If you're trying to work out whether Dark Summoning is worth your time, this hands-on review breaks it down. Developed by Hacksaw Gaming, Dark Summoning arrives with a medium high-variance maths model and a published RTP of 95.18%. Originally released in 2023, it has aged well. The maximum win sits at 10,666x, so there's serious upside on the table. It's themed around horror and plays out on 40 paylines across 5 reels. The full verdict is below.
Written by Michael Torres · Last updated: January 2026
Dark Summoning comes to us from Hacksaw Gaming, dressed up with a horror theme and powered by a 5-reel grid running 40 paylines. The result is a medium high volatility profile paired with 95.18% RTP.
The mechanics are what make Dark Summoning interesting. Look out for scatter symbols that unlock free spins and extra bonus rounds. The medium high volatility strikes a middle ground that should suit most playing styles. On balance, Dark Summoning is a no-frills option worth a few spins in the demo first.
At 95.18%, the RTP is slightly below the industry average of ~96%. While this is typical for many popular slots, players should be aware of the slightly lower theoretical return.
Medium-high volatility means wins come less frequently but tend to be larger when they hit. Players should be prepared for dry spells between bigger wins, requiring a moderate bankroll.
At approximately 1 in 10 spins, wins are infrequent. However, when wins do occur, they tend to be considerably larger to compensate.
Dark Summoning features scatter symbols that can trigger free spins rounds. Landing the required number of scatter symbols anywhere on the reels activates the free spins feature, giving you extra chances to win without additional bets. During free spins, special modifiers may apply to boost your winning potential.
0.5 / 5 — Below Average
Dark Summoning by Hacksaw Gaming provides a straightforward slot experience. While it may not break new ground, it offers medium high volatility gameplay that will appeal to certain player preferences.