He wowed slot players with a whole new way to spin and win in 2017. Now the most charming leprechaun in casino gaming history is back for a new adventure in Finn’s Golden Tavern. The big question is: does Finn’s sequel slot game live up to the original? Read on to find out what we think now we’ve had the chance to play Finn’s Golden Tavern for ourselves.
The Original Finn and the Swirly Spin
Designed by NetEnt, the original Finn and the Swirly Spin was nothing like any Irish luck-themed slot game we’d seen before. Rather than just relying on Irish clichés, it introduced a totally unique leprechaun character. With his Pixar film-worthy appearance and tip-top tap-dancing skills, Finn quickly won the hearts of players around the world.
What’s more, Finn and the Swirly Spin wasn’t just about charm and appearances. From Dragon Destroys to Magical Transforms, it boasted bonuses by the bucketload. And then there’s the feature that really got us excited: The Swirly Spin Mechanic.
Instead of symbols simply landing on the reels as you played (like in an ordinary slot), the Swirly Spin Mechanic made them fall in a unique spiral formation. Successful symbols were then destroyed after every win, pushing new symbols further around the spiral. This made it possible to discover new winning combinations again and again and again, without having to pay for another spin.
About Finn’s Golden Tavern
Finn’s Golden Tavern comes almost 3 years after Finn’s slot debut. The sequel stars the same leprechaun we’ve come to know and love. However, Finn’s now left his Emerald Isle home to hunt for treasure on the other side of the world.
You’re constantly reminded that you’re on an expedition far from home. The game itself plays out in a remote tavern, with the reels laid out on a treasure map. When it comes to symbols, there are less shamrocks and rainbows, more foreign coins, chests and compasses. However, the soundtrack of lively folk music acts as a nice reminder of Finn’s Irish roots.
We like the fact that Finn’s Golden Tavern is more volatile than the original. So, whilst you may not win as frequently, you could be in for a real treat when you do get lucky. This explains the slightly lower RTP of 96.01% (compared to the 96.62% RTP in Finn and the Swirly Spin).
Bonus Features to Unlock
We’re pleased to see the revolutionary Swirly Spin Mechanic is back and as exciting as ever, along with some brand-new bonus features to help boost payouts as you play. These include:
Finn’s Fist Slams
Watch Finn slam his fist down, forcing a coin symbol to drop onto the reels and form a new winning combination.
Coins Ahoy!
Each coin symbol has a different value. Whenever you match up at least 3 coin symbols on the spiral, you win the value of all the coins added together.
Free Spins Chest
Just like in the original Finn and the Swirly Spin, you’ll find a special symbol (this time it’s a treasure chest, rather than a key) that unlocks a Free Spins Bonus when it reaches the centre of the spiral.
So, what’s the verdict?
Finn and the Swirly Spin was a tough act to follow. However, NetEnt have done well with Finn’s Golden Tavern. If you’re looking for a more volatile slot adventure, it’s certainly worth a spin. You can find it available to play now on desktop and mobile at the online casino bgo.com.
