The Legend of Nezha Introduction
Gameplay Interactive is known for the quality of its games, but in The Legend of Nezha the firm has hit on something very special. Drawing on Chinese folklore for the character of Nezha, the ‘Marshall of the Central Altar’ and conqueror of the seas, this protection deity hovers at the side of the screen to help you conquer the raging storm that lies behind the reels.
Chinese themed pokies are always popular, but Gameplay Interactive has created something quite unique in the world of free pokies.
Theme
Although the Nezha theme itself may be a little esoteric, not being acquainted with this mythical figure doesn’t hinder your enjoyment of the game at all. The whole environment is superbly rendered for a really immersive experience - the sky flashes with lightning, the sea roars, and above it all float the reels of fortune.
There’s real attention to detail in the animations and the beautifully detailed game environment, which is gorgeous to look at. The gameplay symbols also perfectly integrate into the theme - there’s no reliance on card symbols, as in so many other pokies, which makes a nice change.
Format
Played over 5 reels and 30 paylines, line bets range from 0.5 to 40 credits per line, so this isn’t a game for the fainthearted among you. The minimum wager per spin is fixed at a pretty hefty 1.5 credits all the way up to 1,200 credits a spin. High rollers will enjoy the opportunity to stake big, though.
Paytable
These are the maximum full house paytable rewards available in Legend of Nezha: Temple: 50x Gold necklace: 75x Red ribbon: 100x Colourful circlet: 125x Spear: 150x Ring of fire, Lotus Blossom: 300x Nezha: 400x
Fiery dragon free spins
Hit 3 or more of these fiery mythical beasts and you’ll be rewarded with 4 free spins. These can’t be retriggered, so it doesn’t seem too generous at first - until you encounter the expanding wilds that rotate across reels 2, 3 and 4 then back again. These substitute for every symbol except yin and yang and the battle bonus.
Battle of the Sea Dragon bonus
Now things get different and very interesting. Drawing on the Nezha myth, you’ll enter this bonus game when you spin 3 of the battle bonus symbols. This is a clever spin in the pick and win game - simply pick points on the dragon to battle him and you’ll be rewarded with a prize for each successful attack.
The Taiji Palace bonus round
When 3 or more yin and yang symbols appear anywhere on your reels, you’ll enter another pick a prize bonus. This time you’ll help Nezha pick his weapons for the battle and you’ll be rewarded accordingly with instant prizes.
Our Verdict
Although base play is not as rewarding as some games, the bonus features make this game highly playable, with big rewards. The fact that it looks great and highlights lesser known aspects of Chinese culture is another big bonus in our eyes, making this a definite must play.