Book of Ra

Book of Ra by Greentube (part of Novomatic) is the original Egyptian “book” slot that inspired an entire sub-genre. Following an explorer into the tombs, it combines a classic layout with free spins and a special expanding symbol that can pay across whole reels. A long-standing land-based and online favourite, it retains steady search demand in the US and across Europe.

This review explains how Book of Ra works, the expanding-symbol free spins, the RTP and volatility, and how to play it responsibly.

What is Book of Ra?

Book of Ra is a 5-reel slot (with 9 or 10 paylines depending on the version, including a popular Deluxe edition). The book is both wild and scatter: landing three or more triggers 10 free spins and reveals a randomly chosen special expanding symbol. During the free spins, if that symbol appears it expands to fill its reel and pays across positions, which can produce very large wins.

As the slot that defined the “book” formula later popularised by titles like Book of Dead, Book of Ra carries genuine heritage. Its straightforward design and the drama of the expanding symbol give it lasting appeal among traditional slot fans.

How to play Book of Ra

1. Set your stake and choose the number of active paylines.
2. Spin the 5 reels for base-game wins, with the book as wild and scatter.
3. Land three or more books to trigger 10 free spins.
4. A random special expanding symbol is selected for the round.
5. During free spins, that symbol expands across its reel for potentially big wins.

Book of Ra RTP, volatility and max win

Book of Ra’s RTP varies by version, with the classic typically around 92%–95% and the Deluxe version higher at roughly 94.26%–95.10% — check the figure shown in your specific version, as it is generally lower than many modern slots. It is a high-volatility game, so expect less frequent but larger wins.

The maximum win can reach up to around 5,000x your stake when the expanding symbol fills the reels during free spins. An optional gamble feature lets you risk wins on a card-colour guess to double them, adding further variance.

Expanding symbol free spins and gamble

The defining feature is the randomly selected expanding symbol in the free spins, which spreads across its reel and pays across positions for the game’s biggest wins. The book’s dual wild-and-scatter role and an optional double-or-nothing gamble feature complete a lean, high-impact design.

Book of Ra strategy and tips

• Check the RTP of your version — Book of Ra runs lower than many modern slots.
• Expect high variance and budget for dry spells.
• Use the gamble feature sparingly, as it adds risk.
• Set win and loss limits and respect them.
• Try the demo to learn the expanding-symbol mechanic.

Book of Ra pros and cons

Why Book of Ra is popular across English-speaking markets

Book of Ra is a foundational slot with a devoted following in the United States and across Europe, and continues to attract steady search interest. As the title that launched the “book” sub-genre, its heritage, simple design and the drama of the expanding symbol give it enduring appeal among traditional slot players.

Where to play Book of Ra safely

Always play Book of Ra at a casino licensed by a recognised regulator that displays the in-game RTP and offers the official Greentube (Novomatic) version rather than an unbranded clone. Look for transparent terms, fast withdrawals and built-in responsible-gambling tools such as deposit limits and self-exclusion. Our team only recommends operators that meet these standards.

Frequently asked questions

What is the RTP of Book of Ra?

It depends on the version: the classic is roughly 92%-95% and the Deluxe version around 94.26%-95.10%. Always check the in-game figure.

What is the maximum win in Book of Ra?

Up to around 5,000x your stake, primarily through the expanding symbol in the free spins.

Can I play Book of Ra for free?

Yes, many licensed casinos offer a demo with virtual credits.

How does the expanding symbol work?

A random special symbol is chosen at the start of free spins; when it lands it expands across its reel and pays across positions.

Is there a winning Book of Ra strategy?

No. Outcomes are random; checking the RTP version and managing your bankroll improve your experience only.

18+ only. Gambling should be entertainment, never a way to make money. Only stake what you can afford to lose, set deposit and time limits, and never chase losses. If gambling stops being fun, take a break or seek support via BeGambleAware.org or your local responsible-gambling service.