Always Up

Theme & Visuals

Always Up, from Fantasma Games, presents a rather generic take on the classic fruit slot theme, albeit with a modern, somewhat futuristic twist. The visuals are crisp and clean, but ultimately uninspired. The symbols are your standard cherries, lemons, and bars, alongside the more contemporary addition of glowing neon accents. The background is a simple gradient, lacking any real depth or character. While the game looks polished, it doesn’t offer anything particularly unique or memorable in terms of visual design. It feels safe and, dare I say, a little bland compared to other slots on the market.

Mechanics & Betting

Always Up operates on a fairly standard 5x3 reel grid with 243 ways to win. The betting range is reasonably broad, catering to both casual players and high rollers. The gameplay is straightforward: spin the reels and hope to land matching symbols on adjacent reels from left to right. There’s an autoplay feature for those who prefer a more hands-off approach. However, the base game can feel repetitive due to the lack of any significant modifiers or features.

Bonus Features (Free Spins, etc.)

The main attraction of Always Up is the Free Spins bonus round, triggered by landing three or more scatter symbols. Before the Free Spins begin, players are presented with a choice of modifiers, each offering a different risk/reward profile. These modifiers include options like multipliers, extra free spins, and increased chances of landing high-paying symbols. The choice of modifiers adds a layer of strategic depth, but the overall bonus feature feels somewhat derivative and doesn’t significantly deviate from the standard free spins formula seen in countless other slots.

Math Model (High Variance analysis)

With a reported RTP of 95.07%, Always Up falls below the industry average, which is a significant drawback. This, coupled with its high volatility, means that players should expect long periods of relatively small wins punctuated by occasional large payouts. The high variance nature of the game can be both exciting and frustrating, as players may experience significant dry spells before hitting a substantial win. This makes it crucial to manage your bankroll carefully and be prepared for potentially long losing streaks. This game is NOT for the faint of heart. It demands patience and a robust bankroll to weather the volatility.

Pro Tip (How to play it)

Given the high volatility and below-average RTP, it’s essential to approach Always Up with a disciplined betting strategy. Start with smaller bets to get a feel for the game’s volatility and gradually increase your stake as you become more comfortable. When triggering the Free Spins bonus round, carefully consider the risk/reward profile of each modifier before making your selection. Choosing a modifier with a lower multiplier but a higher chance of triggering extra free spins may be a safer option for extending your gameplay and increasing your chances of landing a significant win. Remember to set a loss limit and stick to it.

Expert Verdict (Score 5/10)

Always Up is a visually competent but ultimately uninspired slot that offers a fairly standard gameplay experience. The high volatility and below-average RTP are significant drawbacks, making it a risky proposition for players. While the Free Spins bonus round with modifier choices adds a touch of strategic depth, it’s not enough to elevate the game above mediocrity. A score of 5/10 reflects the game’s overall lack of originality and its unappealing mathematical model.