Cubes 2 (Hacksaw Gaming) Slot Review

Cubes 2: Slot Overview

Hacksaw Gaming returns with a sequel to its fan-favorite Cubes, taking the grid-based gaming experience to the next level with Cubes 2. This sequel maintains the same minimalist yet engaging aesthetic of its predecessor while introducing several gameplay enhancements and features to keep players intrigued. Cubes 2 operates on a 5×5 grid, which can expand to a massive 11×11, offering significant opportunities for cluster wins. With its Cluster Pays mechanic, 96.33% RTP, and high volatility, this slot provides a modern twist on traditional gameplay. The maximum potential win of 11,000x your bet and unique bonus features make it one of Hacksaw Gaming’s standout titles. 

With a design philosophy catered to both mobile and desktop users, Cubes 2 provides an accessible yet highly dynamic experience. Let’s delve deeper into its design, mechanics, and bonus features. 

Design and Graphics

The first impression of Cubes 2 is its simple, minimalist style. The grid features brightly colored squares that pop against the darker background, making it easy for players to focus on gameplay without unnecessary distractions. The 5×5 starting grid provides an organized and compact appearance, which expands dynamically with consecutive wins, creating an exciting visual progression. 

Compared to its predecessor, Cubes 2 refines its design with subtle improvements, including better animations and a more vibrant color palette. The inclusion of the corner “X” multipliers is a clever visual cue that ties directly into gameplay, emphasizing their importance during winning combinations. While the simplicity might not appeal to fans of more graphically intense slots, it fits the pocket-friendly, streamlined aesthetic Hacksaw Gaming is known for. 

Gameplay Mechanics

Cubes 2 maintains its Cluster Pays mechanic, where players win by forming clusters of five or more adjacent matching symbols. Consecutive wins expand the grid by one row and column per spin, transforming it from a 5×5 grid to a 7×7, eventually reaching its maximum size of 11×11. The grid resets to its original size after a non-winning spin unless you trigger bonus features, where the expanded size becomes sticky. 

A significant gameplay twist in Cubes 2 is the introduction of Corner Multipliers. Clusters that connect to one of the four “X” symbols at the corners of the grid activate multipliers. These multipliers are equal to the number of squares in the winning cluster and are combined if multiple corners are involved in the win. This mechanic adds a layer of strategy and anticipation, as players eagerly watch for clusters near the corners. 

Sound and Music

The soundtrack of Cubes 2 is a soothing mix of chill beats and subtle melodies, creating a relaxing yet engaging atmosphere. It matches the minimalistic visual theme and provides a pleasant backdrop for extended gaming sessions. However, the music dynamically changes during bonus rounds, building excitement as the stakes rise. Sound effects, like the satisfying “pop” of winning clusters, add to the sensory appeal without becoming overly intrusive. Overall, the audio complements the gameplay seamlessly, enhancing the overall experience. 

Bonus Features

Cubes 2 introduces several bonus features that elevate its gameplay beyond the original: 

Corner Multipliers: 

These are activated when a cluster touches one of the four corner “X” symbols. The multiplier is equal to the number of cubes in the winning cluster and is applied to the total win. If multiple corners are involved, their multipliers are combined for even larger rewards. 

Free Spins: 

Triggered by landing five clusters of different colors in a single spin sequence. Once activated, players pick cubes to determine the number of free spins and the chosen sticky color. During free spins, clusters of the chosen color become sticky, and the grid does not reset between spins. This feature increases the likelihood of massive cluster payouts and grid expansions. 

Multi-Color Free Spins:

A variation of the standard free spins, this mode activates when all four corners of the grid display the same color. Here, players pick cubes to determine the sticky colors, and clusters of these colors remain sticky throughout the feature. 

Color Blast:

A rare but highly rewarding feature during free spins. If players manage to land clusters of 50, 70, or 90 sticky cubes in the chosen color, they are awarded instant payouts of 500x, 2,500x, or 7,000x the bet, respectively. This feature is the game’s primary pathway to its 11,000x maximum win. 

Bonus Buy Options: 

For players eager to jump straight into the action, Cubes 2 offers two bonus buy options: 

Multi-Color Free Spins: Costs 109x the total bet. 

Regular Free Spins: Costs 129x the total bet. 

These options are convenient for players who prefer high-risk, high-reward gameplay and want to bypass standard spins. 

Betting Options and Payouts

Cubes 2 offers a wide betting range, accommodating both casual players and high rollers. Bets start at €0.20 and go up to €100 per spin, making it accessible to a variety of budgets. The slot’s high volatility means wins may not occur frequently, but when they do, they can be substantial, especially with the inclusion of corner multipliers and sticky free spins. 

The paytable remains straightforward, featuring six colored square symbols, each with equal value. Clusters of five symbols pay 0.1x the bet, while clusters of 25 or more pay 40x the bet. While these base game payouts might seem modest, the potential for multipliers and grid expansions significantly enhances the overall win potential. 

Conclusion

Cubes 2 is a masterclass in minimalist slot design, proving that simplicity can be highly engaging when paired with innovative mechanics. Hacksaw Gaming has successfully retained the charm of the original Cubes while introducing enough new features to make the sequel feel fresh and exciting. The Corner Multipliers and Color Blast features are standout additions, adding depth and a sense of strategy to the gameplay. 

While the slot’s high volatility and modest base game payouts might deter risk-averse players, its potential for massive wins—especially during bonus rounds—makes it a thrilling choice for those seeking high-stakes entertainment. The 11,000x max win, though rare, offers tantalizing potential for players willing to take on the game’s challenges. 

In summary, Cubes 2 is a worthy sequel that refines and expands upon its predecessor’s strengths. Whether you’re a fan of grid-based slots or simply looking for a unique gaming experience, Cubes 2 delivers a captivating blend of simplicity, strategy, and high reward potential.