The Ultimate 5 (Pragmatic Play)
Pragmatic Play
The Ultimate 5 Slot Review
Introduction
The Ultimate 5 is a High volatility video slot from Pragmatic Play with a 96.5% RTP, featuring a 5x3 layout, 20 paylines, and a maximum win of 5000 times the bet, available to play at Chips.gg.
Quick Facts
| Fact | Value |
|---|---|
| Provider | Pragmatic Play |
| Release Date | February 7, 2022 |
| RTP | 96.5% (as deployed at Chips.gg) |
| Volatility | High |
| Layout | 5 reels, 3 rows |
| Paylines | 20 |
| Max Win | 5000x bet |
| Min Bet | 0.20 |
| Max Bet | 100 |
| Hit Frequency | 33.33% |
Facts verified August 2026 against the live Chips.gg game configuration.
Game Features and Bonuses
Layout: The game utilizes a standard 5-reel, 3-row grid, offering 20 fixed paylines for winning combinations.
Special Symbols: The Baobab tree acts as the Wild symbol, substituting for most other symbols to help form wins. A giant diamond serves as the Scatter, triggering the Free Spins feature. Burning orb symbols are Money Symbols, central to the Hold Spin Super Boost feature.
Free Spins: Landing 3 or more Scatter symbols activates the Free Spins round, awarding 8, 10, or 12 free spins depending on the number of scatters. During this feature, lower-paying symbols can be randomly removed, and Wild symbols are guaranteed on level-up spins.
Hold Spin Super Boost: This re-spin bonus is triggered by landing 3 Money Symbols on reels 2, 3, and 4. Players receive 3 re-spins, with only Money Symbols or blanks appearing. Money Symbols can link and increase in value, potentially leading to jackpot prizes up to 500x the bet.
Unique Features: The game includes several fixed jackpots within the Hold Spin Super Boost feature: Mini (25x), Minor (50x), Major (75x), Maxi (100x), and Mega (500x). Filling the entire grid with linked Money Symbols upgrades them all to the Mega Jackpot.
Gameplay Mechanics and Strategies
Unique Mechanics: The Hold Spin Super Boost feature introduces a dynamic linking mechanic where adjacent Money Symbols combine and increase their value, adding a layer of strategic anticipation to the re-spins. The Free Spins round's symbol removal mechanic progressively improves winning potential by eliminating low-value symbols.
In-Game Dynamics: Wins are formed by landing three or more matching symbols on adjacent reels, starting from the leftmost reel. The game's high volatility means that wins may be less frequent but can be substantial when they occur, particularly through the bonus features.
Player Strategy: As with all slot games, no strategy can alter the inherent RTP or guarantee wins. Players should manage their bankroll according to the high volatility, adjusting bet sizes to sustain play through potential dry spells while waiting for bonus features to trigger.
Comparison with Similar Slots
The Ultimate 5 shares thematic and mechanical similarities with other African safari-themed slots. For instance, [Great Rhino Megaways](/catalog/pragmaticplay-great-rhino-megaways) (Pragmatic Play) also features an African wildlife theme and high volatility, but utilizes the Megaways engine for dynamic paylines and offers a higher maximum win potential. Another comparable title is Safari Gold Megaways (Blueprint Gaming), which combines the safari theme with the Megaways mechanic and a bonus wheel for free spins, often featuring a higher max win but also high volatility. Finally, Stampede (Betsoft) offers a similar 5x4 layout and 1024 ways to win, focusing on free spins with wild multipliers, providing a slightly different approach to the animal theme with medium-high volatility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum win available in The Ultimate 5 slot?
The maximum win players can achieve in The Ultimate 5 is 5000 times their original bet. This can be reached through the game's bonus features, particularly the Hold Spin Super Boost.
How does the Hold Spin Super Boost feature work?
This feature activates when 3 Money Symbols land on reels 2, 3, and 4. You get 3 re-spins, and landing new Money Symbols resets the count. Money Symbols can link together, increasing their values, and can award fixed jackpots.
What is the RTP of The Ultimate 5?
The Return to Player (RTP) for The Ultimate 5 is 96.5%. It is important to note that some casinos may offer different RTP configurations for this game, so the deployed build at Chips.gg is set at 96.5%.
Are there any Free Spins in The Ultimate 5?
Yes, the Free Spins feature is triggered by landing 3 or more Scatter symbols. During these spins, lower-paying symbols are progressively removed, and Wild symbols are guaranteed on certain spins, enhancing winning opportunities.
Can I play The Ultimate 5 on my mobile device?
Yes, The Ultimate 5 is designed to be fully compatible across various devices, including desktops, mobile phones, and tablets, allowing for flexible gameplay.
Conclusion
The Ultimate 5 offers a visually appealing African safari experience with a solid set of features. Its high volatility and 96.5% RTP provide a balanced risk-reward profile for players seeking significant wins. The Hold Spin Super Boost, with its linking Money Symbols and fixed jackpots, adds an engaging layer of excitement, while the Free Spins round's symbol removal mechanic can lead to more potent winning combinations. While the theme is common, the execution and bonus mechanics make it a noteworthy entry in the genre. This slot is best suited for players who appreciate high volatility gameplay and engaging bonus rounds with the potential for substantial payouts.
