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What Is a Wild Symbol in Slots?
A wild is a slot symbol that substitutes for other symbols to help form winning combinations — a bit like a joker in cards. It's one of the most common ways slots create extra wins.
How wilds work
If a wild lands where a particular symbol would complete a win, it stands in for that symbol. So two matching symbols plus a wild can pay as three of a kind. Wilds usually substitute for all regular symbols, but typically not scatters.
Types of wild
- Expanding wild: grows to fill a whole reel.
- Sticky wild: stays in place for several spins.
- Stacked wild: appears stacked on top of itself on a reel.
- Walking wild: moves across the reels each spin.
Wild vs scatter
A wild completes wins by substitution; a scatter triggers features regardless of position. They're different tools. See what a scatter symbol is and slot paylines for the full picture.
Frequently asked questions
What is a wild symbol?
A symbol that substitutes for others to help form winning combinations.
Are there different types?
Yes — expanding, sticky, stacked and walking wilds all behave differently.
Does a wild replace scatters?
Usually not — wilds typically don't substitute for scatter symbols.
Related guides: what a scatter symbol is, how slot paylines work and Megaways slots.