Shikibu Slot

Shikibu Slot

Participating in slot games can offer more than just enjoyment and the chance to win prizes. Sometimes, it can also provide an opportunity for learning, and that’s exactly the case with the Shikibu video slot from Konami. When delving into the history behind this Asian-themed slot, we discovered the story of Murasaki Shikibu, a woman who authored The Tale of Genji between 1000 and 1012 AD. Despite being Japanese, she was proficient in Chinese and served as a lady in waiting at Empress Shoshi’s court. While much about her remains unknown, Shikibu might not have been her real name; however, her work, The Tale of Genji, was an immediate success and continues to be celebrated to this day. Thus concludes the tale.

Fast forward to the present, where we encounter a vibrant slot machine featuring Oriental symbols like playing cards, a crane, gold tablets, and the captivating visage of Shikibu herself. These visually appealing symbols grace the 40 paylines and five reels of the game, with special bonus symbols triggering various free spin rounds. The common Action Stacked Symbols feature found in Konami’s slot games can enhance the chances of landing wins, while a wild symbol acts as a substitute to boost winnings further.

This Japanese-themed slot game is a creation of Konami, based in the Land of the Rising Sun. Though their focus primarily lies on slots for brick-and-mortar casinos, an increasing number of their games are becoming accessible on online casinos and mobile platforms. While we anticipate Shikibu’s online debut, the game can currently be enjoyed on casino sites worldwide. Its captivating visuals and engaging gameplay make it a title worth seeking out.

Symbols With Style

While playing card symbols are commonplace in slot machines, this game’s 9, 10, J, Q, K, and A icons receive a Japanese makeover that enhances the theme. Other symbols include traditional icons symbolizing good fortune, such as a turtle, all designed in keeping with the Asian motif.

To form winning combinations, standard symbols must land on adjacent reels from the left side along a payline, with a golden flower serving as a valuable wild symbol that helps complete combinations.

Observe the center reel with split symbols on it, presenting six symbols instead of the usual three. This arrangement on the middle reel makes it somewhat easier to achieve runs of at least three matching symbols across a payline.

Pick Your Bonus Games

The main bonus feature is triggered by golden writing on a red background when seen in three or more spots in a single spin. This initiates free spins, with wins during this round multiplied. Before the free spins commence, you can choose the number of free games and the accompanying multipliers from five different options.

If you prefer more free spins with lower win multipliers, the first option offers 20 free games with wild-assisted wins randomly multiplied by 2x, 3x, or 5x. Opting for the second choice grants 10 additional spins, with wild-assisted wins multiplied by 5x, 8x, or 10x. Alternatively, select five free spins, where multipliers of 10x, 15x, or 20x apply whenever the wild symbol contributes to a win.

Choosing just three free games results in wild-assisted wins multiplied by 15x, 20x, or 40x. The fifth option is the Mystery Choice spins, where one of the other four sets of free spins is selected, paired with a corresponding multiplier range. Luck may bring you the best mix of 20 bonus games with 15x, 20x, or 40x multipliers, or on the contrary, a mere three free spins with 2x, 3x, or 5x the base value when the wild symbol completes a combination within that brief period.

Place Your Bets

All 40 paylines are active at all times, and wagers can start from as little as 0.01 per line. Increasing the stakes can lead to more substantial rewards, catering to both casual players seeking smaller prizes and high rollers aiming for significant wins.

Until an online version of this game is released, free Shikibu video slots won’t be available, and players interested in playing slots on iPhones, iPads, or other devices will have to wait for a mobile-optimized release.

Geisha Girls

Featuring Shikibu adorned in the characteristic white makeup and intricate hairstyle of a Geisha, let’s explore a couple of other online slot machines with a similar aesthetic. A notable contender is Geisha by Aristocrat, a straightforward game where the five reels and 25 lines showcase traditional elements like paper fans, golden dragons, and a picturesque view of Mount Fuji. The Geisha symbol serves as a wild, doubling the value of completed combos, while the Japanese-style gate acts as a scatter symbol that offers payouts of up to 800 coins.

For a more sophisticated experience, consider the Geisha Story video slot by Playtech. Alongside classic symbols such as fans, gates, and wooden shoes, this game features bonus elements like free spins with multipliers and a unique Dollar Ball round that can lead to a progressive jackpot win. In this side game, players select five balls from 49, and if their chosen numbers match the ones drawn in the subsequent draw, a substantial jackpot awaits.

A Traditional Treat

Shikibu appeals to players who appreciate the elegance and allure of ancient Japan. While knowledge of the historical figure behind the game isn’t necessary, it adds an enriching layer to the gameplay. The striking visuals, combined with the potential for consistent wins in the base game, are further enhanced when triggering the free spins feature. Choosing between low-volatility options with 20 spins or riskier but possibly rewarding three spins is a decision left to the player. Opting for the Mystery Choice adds an element of surprise as the game unveils your reward.

The only minor flaw may be the generic soundtrack that lacks thematic connection, but it’s a negligible drawback in an otherwise highly recommended slot experience.

Jesse Miller iGaming Writer

Last Updated: December 17, 2024