How providers update classics: Book-series modernization
Introduction
The Book Series is one of the most recognizable lines of Egyptian-themed video slots. Starting with the classic Book of Ra from Novomatic, providers have repeatedly updated the idea of a "book of the dead," introducing modern technologies, various bonuses and adaptation for mobile devices. In this article, we will analyze in detail the key directions of the evolution of Book slots and demonstrate how the classics remain relevant in 2025.
1. History and basic concept of the Book-series
Book of Ra (2005, Novomatic): 5 × 3, 9 lines, the symbol "book" appears both Scatter and expanding Wild in 10 freespins.
Book of Dead (2016, Play'n GO): verbatim copy of mechanics, but improved graphics and sound, RTP 96.21%, increased volatility.
Legacy of Dead (2019, Play 'n GO): added respin functions, expanding character selection for each freespin, RTP 96.58%.
The starting point has always been a simple, understandable format - "find three books, get 10 freespins with one expanding character."
2. Mechanical innovations
2. 1 Expanding and accumulative Wild
Choice of extender symbol: In Legacy of Dead and new versions of Book of Dead, players see in advance which symbol will expand on the freespins, which increases the feeling of control.
Cumulative multipliers: In some remakes (Book of Dead 2 from Pragmatic Play), each new Wild increases the multiplier of the freespins by + 1.
2. 2 Cascades and megaweiss-like mechanics
Respin bonuses: Mega Book of Dead (Red Tiger) offers respin mode for three or more books, where disappeared characters are replaced with new ones without losing current winnings.
Split Symbols: In Book of Immortals Megaways (Inspired), book symbols can occupy 2-4 positions, creating up to 100,000 ways to win.
2. 3 Bonus Buy function
Buying Frispins: All modern adaptations (Book of Dead TP by Push Gaming, Legacy of Dead Buy from SLINGO) provide the option to buy 10-20 Frispins for a fixed price calculated by the average X-factor.
3. Graphics and sound design
3D rendering and animation: New versions of Book of Dead 2 (Pragmatic) use 3D models of artifacts, dynamic shadows and contrasting light, creating a "living tomb" effect.
Cinematic intro: Book of Ra Deluxe has short videos with a span over the desert and stone portals in the HTML5 update.
Adaptive sound: In Android and iOS versions, the volume of music and FX effects is automatically adjusted depending on the power of the device to avoid lags.
4. Technological modernization
HTML5 and WebGL: Transition to WebGL for smooth textures and faster loading - Legacy of Dead loads in less than 2 seconds on 3G.
Cross-platform synchronization: unified progress and balance in Book of Dead across devices (saving to the cloud through a casino account).
VR and AR elements: Relax Gaming's experimental version of Book of Dead VR allows you to "walk" around the tomb, collecting books with your eyes and gestures.
5. Cases of major providers
5. 1 Play’n GO
Book of Dead 2: improved engine, choice of expanding symbol, bonus buy, animation of painting the walls of the tomb.
Legacy of Dead: Launched in 2022 with a revised RTP of 96.58% and a progressive freespin multiplier.
5. 2 Red Tiger Gaming
Mega Book of Dead: Added respin rounds, pick-and-click to additional freespins and replaceable characters.
5. 3 Novomatic
Book of Ra Deluxe HTML5: full conversion of flash class with Retina graphics, autospin with limits and animation reduction function for weak devices.
5. 4 Pragmatic Play
Book of Dead TP: integration into the Tournament Play platform, where players compete for prizes following a series of freespins.
6. Recommendations for players
1. Start with demos of all key adaptations to appreciate the mechanics of respin vs. classics.
2. Compare RTP and volatility: newer versions often offer slightly higher RTP (up to 96.58%) with similar volatility.
3. Use Bonus Buy only in quiet sessions with clear bankroll management.
4. Test mobile client versions on your device, especially if you prefer turbo mode.
Conclusion
Book-series upgrades are a great example of how classic gameplay is combined with the latest gaming technologies. Providers develop the "book" through new mechanics (respin, Split Symbols), graphical updates (3D, VR) and convenient functions (Bonus Buy, cross-platform), while maintaining a recognizable plot and structure. This approach allows the legendary series to remain relevant to any audience - from nostalgic fans to innovators.
