Rock Climber: a cartoon ascent with Igrosoft

From the hall to the high peaks

Igrosoft's arcade range covers jungles, garages and cake shops, and Rock Climber takes the same formula up a mountain. The hero is a climber with a rucksack and a determined grin, and the reels carry his kit: ropes, boots, axes, flasks and the summit flag. The art style is the studio's usual cheerful cartoon, so the danger never feels too real.

The grid is five reels by three rows with lines set from the panel, and the climber works as the wild. Higher-value equipment symbols are the ones to watch in the base game, while the bonus symbols are what open the way to the rock face.

The climb

When bonus symbols land on an active line, the screen switches to the rock face. Each stage asks you to choose a route; the right one moves you higher and pays out, the wrong one ends the ascent. Reaching the top brings a final reward. The structure gives the bonus a clear sense of progress, which is why many players rate it among the studio's best, even though every choice is random.

The card gamble

Line wins can be staked on the risk game: pick one of four face-down cards and beat the dealer's card to double the amount. Lose and the win disappears. It suits players who enjoy a quick decision, but it can undo a good bonus in two clicks, so try it carefully in the demo first.

Testing Rock Climber free

The demo opens with 1,000 virtual credits, no account and no download. Set all lines at about the equivalent of £0.45 and play 150 spins. Count how many stages you typically clear in the climb and how often you reach the summit. Mobile and desktop both run the game, and it is also available for real money at the casinos below.