Lightning Link pokies online for real money in Australia

The Lightning Link pokies series has gradually become a favourite amongst pokie lovers around the world. Developed by Aristocrat, each Lightning Link slot stands on its own with unique presentation and bonus features, while seamlessly integrating with the other Lightning Link slots to offer players a unique take on a progressive jackpot.
lightning link logo
Quick Facts
Jackpot Amount up to 10000
Slot Type
5-Reel
Payout %
95.5
Min/Max bet
0.5/10 credit
Slot Volitility
Med-High
No. of Paylines
50
Software Developer
Aristocrat
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Editor’s Verdict of Lightning Link

Pros
  • Unique themes for every title, including sports, history, and romance.
  • Hold and Spin bonus feature to access the progressive jackpot.
  • Up to 50 paylines across five reels.
  • Chance to win cash and jackpots by filling in 15 spots.
Cons
  • Not available online
  • Low RTP
There is a good reason why these classic pokies have become increasingly popular. Besides being loads of fun, they were the first games to introduce a ‘Hold and Spin bonus’ feature. Many players are drawn to Lightning Link pokies machines for their exciting features, linked progressive jackpot, and big win potential. As industry trendsetters, top game provider Aristocrat has added more games that have the same bonus feature. Although you cannot currently play these pokies online for real money, they are still a great entryway into the world of pokies and a great way to practice before you get into the real thing. So, if you're looking for something similar, we recommend you check out our other pokie reviews.

Ratings Breakdown


Jackpots & Bonus Games

10

Graphics & Audio

7

Ease-of-use & Gameplay

8

Payout

10

Fun

9

Features: Free spins, Bonus Games, Progressive, Wild Symbol, Scatter Symbol, Multipliers, Gamble Feature


Each of the games in the series has a similar set up. That makes it simpler to move from one game to another in the series.

One of the most interesting features of this series of pokies is reminiscent of Aristocrat’s popular Reel Power feature. Each of the Lightning Link pokies online real money have a range of denominations (coin sizes) and win-lines to choose from. Jackpot bonuses increase the higher the denomination you select. This encourages players to play with the highest denomination.

  • 1 or 2 cents denomination: 50 win-lines
  • 5 or 10 cents denomination: 250 or 50 win-lines
  • $1 or $2 denomination: 5 win-lines

Adding multipliers to your bets results in more win-lines for the larger bet-sizes. This makes it advantageous to bet the maximum amount. What is a little unusual is that lower bet amounts let punters play more pay lines than higher bet amounts, though higher bet amounts do increase the amount of money that can be won during the shared bonus game.

Similar to playing pokies online for real money, these pokies have popular features like the Wild and Scatter symbol. These are all based on the theme of the slot. While the symbols are different, they act the same across every slot in the series. Wilds can substitute for any symbol except for Scatters, and spinning three or more Scatters activates the bonus game for that slot.

The wild symbols typically appear on reels 2 to 5. Stacked wilds are common. As mentioned above, the hold and spin features is present across all the Lightning Link pokies online real money games.

We go into detail on the jackpots and bonus games below.

Jackpots & Bonus Games


For the time being, you can’t play these pokies online for real money so you won’t find them at an online casino for real money. Even though they are outside the realm of online pokies, we’d recommend giving them a fair go, since the many bonus features available make them great real money games. These pokies are different from the average pokie as they have a cool feature called a ‘Hold and Spin bonus’. Each game within has its own base game and free spins bonus, with different ways to increase your wins while using this feature.

Hold & Spin

With this feature, the regular symbols disappear and six or more special symbols that have cash amounts or jackpot names appear. These new symbols are what trigger this feature. You are then given three spins to try and hit one or more prizes in pokies online for real money. When you hit one of these prizes, your spins are reset to three. When you miss three times, the balls are counted and you are awarded the prize. There are mini, minor or major prizes which are won when you hit balls with these names. When a player fills and entire grid with balls then they win the grand jackpot.

With this feature, the regular symbols disappear, and six or more special symbols that have cash amounts or jackpot names appear. These new symbols are what trigger this feature. You are then given three spins to try and hit one or more prizes in Lightning Link pokies online real money games. When you hit one of these prizes, your spins are reset to three.

