as part of a welcome package. The spins are free to use, but any winnings usually come with wagering requirements. For example, if you win £10 with a 35x requirement, you must wager £350 before you can withdraw. Some operators also provide no deposit bonuses, giving you a small amount of bonus cash or a few free spins just for registering, with no deposit required.
Reload and loyalty rewards
Regular play can unlock reload bonuses on future deposits. Many UK sites also run loyalty schemes where your Book of Ra play earns points. These points can be exchanged for bonus credits or extra free spins.
Before claiming any promotion, always check the terms and conditions. Important factors include wagering requirements, game contribution (slots usually count 100%), maximum bet limits, and time restrictions. UKGC licensed casinos display these details clearly to ensure transparency.
Game Legality and Licences
In the UK, we can play Book of Ra legally only on online casinos licensed by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC). This authority supervises all gambling within the country and enforces strict rules on fairness and security. To stay within UK law, we choose platforms that clearly display a valid UKGC licence number, which signals that both the casino and the game meet national compliance standards.
UKGC Licensing Requirements
To offer Book of Ra to UK players, operators must obtain a UKGC gambling licence. The process is rigorous and focused on player safety and market integrity:
- Technical audits: The software and RNG are tested by an independent, UKGC-approved lab to ensure fair, unpredictable results.
- Financial stability: Operators must prove they have resources to pay winnings and sustain operations.
- Responsible gambling: Platforms must include mandatory tools and clear information on gambling risks.
- Data security: Compliance with UK and EU privacy laws, including GDPR, is required to protect player data.
Player Protection Standards
UK rules set concrete safeguards. Licensed Book of Ra sites offer weekly deposit limits in pounds sterling (£), temporary or permanent self-exclusion, and reality checks that show session time and spending. UKGC-approved operators also face regular audits to confirm fair outcomes and timely payouts. These checks keep the gaming environment transparent and secure.
How to Verify a Casino’s UKGC Licence
- Find the licence number: In the site footer, look for the UKGC logo and the licence number.
- Match it on the UKGC site: Use the official database to confirm the number is active and tied to that casino.
- Check the connection: Make sure the site uses HTTPS with a padlock to protect your data.
Using unlicensed sites carries real risks. They operate outside UK jurisdiction and UKGC oversight, may skip security protocols, run non-certified software, or deny payouts. UK law bans unauthorised gambling sites, and players who use them lose the legal protections guaranteed by licensed operators.
Winning Strategies
Understand the mechanics
Success with Book of Ra begins with understanding how the slot operates. Spins are governed by a Random Number Generator, so each outcome is entirely independent and random. By studying the paytable and symbol values, we can better decide on our bet sizes. The Book symbol is at the heart of the game, acting as both Wild and Scatter. When three or more Books appear, the main bonus feature is activated. Book of Ra is a high volatility slot, so wins can be substantial but tend to occur less often.
Manage your bankroll
We set a clear budget before each session and establish a maximum loss limit, a sensible approach for UK players. High volatility can lead to lengthy dry spells, so your bankroll should be able to cope with the ups and downs while waiting for free spins. Dividing your funds into smaller session amounts is wiser than staking everything in one go. This allows us to play for longer and improves our chances of triggering the bonus round on licensed UK sites.
Choose a betting style
We begin with lower stakes to get a feel for the game’s pace without quickly depleting our funds. As we settle in, we adjust our bets with purpose. Many of us play all available paylines, usually 9 or 10 depending on the version, to maximise our chances of landing a winning combination. Two popular approaches are compared below:
| Strategy Element | Conservative Approach | Aggressive Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Goal | Extend playtime and increase spins to trigger the bonus feature | Maximise potential payout from a single bonus round |
| Bet Size | Lower stakes covering all active paylines | Higher stakes per spin |
| Risk Level | Lower risk per spin, slower bankroll depletion | Higher risk per spin, faster bankroll depletion |
| Ideal For | Smaller budgets or longer sessions | Larger bankrolls comfortable with higher risk |
Use the free spins
The free spins round offers the highest win potential in Book of Ra. Landing three or more Book symbols awards 10 free spins. Before the round begins, one symbol is randomly selected as a special expanding symbol. During the bonus, if that symbol lands on enough reels to form a win, it expands to fill the entire reel and pays out on all active lines, even if the symbols are not adjacent. Hitting a high value symbol as the expander is the key to the biggest prizes. The top choices include:
- Explorer
- Pharaoh’s Sarcophagus
- Statue of Isis
- Scarab Beetle
We can’t guarantee wins, but these strategies help us play more wisely and make our money last longer on licensed UK sites
Payment Methods
Deposit options for UK players
When we play Book of Ra on UKGC licensed sites in the UK, we can choose from trusted and secure deposit methods. Most operators accept major cards like Visa and Mastercard, which many of us still prefer. While Postepay is popular in Italy, in the UK, prepaid cards and e-wallets are more commonly used. E-wallets such as PayPal, Skrill, and Neteller are also popular and usually process funds faster than traditional banking. Bank transfers are available too, though they take longer to clear. If we don’t want to share banking details online, prepaid options like Paysafecard help keep payments private. The minimum deposit usually starts at £10, but this can vary from one operator to another.
