A major point to grasp about the Summertime title is that there are multiple developers using the same name. The source material reviews the primary non-progressive versions – specifically a Microgaming Summertime slot with 5 reels and 9 paylines, and a Merkur Summertime slot featuring a simplified 3 reel layout. The source also briefly mentions a Summertime version linked to the Mega Moolah progressive slot network, however, this review will focus on the standard non-progressive versions developed by Microgaming and Merkur.
While both titles have a summery fruit-machine style theme, their designs and gameplay vary greatly. Microgaming's version has more beach-themed symbols, includes Wild multipliers, 15 free spins and a gamable bonus round. On the other hand, the Merkur version has less complex gameplay with a Rewin Feature and a gamble option.
The most important aspect to recognize regarding Summertime is it is not simply one slot. Both the Microgaming version and the Merkur version have a shared name and a summer-themed aesthetic but the structure of each version is vastly different.
The Microgaming Summertime version has significantly more features (ie 5 reels, 9 lines, Wilds, Scatters, Free Spins) and thus it is closer to what is traditionally considered an online video slot with several bonus rounds.
On the other hand, the Merkur Summertime version is far more reminiscent of classic slot machines. It utilizes fewer reels, faster spin speeds and less complicated gameplay. The Rewin Feature in combination with gamble options, offers additional entertainment opportunities to players who enjoy quicker, more simplistic slots as opposed to larger Free Spin bonuses.
Given the potential for differing versions of the title to appear in various formats (ie Microgaming vs. Merkur), players should always check the provider prior to initiating play.
| Software | Merkur |
|---|---|
| Slot Types | Classic Slots |
| Reels | 3 |
| Paylines | 5 |
| Slot Game Features | 3 Reel Slots, Wild Symbol, New Slots |
| Min. Bet | 0.05 |
| Max. Bet | 10 |
| Slot Themes | Summer |
| Slot RTP | 96.1% |
Both versions of the Summertime slot utilize a light, summery theme along with typical fruit-machine-style graphics. As noted in the source, fruit icons, bells, diamonds, fire-style sevens, chips, beach images and blue background colors are some examples of the graphic elements that make up both titles. However unlike many other themes in slots, these titles seem to convey a lighter, brighter feel rather than attempting to evoke emotion or drama.
As mentioned above, Microgaming's version of the Summertime slot seems to lean towards a casual beach-style slot. They utilized a seaside Scatter symbol and colorful fruit graphics to produce a warm summery feeling. While the design itself may appear dated relative to modern slots, it still maintains simplicity and clarity in terms of readability.
As previously stated, Merkur's Summertime version has a more classic arcade-style appearance. As such it lacks polish compared to newer slots; however for those who prefer fast spinning and simple symbols, this type of design may be preferable. The basic theme is maintained through fruits, bells and diamonds. The number of graphics is limited which helps maintain the focus on simple gameplay.
According to the source material, Microgaming's Summertime slot contains 5 reels, 3 rows and 9 lines. In addition to adjusting line amounts, players can choose from various coin denominations based on the specific version. The coin amount is listed within the source material as ranging from .01 up to 1.00. Additionally, it states that the total possible wager is approximately 45.00.
As noted earlier, Merkur took a much simpler approach in developing their Summertime version. Per the source table, it is classified as a 3 reel classic slot with 5 paylines and a summer theme. The source indicates that it features a Wild symbol and provides a bet amount range from .05 up to 10.00.
Although it references an RTP of 96.1% in its description of the title, the surrounding area presents conflicting RTP values (i.e., RTP = %). Thus, players should verify RTP in-game via the game info screen prior to engaging in play.
Ultimately, Merkur's Summertime was designed for speed and does not provide a long bonus round like Microgaming's offering. Rather it relies upon short spins and classic symbols combined with Rewin-type mechanics (described below) and gamble options for creating quick risk/reward opportunities. This format may appeal to those preferring simple reels, rapid decision-making, and faster-paced slot games.
According to the source material, Microgaming's Summertime offers twelve (12) symbols including:
Per the source material, the diamond represents the highest-paying symbol where five diamonds equate to 750 times your initial coin amount. Conversely, five cherries represent 100 times your initial coin amount. Please note that all pay values are subject to change and may need verification against the actual paytable since payouts may differ between versions/coin set-ups. The Summertime logo serves as the wild symbol for this version while the seaside/scattered icon serves as the scatter symbol.
Within Microgaming's Summertime slot, the Summertime logo serves as the Wild symbol. When substituting for any of the other symbols on a winning payline during normal play, it doubles the winning amount due to its x2 multiplier designation.
When five wild symbols appear on any active line during normal play within Microgaming's Summertime version it triggers either the largest possible winnings/jackpot of 10,000 coins. Again please confirm this value in your local paytable prior to placing real money wagers.
