Part I: Games & Gaming · Slot Machines & Electronic Gaming

Sticky Wild

Slot Mechanics

A wild symbol that remains locked in its position for multiple spins, rather than being cleared with each new spin. Sticky wilds are most commonly found during free spins bonus rounds, where they accumulate over the course of the bonus, progressively increasing win potential. Some games feature sticky wilds in the base game that persist for a set number of spins or until a bonus feature triggers. The presence of sticky wilds dramatically increases a game’s potential for large bonus-round payouts and is a key driver of player preference for certain titles.

In practice

Also called “frozen wilds” or “locked wilds” in some game documentation. The accumulation of sticky wilds during free spins can create “full screen” wild scenarios with enormous payouts.

One entry from the Casino Industry Glossary — 1,157 terms written for surveillance, compliance and operations professionals rather than for players. Definitions describe industry usage; where a term carries a regulatory meaning, verify against the instrument that governs your jurisdiction.