Rise of Samurai 3: the warrior in red returns

A samurai in crimson armour stands with his blade drawn, horned helmet catching the light, while a pagoda glows red behind him. Rise of Samurai 3 is the third instalment of a Pragmatic Play series that has stuck faithfully to the same subject: feudal Japan, warriors and battle-ready colour schemes of red, black and gold.

Rules: let the game tell you

The series is less documented than Pragmatic’s big franchises, and each instalment changes things, so we will not claim to know every rule of this one. Open the paytable as soon as the demo loads. It sets out the grid, how wins are counted, which symbol is wild and how the bonus round plays out. If you have played an earlier Rise of Samurai, that is the screen where you will spot what this sequel does differently.

What sets it apart

Visually, the third game is darker and more cinematic, with the warrior closer to the camera and a stronger sense of menace than a typical Asian-themed slot. The Rise of Samurai 3 slot will suit players who enjoy a dramatic setting and are happy to sit through quieter spells waiting for the feature.

Play Rise of Samurai 3 free: a measured approach

The demo gives you 1,000 virtual credits, no account and no download. Begin with 150 spins at about 20p. Note how many spins pass before the first feature, what it pays relative to your stake and how the balance looks just before and after it. Then repeat with a higher stake for 50 spins. Comparing the two runs shows you how sharp the swings can be. It runs smoothly on mobile.

If the samurai theme appeals, it is also worth looking for the earlier instalments in the lobby. Playing them one after another is the quickest way to see how the series has changed over time.

When you have taken its measure, the same Rise of Samurai 3 game is available for real money at the casinos below.