The seaside/icon is designated as the Scatter symbol for Microgaming's Summertime slot. The source notes that two or more Scatters appearing consecutively on adjacent reels reward instant wins whereas three or more Scatters simultaneously appearing on adjacent reels initiate the Free Spins feature.
Within this Free Spins feature, fifteen (15) Free Spins are awarded. All winning combinations achieved during this feature are multiplied by three (3) times. This represents arguably the most substantial benefit offered by Microgaming's Summertime given that it incorporates increased free spins along with enhanced winnings through the multiplier element.
Furthermore, according to this section of the source material, triggering free spins once again will result from landing Wilds; however another portion of this article specifies that re-triggering free spins occurs when Scatters appear.
Additionally, Microgaming's Summertime offers a Gamble Bonus Round opportunity immediately after achieving any wins. Players may opt to click "gamble," thereby guessing whether a face-down playing card is red or black color-wise or suit-wise. Correctly identifying the color increases the original win by two (2) fold, whereas correctly identifying the suit multiplies the original win four-fold (four times).
This feature is a popular classic slot feature yet adds an additional level of risk. If incorrect guesses occur in regards to color/suit identification, losses may be incurred by players for incorrectly guessed wins being lost. Therefore, players should consider utilizing caution and/or opting out of this opportunity.
Merkur's primary feature is referred to as Rewin. Based upon sections within the polished section of the source; it may activate after successful wins and could potentially lead to repeated wins until a stop symbol appears. This creates its own unique tension relative to the other version in that players receive multiple smaller feature opportunities rather than one lengthy free-spins round. Thus, this version would likely appeal to players who favor quicker-paced classic slots versus longer bonus rounds.
Similar to Microgaming's offering, Merkur's version also features gambling options post-win. Some options referenced in the article included card gamble ladder gamble and collecting half of your winnings. Each of these options provides players alternatives on how best to manage their respective wins post-successful landing.
The content provided includes conflicting RTP data. An earlier statement reads "RTP: 1%", which appears to be an error. Other parts of the document reference RTP at about 96.1%. Around 95% for Microgaming, and approximately 94% for Merkur. This makes it impossible to determine a consistent RTP.
RTP (return to player) represents a theoretical long term percent based upon many rounds of spins. RTP is not a representation of a 96.1% chance to win on one spin. Microgaming's version is represented as medium Volatility, and free spins/multiplier. Merkur's version could potentially seem quicker/faster and more frequent; however, the maximum amount won is lower, and reportedly less than 2000 credits.
The source provides multiple bet-related pieces of information. Microgaming's version references coin denominations ranging from .01 to 1.00, along with a highest allowable wager of $/£/€45. Merkur's table provides a lowest allowable bet of .05 and a highest allowable bet of 10. All referenced bet limits will depend on the specific version being played.
In order to determine what each player needs to set before beginning their session, i.e., coin denomination, active pay lines, total wager, etc. As well as if gamble options are allowed; players should visit the respective paytables. Increasing a player's overall wager increases a player's ability to receive larger payouts. However, increasing a player's wager does not affect the probability of receiving wilds/free spins/rewin/gamble bonuses.
It appears both versions of Summertime are compatible with mobile devices. Microgaming's five-reel version is expected to operate smoothly on all mobile devices due to the fact that the nine paylines do not create congestion. Additionally, Merkur's three reel version is very simplistic and can accommodate shorter mobile sessions. When playing on mobile, players should ensure that the casino supports the correct version of Summertime. What a casino advertises as summertime, might not necessarily be the version you expect.
Because there is such a large difference between the two versions of Summertime, demo play will allow players to test out the micro-games' wilds/scatters/free spins and Gamble Bonus or Merkur's rewinds/ladder games/capture Half feature using free-play money. Results obtained via demo-mode will not foretell actual winnings, yet demo mode will assist players in understanding how the game operates.
When discussing summertime, it is essential to recognize that summertime is essentially referring to several different slots. If a player prefers the use of free-spins/wild-multipliers/traditional five-reels; then Microgaming's Summertime would be the preferred choice. If a player prefers fast-classic gaming/rewind-feature/gambling options; then Merkur's Summertime would be the preferred choice.
Regardless of which version is chosen, neither will guarantee a player success. Each time a player initiates a spin; the outcome is randomly generated. Therefore, the most effective course of action would be to identify which company developed the game/version you are interested in/verify the paytable/confirm rtp/demo-mode/test your luck/determine an acceptable wager amount prior to commencing play.
There are discussions regarding micro-gaming & Merkur versions as well as briefly mentioning Mega Moolah.
The Microgaming version includes fifteen free spins with a multiplier of three.
The Merkur version is described as having the Rewin Feature.
On Microgaming's version the logo for Summertime serves as the wild symbol.
On Microgaming's version, the beach/seaside icon represents the scatter.
Yes. The source mentions card gambles and ladder gambles for Merkur.
Since the source included conflicting values for RTP, please consult the exact game version for RTP.
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