Howdy, partners! If you're into slots, chances are you've heard whispers, or even loud shouts, about Dead or Alive 2. But today, I'm focusing on its slightly newer sibling: Dead or Alive 2™ Feature Buy from NetEnt. This isn't just a slot; it's an experience, a true adventure. It’s wild, it’s risky, and it’s got the potential for some absolutely mind-blowing wins. Think of it as the ultimate high-stakes poker game, but with cowboys.
How to Play Dead or Alive 2™ Feature Buy
Playing Dead or Alive 2 Feature Buy is pretty much like any other 5-reel, 3-row slot. You set your bet level, which can range from quite low to pretty high, and then you spin. It has 9 fixed paylines, so you don't need to worry about adjusting those. What's different about this version, as the name suggests, is the Feature Buy option.
Instead of waiting for those scatters to land naturally, you can pay a premium – typically 100x your bet – to instantly trigger the free spins round. For us impatient players, or those who just want to get straight to the action, this is a game-changer. It's like buying a VIP ticket straight to the front of the line at a concert; you pay more, but you get what you came for instantly.
RTP and Volatility
Alright, let's talk about what really defines this game: its volatility. Dead or Alive 2 Feature Buy is, without a doubt, one of the most highly volatile slots out there. This isn't a game for the faint of heart. It's like playing Russian roulette with your bankroll – long dry spells are common, but when that bonus hits, it can pay out truly legendary sums. We're talking tens of thousands of times your stake here.
The RTP (Return to Player) is generally around 96.80%, which is fantastic for a slot this volatile. Just remember, that's a long-term average. In a single session, you could win big or lose everything. My experience says you need a decent bankroll and a lot of patience to chase the big wins here. It's not uncommon to buy the bonus a few times and get absolutely nothing, but then boom, one good bonus and you're set.
Base Game Modifiers
In the base game of Dead or Alive 2, the focus isn't really on a bunch of fancy modifiers popping up. It's more about landing those classic Wild symbols and, crucially, the Scatters. The Wilds are represented by the five outlaw characters, and they do what wilds do best – substitute for other symbols to create wins. They don't have multipliers or special animations in the base game, but they are essential for landing those initial wins and helping you survive while you wait for the main event.
The main goal in the base game is always to hit those 3 or more Scatter symbols (the two crossed revolvers) to trigger the Free Spins. That's where all the action and massive win potential truly lie.
Bonus Rounds
This is where Dead or Alive 2 becomes legendary. Land 3 or more Scatters (or buy the feature), and you get to choose one of three distinct free spins bonus rounds. This choice is crucial and affects everything:
- Train Heist: This is the lowest volatility option. You start with 10 free spins and a multiplier that increases with every Wild symbol that lands. Each Wild also gives you one extra spin. It's more consistent, like a steady train ride, but the max win potential isn't as high. Good for when you want a longer bonus.
- Old Saloon: This is the medium volatility option, similar to the original Dead or Alive slot. You get 12 free spins. All wins are doubled (2x multiplier). Any Wilds that land become sticky and remain on the reels for the duration of the bonus. Landing a Wild on all five reels gives you an extra 5 spins. This one can pay really well if you get sticky wilds early.
- High Noon Saloon: This is the extreme volatility option, and it's the one everyone chases for the absolute max wins. You also get 12 free spins. Wilds are sticky like in Old Saloon, but here's the kicker: if multiple Wilds land on the same reel, they gain multipliers (2x for two Wilds, 3x for three Wilds on the same reel). These multipliers also multiply each other! This is where you can see those 10,000x+ wins. It's like a duel at high noon – super risky, but if you win, you win BIG. This is my go-to choice, despite the risk.
The sheer variety and potential in these bonus rounds are what make me adore this game. Choosing which one to go for adds a layer of strategy that I really enjoy.
The Feature Buy Option
The "Feature Buy" aspect in this version of Dead or Alive 2 is a game-changer for many players. I mean, we all want to hit those bonuses, right? Sometimes you just don't want to grind through hundreds of base game spins waiting for the scatters.
Paying 100x your bet to trigger the bonus instantly can be a smart move if you're feeling lucky and your bankroll allows it. It essentially cuts out the "dead spins" in the base game. However, remember, it's 100x your bet – if you're betting $1, that's $100 for one bonus. And there's no guarantee you'll make that money back. I've had plenty of feature buys that paid peanuts, but then I've had others that paid 500x, 1000x, or even more. It's a gamble within a gamble, but I love having the option.
Overall Review
Honestly, Dead or Alive 2 Feature Buy is one of my all-time favorite slots, hands down. The Wild West theme is brilliantly executed, the graphics are top-notch, and the music is just perfect. But it’s the thrill of those bonus rounds, especially the High Noon Saloon, that keeps me coming back. The potential for truly massive wins is what makes it so exciting.
The addition of the feature buy option in this version is a huge plus for me. Sometimes I just want to skip the wait and get straight to the action, even if it costs a bit more. It means I can try for those massive hits more frequently.
The biggest downside, and it's a significant one, is its extreme volatility. This game can absolutely demolish your bankroll in minutes. It requires patience, discipline, and a willingness to accept that you might lose big before you win big. If you're new to high volatility slots or have a small budget, approach with caution. But if you're an adrenaline junkie like me, this slot is a must-try. Just remember to play responsibly!
Slot Info
Slot Data
- Provider: NetEnt
- Reels: 5
- Rows: 3
- Paylines: 9 (fixed)
- RTP: ~96.80% (varies slightly if feature buy RTP is different, but generally this)
- Volatility: Extremely High
- Max Win: Over 100,000x your bet (officially 111,111x for High Noon)
- Min/Max Bet: Typically from 0.09 to 9.00 (varies by casino)
- Features: Free Spins (3 types), Sticky Wilds, Multipliers, Feature Buy
- Feature Buy Cost: 100x current bet
FAQs About Dead or Alive 2™ Feature Buy
- Which Dead or Alive 2 bonus is best?
For the highest win potential, High Noon Saloon is king. But it's also the riskiest. Train Heist is the lowest risk, and Old Saloon is a good middle ground. It really depends on what you're looking for!
- Is the Feature Buy worth it?
It can be! It guarantees you access to the bonus. However, it's expensive and doesn't guarantee a profit. I use it when I'm feeling extra lucky and have the bankroll to absorb potential losses.
- Is Dead or Alive 2 just a high variance slot?
Yes, it's famous for it. It's designed for huge payouts that come infrequently. You need a solid bankroll to withstand the swings.
User Reviews
- "OMG, High Noon is INSANE! Hit 5000x on a feature buy. Never going back to low volatility slots." - WildWestWinner
- "It devours my money sometimes, but the thrill of potentially hitting that super bonus is unmatched. Not for beginners though!" - DoA2Fan
- "The feature buy is a godsend when you're impatient. Just be smart with your bet size!" - BonusHunter
