Starburst is arguably the most recognisable slot game in the online casino world. Released by NetEnt in 2012, this vibrant, space-themed slot has become synonymous with online gambling itself, featured in countless casino promotions and serving as many players’ introduction to online slots.
This comprehensive review examines what makes Starburst so enduringly popular, its gameplay mechanics, special features, RTP, volatility, and whether it deserves its legendary status over a decade after release.
Game Overview
Developer: NetEnt
Release Year: 2012
Theme: Space / Gems
Reels: 5
Rows: 3
Paylines: 10 (fixed, pays both ways)
RTP: 96.09%
Volatility: Low
Maximum Win: 50,000 coins
Minimum Bet: £0.10
Maximum Bet: £100
Theme and Design
Starburst features a cosmic, jewel-themed aesthetic that was revolutionary for its time and remains visually appealing today.
Visual Presentation
Background: A purple-and-black starfield creates the impression of deep space, with gentle stellar animations providing subtle movement without distraction.
Symbols: Brightly coloured gemstones (reminiscent of arcade puzzle games) and classic BAR symbols combine modern and traditional slot iconography:
- Purple gems
- Blue gems
- Orange gems
- Green gems
- Yellow gems
- BAR symbols (in three colours)
- Lucky 7s
Special Symbol: The Starburst Wild is a prismatic, rainbow-coloured star burst that explodes across the screen when landing.
Colour Palette: Vibrant, saturated colours create a cheerful, energetic atmosphere distinct from many darker or more serious slot themes.
Sound Design
Background Music: A serene, ambient electronic soundtrack creates a relaxing atmosphere without becoming repetitive or intrusive.
Win Sounds: Satisfying chimes and sparkle effects accompany wins, with the intensity increasing for larger payouts.
Special Feature Sounds: The Starburst Wild triggers a distinctive, triumphant sound effect that builds anticipation during the expanding wild and re-spin sequence.
Overall: The audio design is understated and pleasant, contributing to Starburst’s reputation as a relaxing, stress-free slot experience.
How to Play
Starburst is exceptionally straightforward, making it ideal for beginners whilst still engaging experienced players.
Basic Gameplay
1. Set Your Bet: Use the coin value and bet level controls to set your total stake per spin (£0.10 to £100)
2. Spin: Click the circular spin button or use spacebar (on desktop) to initiate a spin
3. Autoplay: Set the game to spin automatically for a chosen number of rounds (10, 25, 50, 100, or custom)
4. Win Evaluation: After each spin, the game evaluates all paylines from left to right AND right to left (both ways wins)
Betting Options
Coin Value: Adjustable from £0.01 to £1
Bet Level: 1 to 10
Total Bet Calculation: Coin value × Bet level × 10 paylines
Example:
- Coin value: £0.10
- Bet level: 5
- Total bet: £0.10 × 5 × 10 = £5 per spin
Paytable
Starburst uses a dynamic paytable that adjusts based on your bet level, displaying wins in coins at your current settings.
High-Value Symbols (three or more):
- BAR (Purple): 250 coins for 5 of a kind
- BAR (Red): 250 coins for 5 of a kind
- BAR (Yellow): 250 coins for 5 of a kind
- Lucky 7: 120 coins for 5 of a kind
Low-Value Symbols (three or more):
- Purple Gem: 60 coins for 5 of a kind
- Blue Gem: 50 coins for 5 of a kind
- Orange Gem: 50 coins for 5 of a kind
- Green Gem: 40 coins for 5 of a kind
- Yellow Gem: 40 coins for 5 of a kind
Note: Wins pay from both left-to-right AND right-to-left, effectively doubling win opportunities compared to traditional single-direction slots.
Special Features
Despite its simplicity, Starburst’s key feature is highly effective and responsible for much of the game’s appeal.
Win Both Ways
Unlike traditional slots that only pay from left to right, Starburst pays winning combinations from both directions. This means:
- A combination of three purple gems starting from reel 1 pays
- A combination of three purple gems starting from reel 5 also pays
- This effectively doubles your chances of forming winning combinations
Starburst Wild
The rainbow-coloured Starburst symbol is the game’s Wild and its signature feature.
Appearance: Appears only on reels 2, 3, and 4 (the three middle reels)
Expanding Wild: When a Starburst Wild lands, it expands to cover the entire reel, substituting for all other symbols
Re-Spins: After a Starburst Wild expands, you receive a free re-spin with the wild held in place
Multiple Wilds: If another Starburst Wild appears during the re-spin (on a different middle reel), it also expands and awards another re-spin
Maximum Potential: You can get up to three Starburst Wilds (covering reels 2, 3, and 4 entirely), leading to three re-spins total
Payout Evaluation: After all re-spins complete, all paylines are evaluated with the expanded wilds in place
Strategic Significance: This feature is Starburst’s entire bonus mechanism. There are no free spins rounds, bonus games, or additional features beyond the expanding wild re-spins.
