Release the Bison Slot Review
Introduction
Release the Bison is a high volatility video slot from Pragmatic Play with a 96.54% RTP, featuring a 5x4 layout and 20 paylines, offering a maximum win of 3,000x the bet, and is available to play at Chips.gg. This game transports players to the American West, where the majestic bison roams across the reels, acting as a Wild symbol and central to the game's features.
Quick Facts
| Fact | Value |
|---|---|
| Provider | Pragmatic Play |
| Title | Release the Bison |
| Reels | 5 |
| Rows | 4 |
| Paylines | 20 |
| RTP | 96.54% (as deployed at Chips.gg) |
| Volatility | High |
| Max Win | 3,000x |
| Hit Frequency | 28.99% |
| Min Bet | 0.2 |
| Max Bet | 300 |
| Release Date | April 2024 |
Facts verified July 2026 against the live Chips.gg game configuration.
Game Features and Bonuses
Layout: The game is set on a 5-reel, 4-row grid, providing 20 fixed paylines for winning combinations.
Special Symbols: The Wild Symbol is represented by the bison, substituting for all regular paying symbols to help form wins. It is also the highest paying symbol.
Free Spins: Triggered by landing 3 or more Scatter symbols. Before the round, a wheel determines a combination of free spins (up to 18) and a multiplier (up to 5x). During Free Spins, Wilds become roaming, shifting positions with each spin.
Wild Respin Feature: If 4 or more Wild symbols land in the base game, a respin mode activates. Wilds move to random positions, and new Wilds award additional respins and increase a win multiplier.
Guaranteed Win: Occasionally, a non-winning base game spin can automatically transform into a winning configuration, awarding a payout between 10x and 40x the bet.
Ante Bet: Players can increase their bet by 25% to boost the chances of triggering the Free Spins feature.
Bonus Buy: The Free Spins round can be instantly purchased for 80x, 150x, or 300x the bet, depending on the desired number of triggering Scatter symbols.
Gameplay Mechanics and Strategies
Unique Mechanics: Release the Bison incorporates roaming Wilds in its Free Spins and Wild Respin features, adding dynamic movement to the gameplay. The Guaranteed Win feature provides occasional boosts during dry spells.
In-Game Dynamics: Wins are formed by landing three or more matching symbols on a payline from left to right. The game's high volatility means that wins may be less frequent but can be larger when they occur.
Player Strategy: Given the high volatility and fixed RTP, no strategy can alter the long-term house edge. Players might consider using the Ante Bet to increase Free Spins frequency or the Bonus Buy option for direct access to the main bonus round, managing their bankroll accordingly.
Comparison with Similar Slots
Release the Bison shares thematic and mechanical similarities with other nature-themed slots. For example, Pragmatic Play's own Wolf Gold offers a similar American wilderness theme with Money Respins and Free Spins, though its max win is lower at 2,500x. [Buffalo King](/catalog/pragmaticplay-buffalo-king) Megaways, also from Pragmatic Play, features a bison theme with a much larger number of ways to win and a higher max win potential of 5,000x, catering to players who prefer more dynamic reel structures. Another comparable title is [Great Rhino](/catalog/pragmaticplay-great-rhino) Megaways, which also offers a high volatility experience with a similar animal theme and a max win of 20,000x, providing a more extreme win potential.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum win potential in Release the Bison?
The maximum win potential in Release the Bison is capped at 3,000 times the player's bet. This figure represents the highest possible payout from a single spin or bonus round.
How does the RTP of Release the Bison compare to other slots?
The game's deployed RTP at Chips.gg is 96.54%, which is considered above average for online slots. It's important to note that some casinos may offer different RTP configurations for this game.
Can I buy the Free Spins feature in Release the Bison?
Yes, players have the option to purchase direct entry into the Free Spins round. The cost varies depending on whether you want to trigger it with 3, 4, or 5 Scatter symbols.
What is the purpose of the Ante Bet option?
The Ante Bet increases your stake by 25% and, in return, boosts your chances of naturally triggering the Free Spins bonus round. This is a common feature in Pragmatic Play slots.
Are there any unique Wild features in this game?
Yes, the game features a Wild Respin feature in the base game if 4+ Wilds land, where Wilds roam and award respins. During Free Spins, all Wilds that land also become roaming for the duration of the feature.
Conclusion
Release the Bison offers a visually appealing journey into the American wilderness, backed by solid mechanics and a respectable RTP of 96.54%. Its high volatility caters to players who enjoy the thrill of chasing larger wins, even if they occur less frequently. The roaming Wilds in both the base game's Wild Respin feature and the Free Spins add an engaging dynamic. While the maximum win of 3,000x might not be the highest compared to some competitors, the combination of features like the Ante Bet and Bonus Buy options provides flexibility for different play styles. This slot is best suited for players who appreciate high volatility gameplay and a classic slot experience with modern bonus enhancements.
