The Legend of Shangri-La: Cluster Pays is an enchanting online slot developed by NetEnt, released in 2017. The game transports players to a mystical, serene world inspired by the fictional paradise of Shangri-La, a utopian land of eternal happiness and peace.
This theme draws from the novel "Lost Horizon" by James Hilton, where Shangri-La is depicted as an idyllic place hidden in the Himalayas. NetEnt's interpretation is rich with Eastern spirituality, lush landscapes, and tranquil visuals, making it one of the more visually appealing slots in their catalog.
The game features a 6x5 grid layout, where wins are achieved not through traditional paylines but through clusters of matching symbols. To form a winning combination, you need to land at least nine identical symbols in a cluster, either horizontally or vertically adjacent.
The Legend of Shangri-La is part of NetEnt’s Cluster Pays series, where the focus is on grouping symbols rather than aligning them on fixed paylines. The betting range is quite flexible, catering to a broad spectrum of players with a minimum bet of $0.10 and a maximum of $200 per spin.
The gameplay of The Legend of Shangri-La is engaging and filled with special features that keep the experience fresh and dynamic. The game is centered around the cluster pay mechanic, where forming clusters of identical symbols is the key to winning.
One of the most appealing aspects of the gameplay is the substitution symbol, represented by a question mark. This symbol can randomly replace adjacent symbols to help form or enlarge winning clusters. Additionally, when two non-winning clusters of the same symbol appear, there’s a chance they will be nudged into place to create a winning combination. This feature, known as the "Nudge Reel" feature, ensures that even near misses can turn into rewarding experiences.
The Free Spins feature is another highlight, triggered by landing three or more free spin symbols anywhere on the reels. During this round, the chances of forming large clusters are significantly enhanced, making it possible to score big wins.
The symbols in The Legend of Shangri-La are beautifully designed, each contributing to the game's tranquil and mystical atmosphere. Here’s a list of the key symbols you’ll encounter:
The Legend of Shangri-La is rich in bonus features that significantly enhance the gameplay experience. Here’s a list of the main bonus features:
The special features in The Legend of Shangri-La add depth to the gameplay, making each spin potentially rewarding and keeping the action lively:
The Legend of Shangri-La has a Return to Player (RTP) rate of 96.59%, which is fairly standard for online slots. This RTP suggests a balanced return over time, making the game fair and attractive for long-term play.
The volatility of the game is medium, which means that players can expect a mix of frequent smaller wins with occasional larger payouts. This balanced volatility makes it a suitable choice for a wide range of players, from those who enjoy consistent gameplay to those looking for bigger thrills.
NetEnt has outdone itself with the graphics and sound design in The Legend of Shangri-La. The visuals are stunning, with a serene and mystical atmosphere that perfectly captures the essence of a hidden paradise. The background features lush landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and peaceful temples, all rendered in vibrant colors that draw players into the game’s world. The symbols are intricately designed, with the Guru characters particularly standing out due to their detailed and animated appearances.
The sound design complements the visuals perfectly, with a calming soundtrack that features soft melodies and nature sounds. This audio backdrop enhances the game’s tranquil atmosphere, making each spin a soothing experience. The sound effects are subtle but effective, adding to the overall immersive quality of the game.
The Legend of Shangri-La: Cluster Pays by NetEnt is a beautifully crafted slot that offers an engaging and serene gaming experience. Its unique cluster pay mechanic, combined with a host of special features like Free Spins, Random Substitutions, and Sticky Re-Spins, ensures that players are constantly entertained.
The stunning graphics and soothing sound design create a calming atmosphere that’s a pleasure to play in, making The Legend of Shangri-La a must-try for anyone looking for a slot that combines beauty, serenity, and excitement in equal measure.
