What Are Sticky Symbols in Slots and How to Use Them?

Article by : Andrej Trajkovski Mar 3, 2025

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Updated: Apr 13, 2025

You don’t hear about sticky symbols that often, and not every slot has them. Honestly, the best word to describe sticky symbols is sneaky. These clever little icons are showing up more and more in modern slots, and they make the game more fun. In this guide, I’ll break down what sticky symbols are, how they work, and how you can use them to level up your game.

What Are Sticky Symbols?

Sticky symbols are special slot symbols that don’t disappear after just one spin like regular ones. Instead, they stick to the reels for a few spins, giving you extra chances to win — hence the name “sticky.” While standard symbols appear and vanish every time you spin, sticky ones stay in place, often helping you build winning combos. You’ll usually see them during free spins or bonus rounds — that’s when they shine (as if free spins weren’t gripping enough already).

How Do Sticky Symbols Work?

When one of these symbols lands on the reel, it stays there for a few spins — sometimes two, sometimes until the bonus round ends. That sticking power gives you more chances to line up wins across the paylines. The longer it stays, the better your chances.

For example, in Gonzo’s Quest by NetEnt, sticky symbols can appear during the Avalanche feature — they stick in place while new ones fall from above. In Dead or Alive, also by NetEnt, sticky wilds stay on the reels during free spins and can lead to big payouts. Immortal Romance by Microgaming also has sticky symbols that show up during bonus rounds. Each spin builds on the last one, so even a decent spin can become something extraordinary. As you can tell from these examples, sticky symbols usually do their best work in bonus features — not so much in the base game. If they were always active, it’d be way too overpowered.

Why Sticky Symbols Are Awesome

First off, sticky symbols are your best buddies during gameplay — they drag a losing combo back from the edge and give it a chance to win. Since they stay on the reels, you can land winning combinations without spending more. Imagine a wild sticking around for multiple spins, helping you hit winning lines again and again.

Besides the money part, sticky symbols add a bit of suspense and energy to the game. Watching one land and lock in place is always fun, especially during free spins or bonus rounds. It’s like the game is telling you, “Hang tight — something big’s about to happen.” They might not guarantee a jackpot, but they’re a great boost to an already fun set of features.

How to Make the Most of Sticky Symbols

Like most slot features, sticky symbols don’t guarantee wins, and you can’t control when they appear. But here are a few smart tips to give yourself a better shot:

• Choose slots with free spins or bonuses that use sticky symbols — games like Starburst or Dead or Alive are great examples — check the paytable first to be sure.
• Look for a high RTP — aim for 95% or more. The higher the RTP, the better your long-term odds.
• Pay attention to volatility — medium or high-volatility slots might not pay out often, but when they do, it can be a big win. Sticky symbols are extra helpful here. Use small bets to stretch your playtime.
• Focus on free spins — that’s where sticky wilds usually show up and work their magic. Another reason to keep your bets modest at first is that once you get the hang of the game, you can bet more.

Conclusion

Sticky symbols — just like their cousins, stacked symbols — aren’t your classic slot features. They’re a cool twist that can boost your chances and turn regular spins into winning streaks. They stick around, help you win more, and add a bunch of entertainment, especially in bonus rounds. If you’re looking for something fun and potentially rewarding, definitely give slots with sticky symbols a try. Who knows, your successive big win might be just one sticky symbol away.