- A volatile game with a huge win potential
- Lots of ways to win and a global multiplier
- Better in every way apart from one
Carnival Queen 2 by Thunderkick is a high-volatility slot that builds upon the original 2019 release with a few changes and new features. Played on a 6-reel layout with up to 7 symbols per reel, it starts with 5,040 ways to win, but this can increase to 117,649 ways via exploding wilds. The game keeps the popular avalanche mechanic and increasing multiplier, while adding wild explosions, bonus buys, and Bet+ enhancements. The slot carries a max win of 25,000x the stake. However, its RTP is capped at 94.18%, which is notably lower than its predecessor.
RECOMMENDED CASINOS TO PLAY Carnival Queen 2 Slot
Carnival Queen 2 Slot Bonuses and Features
Exploding Wild Symbol. Wilds substitute for all symbols except scatters and always trigger explosions. They destroy all symbols on their own reel and one random symbol on each other reel, unless blocked. After exploding, the affected reel increases its height by +1, up to 7 symbols high, expanding the win ways. A maximum of 2 wilds may land at a time.
Instant Multiplier. Each avalanche (cascade) increases the global multiplier by +1, starting from x1. It resets after a losing spin in the base game but persists during free spins, with no upper cap.
Bonus Game (Free Spins). Triggered by 3 or more scatter symbols, awarding, 12 free spins for 3 scatters. You also get +4 spins for each extra scatter beyond the third. During free spins, the current multiplier from the triggering spin carries over and does not reset. 2 scatters during the round award +3 spins, with +2 spins for each additional scatter.
Bet+ and Feature Buy Options. The Bet+ menu offers several enhancements:
- Bonus Boost (1.5x): 2x more likely to trigger bonus
- Bonus Boost Plus (3x): 5x more likely
- Bonus Boost Extreme (10x): Guarantees bonus once every 10 spins (on average)
- Firework Frenzy (5x): Guarantees one exploding wild on the first drop
- 100x the stake: Triggers the free spins normally
- 175x the stake: Triggers free spins with at least 10,000 ways to win
Conclusion
Carnival Queen 2 slot from Thunderkick successfully updates the original formula with variable reel heights, expanding ways to win, and a more interactive base game. The addition of exploding wilds and Bet+ options gives players more control over volatility and excitement. However, the lower RTP (94.18%) is a big downside, especially compared to the original. Despite offering a 25,000x max win, its achievability remains in question, much like its predecessor. While not a groundbreaking leap forward, Carnival Queen 2 offers a solid sequel, it’s just a shame that the RTP has taken a beating. If you want to check out other slots from this developer, why no read our review of Milk the Cow slot here.
A Great Slot But Low RTP
Pros
- Huge win potential.
- Global multipliers.
Cons
- Low RTP.