Shogun of Time is a visually stunning, feature-rich slot machine capturing the fusion of ancient samurai tradition and neon-lit cyberpunk future—a striking evolution in slot design for Australian players in 2025. Developed by Microgaming and Just For The Win, this game’s unique Reel Split mechanic, 243 ways to win, compelling stacked wilds, and immersive “Neo-Tokyo” atmosphere cement it as a modern pokie standout for both desktop and mobile play. This in-depth Australian review covers its core mechanics, bonuses, RTP, winning tips, and responsible gaming guidance for today’s audience.
Theme: From Ancient Samurai to Futuristic Neon
Shogun of Time presents one of the most distinctive slot aesthetics in the current market. Players are transported between ancient Japanese eras and a dazzling, high-tech “Neo-Tokyo” future through masterful art and animation. The reels come alive with cherry blossoms, samurai masks, shimmering armor, cyberpunk coins, and two bold female warriors (the game’s wilds).
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Background: Deep neon pinks and purples, animated cityscapes mixing pagodas and skyscrapers.
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Music: High-energy, synth-laden soundtrack intensifies in bonus rounds and during big wins.
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Symbol Design: From classic card values (10–A) to ornate Japanese fans, armor, and the game’s logo—each detail is razor-sharp and packed with theme relevance.
Layout, Betting, & Ways to Win
Base Game:
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4 reels, 3 rows (81 ways to win initially)
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Bet range: $0.10 – $100 per spin, appealing to all budgets
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Autoplay settings: 10–100 consecutive spins with advanced loss/win controls
Reel Split Respin Mechanic:
Whenever a four-symbol winning combination lands, one respin is triggered, and a fifth reel is briefly added in the centre—expanding the ways to win from 81 to 243 for the respin. Stacked wilds can drop, leading to much larger payouts.
RTP, Volatility & Payouts
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RTP: 96.02%, a modern standard giving fair return for longer sessions.
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Variance: Medium—pays often enough for steady gameplay, with surges in the bonus and respins.
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Max Win: Up to 2,717x your stake in a single spin (possible in respins/free spins); max coin value is roughly $200,000.
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Multiplier & Wilds: Both female warriors can substitute, trigger wild stacks, and multiply wins.
Symbols, Paytable & Special Features
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Shogun of Time Logo: Pays highest (12x for five of a kind)
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Coins, Samurai Masks, Fans, Armor: Mid-level wins, highly thematic
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10–A: Lower payout, frequently align for base wins
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Wilds: The dual-female samurai (historic/futuristic), appear stacked, increasing line hits
Scatter:
Pot of cherry blossoms—three or four awards 8 or 16 free spins, respectively, and boosts your payout.
Bonus Rounds: Free Spins & Reel Split Respin
Reel Split Respin
The standout feature!
Triggered by a four-symbol win, this gives you a respin with a fifth reel (“Reel Split”) dropped into the center, raising the number of win combinations to 243. Stacked wilds can land for substantial payouts. This mechanic is rare and adds dramatic, action-packed moments.
Free Spins
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Eight free spins for three scatters; sixteen for four scatters.
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For the duration: The fifth reel is always active and locked as a “wild reel.”
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Wins are paid both left-to-right and right-to-left, not just left to right—doubling your hit rate.
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No retriggers, but the feature hits big with stacked wilds.
Multiplier Action:
During free spins and respins, wilds can multiply your payouts, turbocharging the volatility and excitement.
Mobile and Desktop Experience (2025)
Shogun of Time is perfectly optimized for mobile and desktop play, using HTML5 for instant access on any device. Touch controls, fast load times, and no loss of graphic fidelity or features assure a seamless experience—crucial for Aussie players preferring pokies on the go.
Winning Strategy & Responsible Gambling Advice
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Bet Sizing: Start low to enjoy the base game and look for those four-symbol wins to hit respins. Raise bets only with a healthy bankroll for bonus-chasing.
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Aim for Respins & Free Spins: The biggest wins come via Reel Split and free spins with stacked wilds—these features sharply elevate potential payouts.
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Know Volatility: The game can go through dry spells; use reality checks and limit tools in your chosen casino.
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Practice in Demo: Try before you buy—demo mode helps master features and spot payout patterns.
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Responsible Play: Set deposit, loss, and session limits; all reputable online casinos accept BetStop and offer quick access to Gambling Help Online and support lines.
Shogun of Time vs. Other Modern Pokies
| Slot | Reels/Ways | RTP | Key Feature | Max Win | Volatility |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shogun of Time | 4–5/81–243 | 96.02% | Reel Split/Respins | 2,717x bet | Medium |
| Dragon Born | 6/117,649 | 95%+ | Megaways/free spins | 40,000x | High |
| Ecuador Gold | 6/262,144 | 96.1% | Expanding reels | 6,500x | High |
| Queen of the Nile | 5/25 | 95.9% | Free spins/multiplier | 9,000x | Medium |
Shogun of Time excels for those wanting mid-volatility and cutting-edge theme/artistry, without the ultra-high risk of Megaways or cluster slots.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Stunning fusion theme (samurai & cyberpunk) | No progressive jackpot |
| Unique Reel Split Respin mechanic | Can be tough to trigger free spins |
| 243 ways to win (in respins/bonus) | Max win (2,717x) is lower than top rivals |
| High RTP, medium volatility—balanced for most players | No retriggering of free spins |
| Optimized mobile app/desktop fast-play | High volatility may not suit budget players |
| Win both ways in bonus |
FAQs – Shogun of Time Australia 2025
Is Shogun of Time available at every Aussie casino?
It’s present at most Australian online casinos offering Microgaming content—search by slot title for instant play.
Can I try the game for free?
Yes, reputable AU platforms provide free/demo mode for all features and paytable inspection.
What is the RTP and volatility?
RTP is 96.02%, volatility is medium—offering a blend of frequent hits and bonus-driven big wins.
How do the bonus rounds work?
Respins (via four-symbol wins) add a fifth reel and wild stacks; free spins activate with three or more scatters, bolster wins, and count combinations both ways.
Can I play on mobile?
Yes—Shogun of Time is fully mobile-optimized for iOS, Android, and browser-based play.
Final Verdict: Why Play Shogun of Time in 2025?
Shogun of Time dazzles with its unique blend of ancient and futuristic visuals, innovative bonus engine (Reel Split Respin), and accessible, medium-volatility gameplay. For Australians seeking a slot with star power, excitement, and genuine win potential—without the extreme swings in modern Megaways games—this pokie is a must-try in 2025. Play at licensed Australian online casinos, use all responsible gaming protections, and enjoy one of the most visually and mechanically engaging slots released in recent years.