Just like the original Wild Gambler, the main selling point of Arctic Adventure is the Locked Wild feature. Whenever the Polar Bear wild lands, you will be given the option to lock it in place - you can also add a multiplier if you so desire. This added extra isn't free of course and the cost depends on the precise position of the wild. If a wild lands underneath a locked wild, the locked wild multiplier will increase by 1, up to a maximum of 5x.
One new addition for Wild Gambler Arctic Adventure is the Play Your Way feature which enables you to click on any symbol to create a locked wild - you can also add a multiplier to wild wins, up to a maximum of 5x. Opting for the maximum will of course increase how much you pay on each spin. Keep track in the cashier in the right hand corner of the reels.
There is also a Free Spins feature on offer - land 3 silver coin scatters for 7 free spins, 4 for 12 free spins and 5 for 20. Any locked wilds on the triggering spin will be held throughout the feature. Likewise, if any wilds land during the feature they will be frozen for the spins that follow. Multipliers will also be held.
Just like the original, Wild Gambler Arctic Adventure is a visual delight - set against a snowy, polar backdrop, symbols on the reels include cartoon moose, penguins, walrus and of course the wild polar bear. They're joined by ice cube shaped playing card symbols from A to 10.
The variance depends largely on how you choose to play the locked wilds - they take a little getting used to so a few spins in play mode are recommended before you decide to jump into the real money game.
If you like a bit of interactivity in a slot, then Wild Gambler Arctic Adventure certainly ticks that box. It's very nicely designed and the free spins round is a good one courtesy of the frozen wilds. We enjoyed Wild Gambler's first outing in Africa - if it ain't broke, don't fix it so the saying goes.
Ash Gaming have left the gameplay largely intact and just changed the theme. If you were charmed by the original animal-themed offering, you'll find plenty to enjoy in the sequel. If you like the snowy feeling, Net Entertainment’s Lucky Angler slot is highly recommended.