| Payment Method | Type | Average Deposit Time | Average Withdrawal Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visa/Mastercard | Credit/Debit Card | Instant | 2-5 Business Days |
| Prepaid Cards | Prepaid/Debit Card | Instant | 1-3 Business Days |
| PayPal | E-Wallet | Instant | Within 24 Hours |
| Skrill/Neteller | E-Wallet | Instant | Within 24 Hours |
| Bank Transfer | Bank Wire | 1-5 Business Days | 3-7 Business Days |
| Paysafecard | Prepaid Card | Instant | Not always available for withdrawal |
Withdrawals
Cash-out methods usually match our deposit choice. Timings differ, though. E-wallets are the quickest and often pay within 24 hours after approval by the casino. Card withdrawals tend to take two to five business days. Bank transfers are slower and may take a week or longer depending on the bank’s processing.
Verification
Before the first withdrawal, UKGC rules require a one-off identity check. To meet anti-money laundering requirements, we must provide proof of identity, such as a driving licence or passport, and a document confirming our address. This is a standard security step on all licensed platforms and helps keep accounts safe.
Currency and limits
Transactions on UK-licensed platforms are processed in Pounds Sterling (GBP), so we avoid conversion issues. Maximum withdrawal limits differ by casino and may include daily, weekly, or monthly caps. VIP or high-roller accounts can sometimes access higher limits as stated in the site’s terms.
Fees
We always check for any transaction fees in advance. Most casinos don’t charge for deposits or withdrawals, but some payment providers may apply their own service costs.
Mobile Gaming
We enjoy Book of Ra, powered by Greentube, Novomatic’s interactive division, running seamlessly on mobile thanks to HTML5. UK players can spin in seconds without needing a separate app. The game opens through mobile browsers like Safari and Chrome and is available for instant play on licensed UK casino sites. Navigation is intuitive on smaller screens, and the core gameplay matches the desktop version, so we don’t miss out on any features when switching devices.
Device compatibility
We access Book of Ra on iPhone and iPad through any UK Gambling Commission-licensed casino website. The layout automatically adapts to the screen size, from the compact iPhone SE right up to the large iPad Pro displays. On Android, we get the same flexibility across Samsung, Huawei, and other popular brands in the UK. We have tested devices on Android 8.0 and above and found the performance consistent and reliable throughout our sessions.
Mobile features and controls
The interface is made for touch. Tapping the spin button is responsive, and on some platforms we can swipe to adjust bet amounts. The paytable and settings are tucked away in compact menus to save space. Graphics retain their style and colour, although intricate details in the Egyptian symbols can appear less sharp on smaller screens compared to a desktop monitor. Both portrait and landscape modes are supported, so we choose whichever view feels most comfortable.
- Controls: Touch taps and swipes on mobile vs mouse clicks on desktop
- Layout: Optimised for portrait and landscape on mobile; desktop maintains a wider fixed view
- Accessibility: Play anywhere with a mobile connection vs being restricted to a computer
- Performance: Mobile depends on device power and connection; desktop is generally steadier
Data usage remains modest. An hour of play typically uses 30–50 MB, which is ideal for limited data plans many UK users rely on. For longer sessions we prefer a stable WiFi connection to avoid potential dropouts, especially during bonus rounds. Battery drain varies depending on device age and screen brightness. Newer phones run efficiently, while older models may warm up during extended play. We close background apps and reduce brightness to make sessions last longer.
FAQ
Is Book of Ra legal to play in the UK?
Yes. We can play Book of Ra in the UK on casino sites that hold a valid UKGC licence. UKGC stands for the United Kingdom Gambling Commission. To ensure we’re on a regulated and secure platform, we always check the operator’s licence number, usually displayed in the website footer.
Can I play Book of Ra for free?
Most licensed UK casinos offer a demo mode with virtual credits, so we can try the game without risking real money. It’s an easy way to learn the mechanics and main features before betting cash. Some UKGC sites might ask us to register an account before we can access free play.
What is the minimum bet for Book of Ra?
In Book of Ra Deluxe, the typical minimum bet is £0.10 per spin. That covers all 10 paylines at £0.01 per line. Maximum bets vary by casino and can often reach £50 or more. We should always check the exact betting limits available inside the game on our chosen platform.
How do I trigger the free spins feature?
Free spins are triggered when we land three or more Book of Ra scatter symbols anywhere on the reels in a single spin. We receive 10 free spins, along with a randomly selected special expanding symbol that can cover entire reels and increase our chances of bigger wins.
Are winnings from Book of Ra taxed in the UK?
No. When we play at UKGC-licensed online casinos, our winnings are not subject to personal income tax. The operator pays the required taxes at the source, so we receive the full amount without any deductions.
What is the RTP of Book of Ra?
For the standard Book of Ra Deluxe version, the RTP is approximately 95.10%. This is the theoretical long-term average returned to players. Other versions might differ slightly, and we can check the RTP in the game’s information section or paytable.
Does Book of Ra have a progressive jackpot?
No. Standard versions such as Book of Ra Classic and Deluxe do not offer a progressive jackpot. The highest payout comes from a full screen of the top-paying explorer symbol during free spins if it is chosen as the special expanding symbol.