RTP and Volatility
Understanding Starburst’s mathematics helps set appropriate expectations.
Return to Player (RTP)
RTP: 96.09%
This is slightly below the current industry average of 96-97% but was standard when Starburst released. It means:
- For every £100 wagered over a very long period, the game returns approximately £96.09 to players
- The house edge is 3.91%
- This is theoretical return over millions of spins; individual sessions will vary dramatically
Volatility
Volatility: Low
Starburst is classified as a low volatility (or low variance) slot, which means:
Frequent Wins: You’ll hit winning combinations regularly, often multiple times within 10-20 spins
Smaller Win Amounts: Individual wins tend to be modest, typically 0.5x to 5x your bet
Steady Gameplay: Your bankroll depletes relatively slowly during losing streaks
Lower Maximum Wins: The maximum win (50,000 coins or 500x bet) is modest compared to high volatility slots that can pay 10,000x or more
Ideal For: Players who prefer longer sessions with consistent action rather than chasing massive jackpots
Maximum Win Potential
Maximum Win: 50,000 coins
At maximum bet level and coin value, this translates to approximately £50,000. However, at typical bet sizes:
- £1 bet: Maximum win approximately £500
- £5 bet: Maximum win approximately £2,500
- £10 bet: Maximum win approximately £5,000
Comparison: This maximum win is significantly lower than modern high-volatility slots (some offer 50,000x+ potential), but aligns with Starburst’s low-volatility profile.
Hit Frequency: Starburst’s low volatility means you’ll hit smaller wins frequently, but massive wins are extremely rare.
Why Starburst Is So Popular
Despite being over a decade old and featuring relatively simple mechanics, Starburst remains one of the most played slots globally. Several factors explain this enduring popularity.
Simplicity and Accessibility
No Complicated Features: Unlike modern slots with multiple bonus rounds, pick-and-click games, and complex mechanics, Starburst is immediately understandable
Minimal Learning Curve: New players can grasp the game within seconds
Low Stress: The simple structure and steady pacing create a relaxing experience
Universal Appeal: The straightforward gameplay appeals to both novices and veterans who appreciate elegance over complexity
Visual and Audio Excellence
Timeless Aesthetics: The vibrant gem theme and space background haven’t aged poorly like some dated slot designs
Polish: NetEnt’s production quality ensures smooth animations, crisp graphics, and refined sound design
Pleasant Experience: The combination of visuals and audio creates an enjoyable sensory experience without being overwhelming
Low Volatility Appeal
Extended Play: Low volatility means your bankroll lasts longer, providing more entertainment per pound spent
Frequent Action: Regular small wins maintain engagement and excitement
Less Intimidating: New players aren’t quickly depleted by long dry spells
Budget-Friendly: The betting range accommodates small budgets effectively
Marketing and Brand Recognition
Promotional Tool: Nearly every UK online casino has used Starburst free spins as a promotional offer at some point
Name Recognition: The game’s omnipresence in marketing has made it synonymous with online slots
First Experience: Many players’ first online slot experience is Starburst through welcome bonuses
Trust Factor: The game’s reputation and longevity create trust among players
Both-Ways Wins
Doubled Opportunities: Paying from both directions effectively doubles hit frequency compared to standard slots
Perceived Value: Players appreciate the psychological boost of having two chances to hit winning combinations
Differentiation: This feature distinguished Starburst from competitors when it released and remains relatively uncommon
Criticisms and Limitations
Despite its success, Starburst isn’t without detractors and limitations.
Limited Maximum Win
Low Ceiling: The 500x maximum win pales compared to modern slots offering 10,000x, 50,000x, or even unlimited potential
Unfavourable for High-Rollers: Players seeking massive wins will find Starburst disappointing
No Jackpots: Unlike slots with progressive jackpots, Starburst offers no path to six-figure wins
Basic Feature Set
Single Feature: The expanding wild re-spin is Starburst’s only feature, with no free spins, bonus games, or multipliers beyond the wilds
Repetitive Gameplay: Some players find the lack of variety monotonous over extended sessions
No Bonus Rounds: Modern slot players accustomed to elaborate bonus features may find Starburst underwhelming
Below-Average RTP
96.09% RTP: Whilst not terrible, numerous slots offer 96.5-97%+ RTP, providing better long-term value
Opportunity Cost: Money wagered on Starburst could theoretically be wagered on higher-RTP games
Age
2012 Release: Over a decade old, which shows in certain design elements compared to cutting-edge modern releases
Dated Feel: Some players view Starburst as outdated compared to feature-rich contemporary slots
Modern Alternatives: Numerous newer slots offer similar low-volatility gameplay with additional features
Who Should Play Starburst?