If you miss three times, the balls are counted, and you’ll receive a prize. There are three types of prizes that increase in value. Each prize is awarded when you hit balls with the names, Mini, Minor or Major. When you fill an entire grid with balls in Lightning Link pokies online real money play, you’ll win the grand jackpot.

How It Works:

1. Triggering the Feature:

The Hold and Spin feature is typically triggered when you land on six or more special symbols, which appear as coins, stars, or other valuable icons, on the reels during a spin.

2. The Hold And Spin Round:

  • When triggered, regular reels disappear which only leaves special symbols that activated the feature on the screen. You’re then awarded some free spins.
  • During these spins, the goal is to land on more special symbols. Each time you land on a new special symbol, it is held in place, and the spin counter resets to three.
  • The round continues until no new special symbols appear during the spins, or until all 15 positions on the reels are filled.

3. Potential For Wins:

The value of the symbols collected during the Hold and Spin feature is totaled at the end of the round, and this amount is awarded to the player.
– In many versions of Lightning Link, the feature also gives players a chance to win fixed jackpots, such as the Mini, Minor, Major, or even the Grand Jackpot, depending on the symbols collected during the feature.

4. Exciting Gameplay:

Although Link pokies aren’t online pokies, they are still as thrilling as any other slot. The more new symbols you collect, the bigger the possibility of winning a substantial prize increases. This feature stands out because of its potential for big wins and the added thrills it adds to the game.

Free Spins

Depending on the pokie you are playing three or more scatter symbols will give you a free spins bonus. These are some of the symbols that can appear in this pokie series.

  • Giant Symbols
  • Richer Reels
  • High Stakes
  • Sahara Gold
  • Multiplier Wilds
  • Reveal Symbols
  • Expanding Wilds
  • Big Red Pokies

The Grand jackpot is shared among all of the slots at a casino, and starts at $10,000. Every time someone plays any of the games, it contributes to both the Major and Grand jackpots. While the Grand jackpot can only be won once, really lucky players may be able to win the Mini, Minor, or Major jackpots more than once during the Hold and Spin feature.

RTP & Volatility


Each of the games in the series has a similar setup, making it simpler to move from one game to another. One of the most interesting features of this series of pokies is reminiscent of Aristocrat’s popular Reel Power feature. Each of the Lightning Link pokies online for real money includes a range of denominations (coin sizes) and win-lines to choose from. Jackpot bonuses increase with higher denominations, encouraging players to play with the highest denomination.

  • 1 or 2 cents denomination: 50 win-line
  • 5 or 10 cents denomination: 250 or 50 win-lines
  • $1 or $2 denomination: 5 win-lines

Adding multipliers to your bets results in more win-lines for the larger bet sizes. This makes it advantageous to bet the maximum amount. Interestingly, lower bet amounts let punters play more paylines than higher bet amounts, though higher bet amounts increase the potential winnings during the shared bonus game and linked progressive jackpot.

Similar to playing pokies online for real money, these pokies feature popular symbols like the Wild, Scatter, and bonus symbols, all based on the slot’s theme. While the symbols differ in appearance, they function the same across every game in the series. Wild symbols can substitute for any symbol except for Scatters and bonus symbols. Spinning three or more Scatters activates the bonus game for that slot.

The Wild symbols typically appear on reels 2 to 5, and stacked wilds are common. As mentioned earlier, the Hold & Spin feature is present across all the Lightning Link pokies machines.

We go into detail on the jackpots, bonus symbols, and bonus games below.

Mobile Play


Although this series of pokies are very popular at land-based casinos, you can only play Lightning Link pokies online real money as a demo on certain casino apps. These apps are compatible on all mobile devices and can be enjoyed at any time.


