Our review of Sun Chief cuts through the marketing and looks at what matters: how it plays and how it pays. This is a Ainsworth game, sitting firmly in the very high variance bracket and paying back an RTP of 94.06%. Dating back to 2017, it remains a regular pick. It's finished with a clean, modern look and plays out on 25 paylines across 5 reels. If everything lines up, Sun Chief can pay up to 150,000x your bet. So does it deliver? Let's get into it.
Written by Daniel Chen · Last updated: February 2026
At its core, Sun Chief is a title produced by Ainsworth, given an engaging visual treatment. It runs on a 5-reel grid running 25 paylines with a very high volatility profile, and 94.06% RTP.
Dig into the bonuses and Sun Chief starts to stand out. Look out for scatter symbols that unlock free spins and extra bonus rounds. The very high volatility means patience is rewarded — expect quiet spells broken by bigger hits. Overall it's a straightforward title that knows what it is.
The RTP of 94.06% is below the industry average of ~96%. This is common for older slots or those with special features. The lower RTP may be offset by unique mechanics or higher maximum win potential.
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.
Sun Chief 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.
2.5 / 5 — Average
Sun Chief by Ainsworth provides a straightforward slot experience. While it may not break new ground, it offers very high volatility gameplay that will appeal to certain player preferences.