Dark King: Forbidden Riches
- RTP
- 91.93%
- Volatility
- MEDIUM HIGH
- Max win
- 2,000×
- Hit freq
- -
- Grid
- -
- Bet
- -
- Released
- 2020-01-01
A playable demo is not available in your region.
Our take
Medium-high volatility gothic slot with 2,000× cap, sticky wilds, and re-spins in a Dark-Souls–inspired medieval setting.
NetEnt's Dark King: Forbidden Riches immerses players in a Dark-Souls–esque gothic fantasy via cinematic animation and a full orchestral soundtrack. The 5×3, 20-payline grid with medium-high volatility and 91.93% RTP eschews modern mechanics (ways, cluster pays) in favour of sticky wilds and re-spins. Max-win potential reaches 2,000×, achievable primarily through free-spins rounds where sticky wilds lock in place and respins extend the feature.
The visual and audio presentation is Dark King's calling card. Eerie background music swells as the reels turn; winning animations trigger cinematic flourishes. The dark-blue crystal-ball wild acts as both symbol and multiplier, whilst ruby shields scatter to unlock free spins. During the feature, sticky wilds persist across respins, building win totals incrementally. The fantasy theming—skulls, cursed treasures, a menacing King presiding over the action—creates genuine atmosphere.
However, atmosphere does not guarantee mechanical innovation. The 20-payline grid feels restrictive compared to contemporary 40-payline, ways-based, or cluster-pay alternatives. The 91.93% RTP edges toward the lower end of fair compensation, especially given the production investment. Re-spin frequency is undisclosed, creating uncertainty about bonus accessibility. Players prioritising immersive design and classical bonus mechanics will find value; those chasing cutting-edge pay structures may feel underwhelmed by the static grid and modest win cap.
Pros
- Cinematic animations and orchestral soundtrack create immersive atmosphere
- Sticky wilds and re-spins mechanic encourages extended bonus play
- 91.93% RTP is competitive within the medium-high volatility tier
- 2,000× max win is solid for the volatility level
- Dark visual design stands out from typical fantasy-slot aesthetics
Cons
- 20 paylines feel restrictive compared to modern mechanics (ways, cluster pays)
- 5×3 layout is dated relative to larger contemporary grids
- 91.93% RTP is slightly lower than many competitor titles
- Bonus frequency is undisclosed; re-spins may feel infrequent
- Premium production may not justify payouts for some players
Math & maxes
Math breakdown
- Volatility score
- 3 / 5
- Max win
- 2,000x the stake
FAQ
What features does Dark King have?
Sticky wilds, re-spins, free spins, and multiplier symbols across a 20-payline grid.
How much can I win?
The max win is 2,000× your stake, primarily achieved during free spins with sticky wilds.
Is it volatile?
Medium-high volatility. Expect occasional dry spells with bigger payouts during bonus rounds.
What's the RTP?
91.93%, which is solid but slightly below industry average.