Starburst suits specific player profiles better than others.
Ideal Players
Beginners: The simplicity and low volatility make it perfect for learning online slots
Casual Players: Those seeking relaxing, low-stress entertainment without chasing big wins
Low-Budget Players: The low volatility stretches small bankrolls effectively
Bonus Users: Free spins bonuses are often on Starburst, making familiarity valuable
Nostalgic Players: Those who enjoy classic, straightforward slot experiences
May Not Suit
High-Rollers: The low maximum win and modest volatility may not provide the thrill sought
Feature Hunters: Players who love bonus rounds, free spins, and complex mechanics will find it too basic
Jackpot Chasers: No progressive or large win potential for those seeking life-changing payouts
Variety Seekers: The gameplay can feel repetitive for players who need constant novelty
Tips for Playing Starburst
Bankroll Management
Set Session Limits: Decide in advance how much you’ll spend and stick to it
Adjust Bet Sizes: Use the bet level controls to match your bankroll; £0.10-£1 spins can last a long time
Take Advantage of Low Volatility: Your bankroll should last well on Starburst compared to high-volatility slots
Maximise Value
Use Welcome Bonuses: Starburst free spins are ubiquitous; take advantage of them
Understand Wagering Requirements: Know the terms before using bonus spins
Try Free Play: Most casinos offer Starburst in demo mode; try it risk-free first
Set Realistic Expectations
Small, Frequent Wins: Expect modest wins regularly, not massive jackpots
Entertainment Focus: View the game as entertainment, not income opportunity
Accept the RTP: Understand you’ll lose approximately £4 per £100 wagered over time
Game Settings
Autoplay: Useful for consistent betting without manual clicking, but set loss limits
Quick Spin: Enable for faster gameplay if you prefer
Sound Options: Adjust or mute sound to suit your preference
Starburst vs. Similar Slots
How does Starburst compare to alternatives?
Starburst vs. Twin Spin (NetEnt)
Similarities: Both are NetEnt low-volatility classics with simple mechanics
Differences:
- Twin Spin has 5 reels and 243 ways to win
- Twin Spin features twin reels that spin identically
- Twin Spin offers slightly higher RTP (96.55%)
Verdict: Twin Spin offers more variety whilst maintaining similar low-volatility gameplay
Starburst vs. Finn and the Swirly Spin (NetEnt)
Similarities: Both are NetEnt slots with distinctive mechanics
Differences:
- Finn uses a cluster-pays system instead of paylines
- Finn has multiple features and higher volatility
- Finn offers more complexity
Verdict: Finn suits players wanting more features; Starburst suits those wanting simplicity
Starburst vs. Book of Dead (Play’n GO)
Similarities: Both are iconic slots featured heavily in promotions
Differences:
- Book of Dead is medium-high volatility
- Book of Dead has free spins with expanding symbols
- Book of Dead offers much higher maximum wins (5,000x)
Verdict: Entirely different experiences; Book of Dead for thrill-seekers, Starburst for steady gameplay
Conclusion
Starburst’s enduring popularity over a decade after release speaks to its fundamental design excellence. It succeeds by doing a few things exceptionally well rather than attempting to be everything to everyone.
Strengths:
- Simple, accessible gameplay perfect for beginners
- Pleasant visual and audio presentation that hasn’t aged poorly
- Low volatility provides extended play and frequent wins
- Smooth performance across all devices
- Wide availability across virtually all UK online casinos
- Both-ways wins add excitement and hit frequency
Weaknesses:
- Limited maximum win potential (500x)
- Basic feature set may bore players seeking complexity
- Slightly below-average RTP (96.09%)
- Age shows compared to cutting-edge modern releases
Overall Verdict: Starburst deserves respect as a well-crafted, elegant slot that knows exactly what it is and executes its vision perfectly. It’s not trying to compete with feature-rich modern slots or offer massive jackpot potential. Instead, it provides reliable, pleasant, low-stakes entertainment that appeals to a broad audience.
For beginners, Starburst remains an excellent introduction to online slots. For veterans, it’s a comforting classic when you want relaxed gameplay without complexity. For everyone, it’s a reminder that sometimes simplicity, executed well, trumps innovation and complexity.
If you value steady action, pretty visuals, and straightforward gameplay, Starburst delivers. If you chase big wins, complex bonus rounds, or cutting-edge features, look elsewhere. Either position is valid – it depends entirely on what you seek from your slot experience.
More than a decade after release, Starburst remains relevant not through revolutionary features or massive win potential, but through timeless design, accessibility, and reliability. That’s a testament to NetEnt’s original vision and execution.
Play Starburst at UK-licensed casinos only. Always gamble responsibly.
For support: National Gambling Helpline 0808 8020 133 (24/7)