What Is Sticky Wilds?

What Is Sticky Wilds?

Sticky Wilds are wild symbols that stay on the reels for several spins or for the whole bonus. In slots, these symbols can continue to act as wilds while other parts of the game change, but the exact rules depend on the game.

What is Sticky Wilds?

The sticky wilds meaning is simple: a wild symbol lands on a reel and remains in place for a set period, such as several spins or the duration of a bonus round. A standard wild may only apply to the spin on which it appears; a sticky wild can carry over to later spins.

Check a game’s paytable or in-game information screen for its specific definition. It should explain how long the wild stays, when it can disappear and whether the rule applies during regular play, a bonus, or both.

Simple example

Imagine a wild lands on the second reel and stays there for the next few spins. On each of those spins, it may substitute for other symbols according to the game’s rules. This is a simplified example, not a promise that a particular combination will form or pay.

Common misconceptions

  • Sticky wilds do not necessarily stay forever. They may last for a fixed number of spins or only for a bonus.
  • The feature does not work identically in every slot. Duration and symbol behaviour vary by game.
  • A sticky wild does not guarantee a win. Its effect depends on the symbols, paylines or other win rules in that slot.

How Sticky Wilds works

Sticky wilds slots explained in plain English: after a wild lands, the game keeps it on the reels for the period stated in its rules. Subsequent spins can then take place with that symbol still visible. When the stated period ends, the wild may be removed; the game’s paytable or feature description gives the details.

If you are comparing slots, look for the feature’s duration and where it can occur. Do not assume that a game’s sticky wilds remain for the same number of spins as another game’s. For more slot terminology, browse the Glossary.

Examples in popular slots

The database lists these games as examples of slots using sticky wilds:

Game Provider RTP
The Dog House No Dog Left Behind Not listed Not listed
Wild Witches Not listed Not listed
Wild Wick Not listed Not listed

Provider and RTP details are not listed here. Check each game’s in-game information screen for its specifications; RTP can differ between casino versions.

Related terms

  • Wild symbol: A symbol that can substitute for other symbols, subject to the slot’s rules.
  • Paytable: The in-game reference for symbol values, winning combinations and feature rules.
  • Bonus round: A separate game feature where special rules may apply. Sticky wilds may last for the whole bonus in some slots.

See slots with Sticky Wilds to browse games listed with this feature.

FAQ

What is Sticky Wilds in slots?

Sticky Wilds are wild symbols that stay on the reels for several spins or for the whole bonus. The exact duration depends on the game.

Which slots use sticky wilds?

Examples from the database are The Dog House No Dog Left Behind, Wild Witches and Wild Wick.

How does Sticky Wilds work?

A wild remains in place for a period specified by the slot, potentially affecting later spins. Check the game’s paytable or information screen for its rules.

Do sticky wilds stay for the entire game?

Not necessarily. They may stay for several spins or for a whole bonus, depending on the slot.

18+ only. Play responsibly; demos use virtual credits and no real money.