Sakura Tree Slot Machine
Sakura Tree is a 5-reel, 30-payline slot machine from developer IGT that can also be played as a 243 ways to win MultiWay title. This double configuration set-up offers flexible gaming when it comes to the players.
The game is stated as possessing medium volatility with a low denomination. IGT has also hinted that it is being targeted towards a female audience but there is no reason to suggest that men cannot enjoy some floral slots gaming.
There is the chance to earn a maximum jackpot value of 10,000 credits when playing with the 30-payline version and 4,000 credits when playing with the 243 ways to win version. A maximum bet of 1,500 credits is allowed when playing 30-paylines and it is restricted to 1,200 credits when playing 243 ways to win.
IGT states that the payback percentage ranges between 89.9% and 98%, so it will depend on which casino you find the game. However, having nearly 90% as a minimum level is good news for players.
Theme
The sakura tree is a form of cherry blossom. It is a tree that is native to the Himalayas but is commonly found across the northern hemisphere. This particular type of tree is found in Japan and the country uses it as its national flower.
IGT has touched upon Japanese culture for a number of their slots before such as Jewel of the Arts and Red Mansions but this adopts a more flowery approach to proceedings. This is no doubt due to IGT's openly stated intent to target the female demographic. Bit sexist isn't it? It's like saying men love boobs and beer... OK, point proven.
The symbols on the reels are all very Japanese and natural. That might not be the most artistic way to communicate that via text but it's true. The symbols range from origami paper displays, bonsai trees, Japanese fans, Japanese ornaments, Japanese umbrellas, koi carp fish, tortoises, birds, and rabbits.
Features
IGT rarely overwhelm their slot machines with a dazzling array of bonus features but they offer enough to keep things entertaining. Here is a look at the bonus features that the developer has available to play on this game.
- Sakura Wilds – Essentially, these are Wild Multipliers that are constantly getting involved in the action. The Wild Multipliers up for grabs consist of 2x, 3x, 4x, 5x, and 10x. So there are some potential big wins to be achieved through the Sakura Wilds alone.
- Blossom Bonus – This feature is triggered by hitting three or more Blossom Bonus symbols across the reels. The Sakura Wilds come into play on this feature which is your average free spins bonus round. After each spin the Sakura Wilds will float down onto the reels and replace different symbols. Additional free spins can be won if you land a Free Game symbol across the reels on a free spin.
Summary
Sakura Tree is a slot that was released with the intent to appeal to the ladies. Unfortunately, though, it's our opinion that the slot will not only fail to appeal to women but to players full stop. The Sakura Wilds are the one-trick pony this game offers. The free spins are diabolical. If you hit five of them then you will feel you're riding your luck.
IGT are capable of a lot better than this so it is very annoying when they appear to put a half-hearted effort into a slot game. If you want a quick fix on an IGT slot then this might just suffice but do not expect to spend much time playing.
