Dead or Alive Slot Review 2023

They didn’t know it back then, but the future had big things in store for the Dead or Alive slot game. Released back in 2009, it’s one of NetEnt’s pioneers. It only takes one look at the slot to actually realise that though, Dead or Alive is not the most innovative of slots. It’s still one of the most popular slots played online. So much so that NetEnt eventually released a sequel, Dead or Alive II. They must have done something right way back then. We’re here to find out more in this Dead or Alive slot review.

When it came to Dead or Alive slot, NetEnt stuck to the standards of the time. This is what you might be thinking. What you have to realise is that this was one of the provider’s first-ever video slots. So technically, everything about it is unique and it actually set the industry standards. Other ‘shoot-em-up’ slots that followed like ‘The Reel Steel’, was the spin-offs.

For what it’s worth, the Dead or Alive slot machine is made up of 5 reels, 3 rows and 9 paylines. It’s a matrix that players can relate to. The betting range is also quite flexible, capped at anywhere between $/€/£0.01 and $/€/£18. Combine that with the ability to choose between coin values of 0.01 and 0.50 and well as 4 betting levels. You can start to get an idea of why the slot is so player-friendly. Needless to say, that autoplay is also an option. It may be something slot players take for granted nowadays but back then it wasn’t as widespread. It’s actually surprisingly advanced and can be set to a maximum of 1,000 spins. Further proof that the Dead or Alive slot machine set the standards for other video slots.

Dead or Alive RTP

The slot was released at a time when industry standards were still being formed. NetEnt could have come in at any value when it came to Dead or Alive slot RTP. Luckily for players, they chose to keep things user-friendly with a return to player value of 96.82%. This set the bar and even nowadays is considered on par with the rest of slots online. In fact, the software provider wasn’t as generous with other popular slots like Gonzo’s Quest, in the years that followed.

It’s a Wild Western themed slot, NetEnt has done more than enough to make that apparent. You’ll also have to remember that it’s one of the first. Of course, the graphics aren’t going to live up to the animated video slots of today. If looks are an automatic deal-breaker for you, then we suggest heading over to a more recent slot like Wild Wild West.

Then again there’s something rather pleasing about a classic like Dead or Alive slot. Its overall retro look gives it a fruit machine feel. Perfect for those brick and mortar casino lovers. The symbols have been perfectly aligned to the theme too. Expect anything from cowboy boots to sheriff badges to actual Wanted posters. It sets the scene decently enough. Of course, if you’ve ever played Dead or Alive 2 slot then you’ll notice the difference.

Again, the sound has been kept quite basic. If you are used to playing newer titles, then you’re in for a bit of a let-down. For starters, there’s a lot of quiet moments throughout the game. When we did spin the reels, some basic sound effects kicked in. At times we were almost half expecting the melody to break into The Good, The Bad and the Ugly soundtrack. As you can probably imagine, we were grievously disappointed. The audio is however still in line with the Dead or Alive slot machine’s main theme though. That’s more than we can say for other renowned classics such as Novomatic’s Book of Ra.

With the audio graphics being so rudimentary, we were almost left wondering what all the hype is about when it comes to Dead or Alive. It didn’t take long to realise that it is actually the in-game features. Being a classic slot has its perks after all. Players can relate to them, making them extremely user-friendly. There’s just something about the simplicity of slots like this that keep people coming back for more. Of course, NetEnt has made sure to include enough bonuses to maximise winning opportunities. Scatters, Wilds, Free Spins, Dead or Alive has them all as we are about to find out.

Dead or Alive Free Spins

Perhaps a key selling point for Dead or Alive slot is the games overall approach to free spins. Now we aren’t talking about casino bonuses here. It’s true that there have been many Dead or Alive slot bonuses over time but we’re actually referring to the game. If you happen to pick up a casino bonus along the way through, then, by all means, take it. Back to the game for now though.

The Scatter symbol is represented by 2 pistols. Hit at least 3 of these and you’ll be instantly rewarded with 12 free spins. Moreover, during free spins rounds, an x2 multiplier comes into effect. It’s a good deal but nothing out of the ordinary. Luckily there’s more and it’s something that you won’t find many slots doing. Dead or Alive free spins can be re-triggered once giving you the opportunity to win a further 12. Clearly that’s a valid selling point!

Dead or Alive Sticky Wilds

The Wild symbol is represented by the Wanted poster. As you can probably imagine, it substitutes for all other symbols on the reel except the scatter. Nothing we haven’t seen before. There’s a twist though and it goes by the name Sticky Wild. As the name suggests, these wilds will stick to their positions as you spin the reels. This feature can only be activated during free spins round. If you do manage to land a Sticky Wild though, you’ll also be rewarded with a further 5 extra free spins. Add in that x2 multiplier and the re-trigger opportunity; you can do the math!

There’s just something about a classic slot that never ceases to intrigue. At least if it’s done well that is. This Dead or Alive slot review isn’t the first time we have seen it. It may not be a match for the HD technology of today but sometimes simplicity can be a good thing. If you’re playing slots perhaps, you’re looking to switch off for a while or simply relax. You won’t need to read through a long set of complex rules with the Dead or Alive slot machine. And if it does start to feel a little dated, then there’s always Dead or Alive 2 to turn to! 

Dead or Alive Slot FAQs