Starburst Slot Machine Review with Free Play

Starburst, developed by NetEnt, is one of the most iconic and popular online slot games ever created. Its vibrant graphics, straightforward gameplay mechanics, and frequent payouts make it a staple in many online casinos.

This review covers all aspects of the Starburst online slot, from design and features to bonuses and RTP, offering a comprehensive overview of why many casino gamblers consider this a favorite slot.

FeatureDetails
DeveloperNetEnt
Release Date2012
Reels5
Rows3
Paylines10 (Both ways)
RTP96.1%
VolatilityLow to Medium
Minimum Bet$0.10
Maximum Bet$100
Maximum Win500x your stake (max 50.000 coins)
Mobile CompatibilityYes (iOS & Android)
Special FeaturesExpanding Wilds, Re-Spins

Where to Play Starburst in the US

Starburst is available at most licensed online casinos in the US. These casinos offer secure gaming environments, attractive bonuses, and a variety of other popular slots, making them excellent choices for enjoying Starburst and other games.

You can use the Starburst free-play demo version above for free before deciding whether to register for a real-money account at an online casino.

CasinoFirst Deposit Bonus OfferPromo Code
BetMGM Casino
$25 Freeplay®️ and 100% up to $1000 Deposit BonusSQORESPINS
 Borgata Casino
$20 Freeplay®️ + 100% up to $1000 Deposit BonusSPIXPLAY
 Caesars Palace Casino
$10 sign-up & 100% up to $2,500 deposit bonus + 2500 Reward Credits®CASMIXLAUNCH
 Bet365 Casino

100% up to $1,000 Deposit Bonus

 

21+. GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER. Must be present in NJ or PA. Void where prohibited. New Customers only. Min $10 in lifetime deposits required. Max. prize, game restrictions, time limits and T&Cs apply. The bonus code TALK1000 can be used during registration but does not change the offer amount in any way.
TALK1000

21+ Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ, PA, WV), or 1-800-270-7117 for confidential help (MI). 

How to play Starburst

Playing Starburst is straightforward, thanks to its user-friendly interface and simple gameplay mechanics. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:

1 Choose a legal and licensed Online Casino

First, select one of the casinos listed above.

2 Create an Account and Deposit Funds

Provide the necessary personal information and verify your account. Once your account is set up, deposit funds using a preferred payment method such as credit/debit cards, e-wallets, or bank transfers.

3 Find Starburst in the Game Library

Navigate to the casino’s game library and search for Starburst. You can typically find it under the “Slots” section. Click on the Starburst icon to launch the game.

4 Understand the Symbols and Payouts

Once you’ve set your bet, click the “Spin” button to start the game. You can also use the “Max Bet” button to set the highest possible bet and spin the reels automatically.

5 Set Your Bet

Before you start spinning, set your bet amount. Starburst offers a flexible betting range, accommodating both low and high rollers. Use the following options to adjust your bet:

  • Coin Value: Adjust the value of each coin. The range typically starts from $0.01 up to $1.
  • Level: Choose the bet level, which multiplies your coin value. The levels usually range from 1 to 10.
  • Bet Lines: Starburst has 10 fixed paylines that pay both ways (left to right and right to left).

Your total bet is calculated by multiplying the coin value by the bet level and the number of paylines.

6 Start Spinning

Once you’ve set your bet, click the “Spin” button to start the game. You can also use the “Max Bet” button to set the highest possible bet and spin the reels automatically.

Starburst Game Features, RTP & Paytable

Reels and Paylines

Starburst features a 5-reel, 3-row layout with 10 pay lines. One of the game's unique aspects is its both-ways pay mechanic, which allows winning combinations to be formed from left to right and right to left, effectively doubling the chances of hitting a win.

Betting Range: Starburst accommodates low and high rollers with a flexible betting range. Players can wager as little as $0.10 or as much as $100 per spin, making it accessible to all types of players.

Max Win: The maximum win on a single spin in Starburst is 500 times your stake. While this is not as high as other slots, the frequent payouts and re-spin feature keep the game exciting and rewarding.

Symbols

The symbols in Starburst include various colorful gems (purple, blue, orange, green, and yellow), a golden BAR symbol, and the lucky number 7. The BAR is the highest-paying symbol, followed by the 7.

Wilds and Expanding Wilds

The game's highlight is the Starburst Wild symbol. It appears on reels 2, 3, and 4, and when it does, it expands to cover the entire reel and triggers a re-spin. This feature can result in consecutive wins and significantly boost your payouts.

Symbol3 Symbols4 Symbols5 Symbols
BAR50 coins200 coins250 coins
725 coins60 coins120 coins
Yellow Gem10 coins25 coins60 coins
Green Gem8 coins20 coins50 coins
Orange Gem7 coins15 coins40 coins
Blue Gem5 coins10 coins25 coins
Purple Gem5 coins10 coins25 coins

Bonus Features

Starburst is known for its simplicity and does not include traditional bonus rounds or free spins. However, the expanding wilds and re-spins feature effectively serve as a bonus, offering players ample opportunities for significant wins without complicated mechanics.

Return to Player (RTP) and Volatility

RTP: Starburst has an RTP of 96.1%, which aligns with the industry standard for online slots. This means that, on average, players can expect to get back $96.10 for every $100 wagered over the long term.

Volatility: Starburst is a low to medium volatility slot. It offers frequent, smaller wins rather than rare, big payouts. This volatility level is ideal for casual players who enjoy consistent winnings and a steady bankroll.

Comparisons with Other Popular Slots

RTP comparison popular slots

Starburst's unique features and appeal are evident when compared to other popular slots. For instance, Gonzo’s Quest by NetEnt offers a medium volatility experience with a 96% RTP and a unique avalanche feature, where symbols fall into place rather than spinning. This feature provides a different type of excitement and potential for larger wins with its cascading reels.

Similarly, Book of Dead by Play’n GO is a high volatility slot with a 96.21% RTP. It features expanding symbols during free spins and offers larger but less frequent payouts than Starburst. This makes it more suitable for players looking for high-risk, high-reward scenarios.

Immortal Romance by Microgaming, with an RTP of 96.86%, offers a medium volatility experience with a rich narrative and multiple bonus features, including wild desires and a chamber of spins. The game's complexity and immersive storyline provide a contrasting experience to Starburst's straightforward, fast-paced action.

Mega Moolah, another Microgaming slot, is renowned for its progressive jackpots and has an RTP of 88.12%. It offers the potential for life-changing wins but is less frequent with smaller regular payouts, making it a high-risk option for players.

Slot GameVolatility LevelRTP
StarburstLow to Medium96.1%
Gonzo’s QuestMedium96%
Book of DeadHigh96.21%
Immortal RomanceMedium96.86%
Mega MoolahHigh88.12%

Game Design & Theme

Starburst Slot Machine NetEnt

Graphics and Visuals

Starburst boasts dazzling and vibrant graphics that are synonymous with its name. The game features a captivating space theme with bright, sparkling gems as symbols. The background depicts a mesmerizing galaxy filled with swirling lights and stars, creating an immersive and visually stunning experience.

Sound and Music

Starburst's soundtrack is soothing and perfectly complements the gameplay. The sound effects, especially when hitting a winning combination, are satisfying and enhance the excitement of the game.

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