AvatarUX has a distinct visual style that they continuously refine with each new release. CritterPop, set in outer space, features a PopWins grid filled with fantastical animals. The grid can expand up to 5×6 in the base game, and reaching the maximum size awards 2 free spins. The bonus round, triggered by scatters, offers a pre-feature Reward Spin where players can accumulate modifiers and extras to enhance their gameplay and potentially win up to 20,000x their stake. Wild symbols are only available in the bonus round, substituting for pay symbols to form winning combinations. Activating the Ante Bet option increases the bet by 25% and doubles the chances of triggering the bonus round. Winning symbols “pop” and are replaced by 2 new symbols, expanding the grid and creating more ways to win. The grid can reach a maximum size of 5×6 with 15,553 win ways in the base game. To trigger the bonus round, players need 3, 4, or 5 scatters on the reels, resulting in a starting grid of 5×4, 5×5, or 5×6, respectively. Before the bonus round begins, a Reward Reels spin occurs, offering various extras such as resetting the grid size, additional spins, increased win multiplier, and a fully expanded grid for the duration of the bonus round. Players outside of the UK can take advantage of the Bonus Buy feature, offering different feature tiers at varying prices, providing a larger starting grid and increased chances for better rewards. The game’s highlights video showcases reel-expanding win sequences, with the bonus round triggering around the 1-minute mark. The game’s flow is smooth, although a double-click feature to speed up the gameplay and a shorter pause after a PopWin sequence would be welcome additions. The base game is typical for AvatarUX, but the space animal theme adds a unique touch. The potential extras in the bonus round make this installment worth exploring, with a maximum win potential of 20,000x the stake. MonkeyPop, CherryPop Deluxe, and BountyPop are other notable releases from AvatarUX with distinct themes and their own unique features.
