Microgaming Thunderstruck series of online slot games are unquestionably two of the most popular online slots ever invented. The sheer number of gamers that have played either or both of the Thunderstruck slots is unimaginable, as is the number of wins these two slots have provided players over the years.The Thunderstruck series from Microgaming has cemented its place as one of the most iconic slot game franchises in the online casino world.
History Of The Thunderstruck Slots
The original Thunderstruck slot was launched in 2004, quickly gaining popularity for its engaging gameplay and Norse mythology theme centred around Thor, the god of thunder. Even today, two decades later, it remains a favourite among players, thanks to its straightforward mechanics and the thrill of potentially big wins.However, the sequel, Thunderstruck II, released in May 2010, truly took things to the next level. With enhanced graphics, a richer storyline, and many features like the Great Hall of Spins, this game has consistently been one of the most played online slots.The sequel introduced a more complex gameplay experience with 243 ways to win and four free spin modes linked to Norse gods like Odin, Loki, and Thor.In 2021, Microgaming expanded the franchise with Thunderstruck Wild Lightning, adding even more excitement with features like the Link and Win and the Multiplier Wilds. This latest instalment keeps the spirit of the original games alive while offering modern enhancements like jackpots that can pay up to 15,000 times your stake.The combination of these three games has helped maintain the Thunderstruck series’ status as a must-play in the online gaming community. Each iteration offers something fresh while staying true to the legendary Norse themes that made the original so popular.
What Are The Main Differences?
The Thunderstruck series by Microgaming, particularly Thunderstruck and Thunderstruck II, stands out as one of the most iconic online slots. Still, these two games differ significantly in several key areas.
Design
When it comes to visuals, the original Thunderstruck, which came out in 2004, definitely shows its age. The graphics are pretty basic, with flat 2D symbols and a straightforward design that was typical of early 2000s slots. It’s simple and to the point, but nothing that’ll blow your mind today.On the flip side, Thunderstruck II, released in 2010, takes things up several notches. The sequel brings in high-definition graphics, cool 3D elements, and way more detailed animations. The whole design is darker and more intense, really pulling you into that epic Norse mythology vibe. It’s a much richer visual experience that makes the game feel more alive and engaging.
Gameplay
The gameplay in Thunderstruck and Thunderstruck II is pretty different. The original Thunderstruck sticks to a classic setup with 5 reels and 9 paylines. Its big draw is a free spins round where all your wins get tripled, and Thor acts as the wild symbol, doubling your payouts when he helps complete a winning combo.Thunderstruck II mixes things up quite a bit. It ditches the old paylines for 243 ways to win, making the game feel much more dynamic. One of the best features is the Great Hall of Spins, where you can unlock four free spin modes, each tied to a different Norse god like Odin or Loki. Each mode comes with its own perks, like multipliers, wild transformations, and rolling reels. Plus, the Wildstorm feature can turn all five reels wild at random, giving you a shot at some huge wins.
Features
Thunderstruck II blows the original out of the water when it comes to special features and potential payouts. While Thunderstruck gives you a solid, straightforward slot experience with decent max wins, Thunderstruck II cranks up the excitement with way more bonus features and a much higher chance of hitting it big.The Wildstorm feature can turn all five reels wild, and the multi-level Great Hall of Spins keeps things fresh and engaging, making the gameplay far more exciting and rewarding.
Betting Range
Wagering in Thunderstruck and Thunderstruck II is super flexible, so it works for all players.With Thunderstruck, the betting options are pretty simple. You can bet small, which is great if you’re just looking to play without putting too much on the line. You can tweak the coin size and the number of coins per line, with minimum bets starting low, making it easy for casual players to jump in and have some fun.Thunderstruck II moves things up with more flexible wagering options to match its more advanced gameplay. Instead of traditional paylines, it offers 243 ways to win, which changes how you set your bets. You can still adjust your bet size by playing around with the coin value and the number of coins per spin. The minimum bet stays pretty low, but if you’re feeling lucky or aiming for bigger wins, especially with features like the Great Hall of Spins, you can increase your bet accordingly.Thunderstruck II is great for everyone, from low-stakes players to those who like to bet big, thanks to its wider range of wagering options.
RTP And Volatility
There’s a noticeable difference between Thunderstruck and Thunderstruck II when it comes to RTP (Return to Player) and volatility.Thunderstruck has an RTP of 96.10%, which is pretty standard for an online slot, offering a balanced mix of wins. The game’s volatility is medium, meaning you can expect a mix of smaller, more frequent wins with the occasional bigger payout. This makes it a solid choice for players who like a steady gameplay experience without too much risk.Thunderstruck II, on the other hand, also offers an RTP of about 96.65%, slightly higher than its predecessor. The game is known for its medium to high volatility. This means while you might not win as often as in the original, when you do win, it can be significantly bigger, especially with features like the Great Hall of Spins and Wildstorm that can lead to massive payouts.If you’re looking for a game with bigger win potential and don’t mind the higher risk, I would say that Thunderstruck II is the way to go. If you prefer a more consistent payout with a steady flow of smaller wins, Thunderstruck might be more your style.
Which Thunderstruck Slot Is The Player’s Favourite?
Currently, Thunderstruck II is still the go-to game in the Thunderstruck series.It’s the one that players keep coming back to because it’s packed with more features and offers bigger win potential than the original. The Great Hall of Spins and Wildstorm features are huge draws, making the gameplay super exciting and giving players a shot at some massive payouts.Even though the original Thunderstruck and Thunderstruck Wild Lightning have their fans, Thunderstruck II is the clear favourite for most players. You can find the whole series of Thunderstruck games at many new slot sites and bigger casinos.