Release the Kraken 2 (Pragmatic Play)
Pragmatic Play
Release the Kraken 2 Slot Review
Introduction
Release the Kraken 2 is a Medium volatility video slot from Pragmatic Play with a 96.03% RTP, a 5x4 layout, and 20 paylines, offering a maximum win of 5000x the bet, available to play at Chips.gg.
Quick Facts
| Fact | Value |
|---|---|
| Provider | Pragmatic Play |
| Theme | Underwater, Kraken |
| Layout | 5 Reels, 4 Rows |
| Paylines | 20 (base game) |
| RTP | 96.03% (as deployed at Chips.gg) |
| Volatility | Medium |
| Max Win | 5000x |
| Hit Frequency | 28.16% |
| Min Bet | 0.20 |
| Max Bet | 100 |
| Release Date | November 2022 |
Facts verified July 2026 against the live Chips.gg game configuration.
Game Features and Bonuses
Layout: The game is played on a 5-reel, 4-row grid, which expands to 40 paylines during the Free Spins bonus round.
Special Symbols: The red Kraken acts as the Wild symbol, substituting for other symbols except the scatter. The gold Kraken is the Scatter symbol, triggering the Free Spins feature.
Free Spins: Landing 3 or more Scatter symbols activates the Free Spins. Before the round begins, players can negotiate with the Kraken to gamble for better starting conditions, including multipliers and the number of free spins. During Free Spins, all Wild symbols become jumping wilds, moving to new positions with each spin, and golden wilds increase the total win multiplier.
Bonus Rounds: The game includes three random features in the base game: Wild Respin (triggered by 4+ wilds), Shifting Stacked Wilds (expanding wilds with increasing multipliers), and Guaranteed Win (Kraken creates a win of 20x-50x on a non-winning spin or places scatters).
Unique Features: Players can utilize an Ante Bet feature to increase their chances of triggering Free Spins or use a Bonus Buy option to directly access the Free Spins round at different costs.
Gameplay Mechanics and Strategies
Unique Mechanics: Release the Kraken 2 incorporates dynamic paylines, shifting from 20 in the base game to 40 during Free Spins, which can significantly alter winning potential in the bonus round. The "negotiation" mini-game before Free Spins adds a layer of player choice regarding bonus conditions.
In-Game Dynamics: The random base game features like Wild Respins and Shifting Stacked Wilds aim to maintain engagement and provide intermittent wins. The persistent jumping wilds and increasing multipliers in the Free Spins round are central to achieving larger payouts.
Player Strategy: While no strategy can alter the game's inherent RTP, players might consider the Ante Bet feature to increase Free Spins frequency, or the Bonus Buy option for direct access, depending on their budget and preference for bonus round action. Managing bet size relative to the medium volatility is a common approach.
Comparison with Similar Slots
Release the Kraken 2 shares thematic and mechanical elements with other underwater-themed slots. For example, "Razor Shark" by Push Gaming also features a deep-sea setting and mystery symbols that can reveal high-paying symbols or multipliers. Another comparable title is "Big Bass Bonanza" by Reel Kingdom, which offers a Free Spins round with symbol collection and increasing multipliers, though its theme is more focused on fishing. Pragmatic Play's own "Release the Kraken" (the predecessor) offered a similar theme and random features, but with a different max win potential and specific bonus mechanics.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum win potential in Release the Kraken 2?
The game offers a maximum win potential of 5000 times your bet, which can be achieved through its various features and multipliers, particularly during the Free Spins round.
How does the RTP of this game compare to other slots?
The RTP of Release the Kraken 2 at Chips.gg is 96.03%. While the default RTP for this game can be higher (96.50%), game providers often offer different configurations, so the deployed build at a specific casino may vary.
Are there any special symbols to look out for?
Yes, the red Kraken is the Wild symbol, substituting for others, and the gold Kraken is the Scatter symbol, which is key to triggering the Free Spins bonus round.
Can I buy the bonus round in this slot?
Yes, Release the Kraken 2 includes a Bonus Buy feature, allowing players to directly purchase entry into the Free Spins round at different costs depending on the desired trigger.
What is the purpose of the Ante Bet feature?
The Ante Bet feature allows players to increase their stake by 25% to improve their chances of naturally triggering the Free Spins feature during regular gameplay.
Conclusion
Release the Kraken 2 delivers an engaging underwater adventure with a solid mix of features. Its medium volatility and 96.03% RTP offer a balanced experience. The game shines with its dynamic Free Spins round, complete with jumping wilds and increasing multipliers, and the negotiation mini-game adds a unique twist. While the maximum win potential is respectable, players should be aware of the varying RTP configurations. This slot is well-suited for players who enjoy feature-rich gameplay and a strong thematic presentation.
