Shogun Of Time by Microgaming | Time Travel Slot Showdown
Step into a world where samurai meet cyberpunk in Shogun Of Time by Microgaming. In this comparison review, you’ll see its RTP, bonus features, reel mechanics, and how it fares against popular Philippine-market slots to help you decide where to spin.
Why Filipino Players Are Talking About Shogun Of Time
Slot fans in the Philippines are naturally curious about titles that stand out visually and technically. Shogun Of Time is one of those games that sparks attention for two reasons: the time-travel concept and its hybrid gameplay.
Imagine starting with only four reels, then suddenly unlocking a fifth reel right in the middle of the action. That change in format adds freshness to long playing sessions. Many players in Metro Manila or Cebu who play during commutes on their phones enjoy this “switch in tempo” because it feels like the game rewards patience with unexpected action.
Overview of Shogun Of Time by Microgaming
The Story and Design
Shogun Of Time was released in 2019 through a collaboration between Just For The Win and Microgaming. The theme is unlike a typical slot. Instead of a straightforward Japanese motif, the developers created a futuristic Tokyo vibe where neon lights shine over ancient armor, and a female samurai character guides you through both timelines.
The audio is also carefully designed. Think of a mix between cinematic taiko drums and electronic synth waves, giving players the feeling that they’re jumping between past and future. On mobile devices, this soundtrack pairs well with earphones, which many Filipino players prefer when spinning in public places.
Math Model and Specs
Here’s what makes this slot appealing in terms of structure:
- Layout: 4 reels × 3 rows (base game), with 81 paylines
- Feature mode: Expands to 5 reels × 3 rows with 243 paylines
- RTP: 96.02%
- Volatility: Medium, balancing frequent wins and larger payouts
- Bet range: Equivalent to around ₱5 up to ₱5,000 per spin depending on operator settings
- Maximum win: 2,717× the stake, which means a ₱100 spin could theoretically pay ₱271,700
This balance between base consistency and strong bonus potential makes it less intimidating for new players but still attractive to experienced ones.
Features That Define the Game
Wild Symbols and Their Impact
The wild symbol takes form as a female warrior who represents the bridge between time periods. She substitutes for most symbols, increasing the chance of creating winning combinations. During free spins, this effect grows stronger, as stacked wilds appear more often.
A quick example: if you land three cherry blossoms and a wild, the payout counts as if you had four blossoms. That small push often turns a near-miss into a meaningful win.
The Reel Split Re-Spin
This is one of the highlights of Shogun Of Time. When four identical symbols appear in a row during the base game, the system adds a fifth reel in the middle. Only that reel spins, while the others lock in place.
Why is this special? Because your winning ways jump from 81 to 243. It feels like the slot gives you a second chance to complete a big combination. Some Filipino players even call it the “bonus bridge” because it bridges a near-miss into something rewarding.
Free Spins and Expanding Reels
The main bonus round triggers with scatters:
- 3 scatters = 8 free spins
- 4 scatters = 16 free spins
During these spins, the game automatically expands to 5 reels, and the middle reel turns into a stacked wild. What makes it exciting is that wins can pay both directions — left to right and right to left. For example, a three-of-a-kind samurai mask on reels 5-4-3 pays just as it would if it landed 1-2-3.
The only catch? Free spins cannot be retriggered. While this limits the length of the bonus round, it still provides a satisfying rush because of the boosted paylines and guaranteed wild in the center.
Pros and Cons of Shogun Of Time
Strengths
- Distinct theme blending cyberpunk and samurai aesthetics
- Solid RTP of 96.02% with medium variance, good for balanced play
- Feature mechanics (Reel Split Re-Spin and free spins with sticky wilds) provide varied gameplay
- Optimized for mobile play, smooth even on mid-range devices common in the Philippines
- Maximum win potential of 2,717× keeps sessions exciting
Weaknesses
- Base game can feel static until features are triggered
- Free spins cannot be retriggered, reducing long bonus potential
- No progressive jackpot, which might turn off players chasing multi-million peso payouts
Comparison With Popular Slots in the Philippines
To see how Shogun Of Time measures up, let’s look at how it stacks against well-known titles that Filipino players already enjoy.
Shogun Of Time vs Wild Overlords Bonus Buy
Wild Overlords Bonus Buy is a legendary slot in many markets, including Asia. It offers a high volatility ride with an RTP around 95%. While it has the iconic expanding symbol feature in its free spins, the gameplay is more traditional.
In comparison:
- Shogun Of Time gives you more dynamic visuals and futuristic appeal.
- Wild Overlords Bonus Buy offers bigger variance but can lead to long dry spells.
- Filipino players who prefer steadier play might lean toward Shogun Of Time, while thrill-seekers who want massive highs and lows may choose Wild Overlords Bonus Buy.
