If you're trying to work out whether Release the Kraken is worth your time, this hands-on review breaks it down. Built by Pragmatic Play, it lands as a slot with a very high-variance maths model and an RTP of 96.24%. Visually it's built with crisp artwork and atmosphere, with the action running on 5 reels and 10 paylines. If everything lines up, Release the Kraken can pay up to 100,000x your bet. But is it actually worth playing? Read on.
Written by James Holloway · Last updated: March 2026
Release the Kraken is a slot from Pragmatic Play, built with crisp artwork and atmosphere. It runs on 5 reels and 10 paylines with a very high volatility profile, and 96.24% RTP.
Dig into the bonuses and Release the Kraken starts to stand out. Look out for scatter symbols that unlock free spins and extra bonus rounds. With very high variance, this one is aimed at players who can ride out the swings for the top wins. Overall it's a well-rounded slot that knows what it is.
The RTP of 96.24% is right around the industry average of ~96%. This represents a fair return that's in line with what most modern slots offer.
Very high volatility delivers the most extreme payout profile — long dry spells punctuated by potentially massive wins. Only recommended for experienced players with substantial bankrolls and high risk tolerance.
About 1 in 3 spins results in a win. This is a moderate hit frequency that balances win frequency with payout size.
Release the Kraken 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.
3.0 / 5 — Good
Release the Kraken by Pragmatic Play is a solid offering that delivers good entertainment value. The 96.24% RTP combined with very high volatility creates a well-balanced gaming experience.