Forge of Gems (Play'n Go) Slot Review

Forge of Gems: Slot Overview 

Forge of Gems is the fourth installment in Play’n GO’s gem-themed slot series, following titles like Perfect Gems, Frozen Gems, and Prism of Gems. While the slot keeps the core gem-based mechanics intact, it introduces a Forge Reel—a special modifier reel that enhances gameplay with splitting symbols, wilds, and multipliers. The game features a 5×3 base grid but can expand, unlocking up to 36,288 ways to win when certain modifiers come into play. 

Unlike traditional gem-themed slots that focus on dazzling graphics and simple mechanics, Forge of Gems adds a unique industrial spin to the theme. The setting is inspired by a gem-forging factory, where raw stones are refined into high-value jewels. The addition of cascading wins, an evolving win multiplier, and wild modifiers makes this slot significantly more complex than a typical gem-based game. 

With high volatility and a maximum win potential of 20,000x the bet, Forge of Gems is designed for risk-taking players who enjoy dynamic gameplay and substantial rewards. The RTP varies, with 96.2% being the highest available configuration. 

Design and Graphics 

The visuals of Forge of Gems are sleek but not overly flashy. While many Play’n GO slots boast vibrant, over-the-top graphics, this title maintains a more subdued industrial aesthetic. The game grid is framed by mechanical structures that resemble a gemstone refinery, reinforcing the theme of crafting gems rather than just showcasing them. The color palette consists of deep blues, metallic silvers, and glowing gemstones, giving the game a high-tech, futuristic feel. Animations are smooth, particularly during the Forge Reel activations, where special symbols descend from the upper reel, modifying the gameplay. 

The symbols include a mix of classic playing card icons (10, J, Q, K, A) and premium gemstones, which are meticulously detailed to give them a refined, polished look. Diamond symbols serve as wilds, and a red jewel scatter triggers the game’s main bonus feature. 

Gameplay Mechanics 

Forge of Gems is built on a 5×3 base grid, but the number of winning ways expands thanks to the Forge Reel, which adds splitter symbols, multipliers, and additional wilds. Instead of traditional paylines, the game utilizes ways to win, starting at 243 and expanding up to a maximum of 36,288. 

Cascading Wins 

Each winning combination triggers the cascade mechanic, removing winning symbols and allowing new symbols to drop in, potentially leading to consecutive wins. This resets the board dynamically, keeping the action fast-paced. 

Forge Reel Modifiers 

Above the main grid, the Forge Reel introduces powerful modifiers whenever a cascade is triggered. The special symbols that drop from the Forge Reel include: 

Multiplier: Increases the win multiplier by +1 (resets between base game spins). 

Vertical Wild: Turns all symbols in a column into wilds. 

Horizontal Wild: Converts all symbols in a row into wilds. 

Vertical Splitter: Splits all symbols on its column, increasing ways to win. 

Horizontal Splitter: Splits symbols on its row and acts as a wild. 

Blank Symbols: These serve no function and are removed during cascades. 

This layered gameplay ensures constant unpredictability, making Forge of Gems feel more interactive than a standard slot. 

Sound and Music 

Forge of Gems comes with an intense, industrial-style soundtrack, which fits its factory-inspired theme. Unlike the soothing, magical soundscapes of other gem-themed slots, this game features a mechanical hum, rhythmic metallic clinks, and occasional bursts of energy whenever cascades occur. 

The Forge Reel activation is accompanied by a satisfying sound effect, emphasizing its impact. The free spins round also includes a slightly more dramatic soundtrack, enhancing the sense of high stakes during bonus rounds. 

Bonus Features 

Cascading Wins & Multiplier System 

Each win removes symbols and replaces them, with multipliers increasing via the Forge Reel. This feature is present in both the base game and free spins. Gembox Free Spins 

The scatter symbol is represented by a red jewel, and landing three or more scatters triggers free spins. The number of spins is determined by the number of scatters: 

3 scatters – 8 or 10 free spins (20x bet payout) 

4 scatters – 10 or 15 free spins (30x bet payout) 

5 scatters – 15 or 20 free spins (40x bet payout) 

During Gembox Free Spins, the win multiplier does not reset, making it significantly easier to build up large payouts. However, the feature cannot be retriggered. 

Betting Options and Payouts 

Min Bet: €0.10 

Max Bet: €100 

RTP: 96.2% (varies by casino) 

Volatility: High (10/10) 

Max Win: 20,000x the bet 

The payout potential in Forge of Gems is massive. The highest-paying symbols (gems) can deliver up to 3x the bet per five-symbol win, but multipliers and splitters significantly increase this amount. The bonus round, with its persistent multiplier, is the best opportunity for hitting major wins. 

Conclusion 

Forge of Gems is a visually polished, mechanically engaging slot that adds an industrial twist to Play’n GO’s gem-themed series. While it lacks the warmth or charm of similar gemstone slots, its fast-paced gameplay, Forge Reel modifiers, and persistent multipliers make it a thrilling experience. 

Pros: 

✅ Exciting Cascade Mechanics – Consecutive wins lead to massive payouts. 

✅ Forge Reel Enhancements – Introduces splitter symbols, wilds, and multipliers. 

✅ High Maximum Win (20,000x) – One of Play’n GO’s most rewarding slots. 

✅ Persistent Multipliers in Free Spins – Ensures huge potential payouts. 

✅ Flexible Betting Options – Suitable for casual and high-stakes players. 

Cons: 

❌ High Volatility – Wins can be infrequent, requiring a big bankroll. 

❌ No Retriggers in Free Spins – Limits the length of bonus rounds. 

❌ Generic Theme Execution – Lacks the personality of Play’n GO’s more imaginative slots. 

Final Verdict 

Forge of Gems is a fantastic option for players who love high-volatility slots with intricate gameplay mechanics. Its Forge Reel system, win multipliers, and ways-to-win expansion keep the gameplay fresh, making it a top-tier choice for thrill-seekers. While not Play’n GO’s most creative title, it offers huge win potential and an engaging experience, making it one of the standout releases in the Gems series.