Shogun Of Time vs. Sakura Fortune
Sakura Fortune by Quickspin is another Asian-inspired slot familiar in Philippine gaming circles. It features a wandering wild mechanic and has higher volatility compared to Shogun Of Time.
The differences stand out clearly:
- Sakura Fortune emphasizes high-risk payouts with less frequent wins.
- Shogun Of Time focuses on medium variance, giving more consistent returns.
- For mobile players in the Philippines who like smoother sessions without long dry runs, Shogun Of Time feels more forgiving.
Shogun Of Time vs. Thunderstruck II
Another comparison that makes sense in the Philippine market is with Thunderstruck II, one of Microgaming’s most famous slots. While both come from the same provider, their playstyle and target audience differ.
- Theme & Atmosphere: Thunderstruck II dives into Norse mythology, focusing on gods like Thor and Loki. Shogun Of Time instead brings in a futuristic samurai vibe that feels more modern and relatable for players who enjoy Asian-inspired design.
- Features: Thunderstruck II shines with its multi-level Great Hall of Spins, where each god grants different bonuses. Shogun Of Time takes a simpler but punchier route — fewer features, but they activate more often.
- Volatility: Thunderstruck II is slightly higher on the volatility scale, rewarding patience with bigger payouts, whereas Shogun Of Time sits comfortably in the medium range.
- Player Fit: If you like layered bonuses and mythological themes, Thunderstruck II delivers. But if you prefer a game where bonus rounds come around sooner, Shogun Of Time feels more rewarding.
Philippine Market Insights
Peso Betting and Bankroll Perspective
One thing that stands out for Filipino players is the flexible bet range of Shogun Of Time. With bets starting as low as the equivalent of ₱5 per spin, it’s accessible for casual players who just want light entertainment. At the same time, the option to wager up to ₱5,000 per spin caters to high rollers.
That range makes it practical to adapt your bankroll strategy:
- Budget players: Keep spins at ₱5–₱20 to stretch gameplay across long sessions.
- Mid-level players: ₱50–₱100 bets can still feel affordable while keeping potential winnings meaningful.
- High rollers: Those who want adrenaline rushes may bet ₱500–₱5,000, knowing a max payout could reach hundreds of thousands of pesos.
It’s this balance that makes the slot flexible enough for different lifestyles — whether someone is spinning casually after work or chasing larger returns.
Availability and Casino Reliability
Shogun Of Time is frequently available in regulated online casinos serving the Philippine market. When choosing a platform, Filipino players often prioritize instant deposits and withdrawals with no fees, which ensure winnings are received smoothly.
Example: A player from Davao mentioned how quick cash-outs encouraged him to stick with the same operator, because he never had to worry about delays or hidden charges.
One reputable operator offering Microgaming titles is FB777, a brand known among locals for its straightforward transactions and game variety.
Mobile Experience in Local Conditions
Internet speeds in parts of the Philippines can vary, especially in provinces. Because Shogun Of Time is built with HTML5, the slot runs smoothly even when signal strength fluctuates. On devices like mid-range Android phones, the graphics maintain clarity without draining too much battery.
This mobile optimization means players can enjoy the slot while commuting on MRT rides in Metro Manila or during weekend trips outside the city, without worrying about lag ruining a bonus round.
Tips to Enhance Your Session
Playing Shogun Of Time isn’t only about hitting jackpots. Filipino players often enjoy the process of spinning, watching themes unfold, and feeling entertained even during average rounds. A few practical tips can make the experience better:
- Test in demo mode first – before committing peso bets, try the demo version to see how often features trigger.
- Set a session budget – decide how much you’re comfortable spending, whether ₱500 for light fun or ₱5,000 for extended play.
- Aim for feature triggers – the big value comes from the Reel Split Re-Spin and free spins, not just the base game.
- Use casino bonuses wisely – some operators provide free spins or matched deposits that can give you extra rounds without spending more.
- Play when relaxed – this is entertainment; the enjoyment comes from the time spent, not just the payout.
Verdict: Is Shogun Of Time Worth Playing?
For Filipino players seeking a balance between creativity and accessibility, Shogun Of Time by Microgaming feels like a solid choice. It doesn’t overwhelm with complex mechanics, yet it offers enough depth to keep sessions engaging. The hybrid 4-reel/5-reel setup adds a sense of variety, while the free spins and Reel Split Re-Spin create moments of excitement.
Where it might fall short is for players chasing progressive jackpots. If your goal is to hit a multi-million peso payout in one spin, slots like Mega Moolah remain the better option. But for those who want balanced play with a unique visual style, Shogun Of Time provides satisfying entertainment across both desktop and mobile.
Final Thoughts
Shogun Of Time strikes a rare balance in the slot world: it combines futuristic cyberpunk flair with traditional Japanese elements, then delivers features that activate often enough to keep things lively. For players in the Philippines — whether casual spinners or seasoned enthusiasts — this title proves that a slot doesn’t need a progressive jackpot to keep you engaged.