Short definition
A slot symbol that pays or triggers a feature regardless of whether it lands on a payline.
A scatter symbol differs from regular symbols: it doesn’t need to be on a payline to take effect. A certain number of scatter symbols anywhere on the reels is enough.
A scatter usually triggers free spins or a bonus game and can also give a direct payout. It’s one of the most important symbols for big wins.
How a scatter pays
A scatter payout is generally based on the number of symbols across the whole reel area, not on their position. An illustrative paytable (not data of a specific game): 3 scatters = 2× bet, 4 = 10×, 5 = 50×. With a total bet of 1 €, three scatters pay 2 €, four pay 10 € and five pay 50 €. In many games the scatter payout is based on the total bet, not on the stake of a single payline, and it is usually added to line wins. The exact table is always in the game's info menu.
The most common job of a scatter is to trigger free spins or a bonus game. More scatters often means more spins, for example 3 = 10 spins, 4 = 15, 5 = 20. Some games let you collect scatters again during the spins and extend them (retrigger).
What the game does not tell you
- Two scatters on the reels do not mean a third is coming. Every spin is independent, and a "near miss" is simply one outcome among others.
- A wild usually does not substitute for a scatter, so having a wild does not help you trigger the bonus.
- The bonus buy feature lets you skip the scatters and buy the feature directly. The price is a large multiple of the bet, and in some markets it is restricted, so read the terms.
- The value of free spins depends on the game; the free spins value calculator helps you estimate it.
Scatter-based bonus games are the reason slots can pay little for a long time and then a lot at once, which is why RTP matters too. Slot casinos with crypto payments are covered on our sister site: kryptokasiinod.ee slot casinos. Source: Wikipedia: Slot machine. If playing starts to feel like pressure, see 15410.ee.
Related terms
See also: slots, wild symbol, free spins.
“Example: three scatter symbols anywhere on the reels trigger a free-spins round — position on a payline doesn’t matter.
1. Free position
A scatter takes effect even if it’s not on a payline.
2. Triggers a feature
A certain number of scatters opens free spins or a bonus game.
3. Can pay directly
In some games a scatter also gives a separate payout.
4. Different from a wild
A wild doesn’t substitute for a scatter, and they play different roles.
Doesn’t have to be on a linePosition
Free spins, a bonus gameTriggers
Usually 3+Number required
How many scatters are needed for the feature?
Often three or more, but the exact number depends on the game. Check the game’s paytable.
Are a scatter and a wild the same thing?
No. A wild substitutes for symbols on a line, while a scatter triggers features regardless of position. A wild doesn’t substitute for a scatter.
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