Winning on Lightning Link pokies online for real money in Australia isn’t possible as these games are only available in real life casinos. However, these pokies machines, including the base game, are largely based on luck, as slot games use random number generators (RNGs) to determine outcomes. However, there are some strategies that can help you maximize your enjoyment and possibly increase your chances of hitting a good payout. Here are some tips and strategies to consider:

  1. Understand the game mechanics – Especially bonus features like the Hold & Spin and Free Spins features!
  • Bonus Features: Lightning Link slots typically have two key features: the Hold & Spin feature (triggered by collecting 6 or more bonus symbols like pearls or fireballs) and Free Spins rounds. Learn how these features work in each game you play, as they are the key to larger payouts.
  • Bet Size and Jackpots: Lightning Link slots usually offer four jackpots: Mini, Minor, Major, and Grand. Larger bets can potentially increase your chance of landing a higher jackpot (especially during the Hold & Spin feature), but balance your bet size with your budget.
  1. Start with Smaller Bets – Then gradually increase based on your results.
  • Gradual Increase in Bet Size: Start with smaller bets to get a feel for the game and see how it’s paying out. Once you understand the slot’s rhythm or if you’re starting to hit some bonuses, you can gradually increase your bet size. Higher bets can increase your chances of landing larger bonuses and jackpots, but starting small helps you manage your bankroll.
  1. Bankroll Management – Set yourself a win/loss limit
  • Set a Budget: Before playing, decide how much money you are willing to spend (and potentially lose). Stick to this budget to avoid overspending. Once you’ve hit your limit, it’s best to walk away.
  • Avoid Chasing Losses: If you’re on a losing streak, it can be tempting to keep playing to try to win back your money. However, this can lead to larger losses. Stick to your limits.
  • Set Win/Loss Limits: Establish a goal for winnings (e.g., stop after doubling your starting balance) and a stop-loss limit (e.g., stop if you lose 50% of your budget).
  1. Utilise Bonuses & Promotions – Make the most of your time and money
  • Casino Bonuses: If you’re playing at an online casino, take advantage of bonuses and promotions that give you extra play money. This can extend your playtime and give you more chances to hit a bonus.
  • Player Rewards Programs: If you’re playing in a physical casino, join the casino’s rewards program to earn points, free spins, or other perks that can extend your gaming experience without additional costs.
  1. Take advantage of the Hold & Spin Feature – For a chance to win bigger prizes.
  • Hold & Spin Feature: In Lightning Link slots, the Hold & Spin feature is where you can win the big jackpots. To trigger this, you need to land six bonus symbols (such as pearls, coins, or orbs) in a single spin. This feature gives you three chances to collect more symbols, each resetting the spins back to three. Aim to trigger this feature for the chance to win the larger jackpots.
  1. Time Your Play – Vary the games and the duration you play them for.
  • Hot and Cold Cycles: Some players believe that slot machines go through ‘hot’ and ‘cold’ cycles. While there is no scientific proof behind this due to the RNG nature of slots, some players prefer to test out machines for a few spins and, if they aren’t hitting anything, move to another machine.
  1. Progressive Jackpots – Play these when they are higher.
  • Watch for Progressive Jackpots: If the Lightning Link games you play areas part of a progressive jackpot network, keep an eye on the jackpot amounts. Some players prefer to play when the jackpots, particularly the Major and Grand jackpots, have grown to higher values, believing that the machine might be “due” for a payout.
  1. Know When to Walk Away – Especially after a big win or when you reach your budget.
  • Set Time Limits: It’s important to set a time limit for your session. Slot machines can be fast-paced and highly engaging, so it’s easy to lose track of time. Setting a limit ensures you stay in control of your gambling habits.
  • Quit While You’re Ahead: If you’re up and have had a big win, consider cashing out. Slots are designed to eventually return most winnings to the house, so leaving after a significant win ensures you keep some of your profit.
  1. Play for Fun – Remember why you’re playing!
  • Entertainment Focus: Remember that slot machines, including Lightning Link, are games of chance. While strategic bankroll management and understanding game mechanics can help extend your play and make the experience more enjoyable, there’s no guaranteed way to win. Play for entertainment, and if you win, consider it a bonus!

Ultimately, Lightning Link slots are meant to be a fun and engaging experience. Following these tips can help you enjoy the game responsibly while increasing your chances of hitting bonus rounds and maximizing your play.


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