Fishing might not be the first theme that comes to mind when you think of a UK online slot, but Pragmatic Play’s Big Bass Bonanza franchise has proved that sometimes, the unexpected becomes iconic. Since its debut, this series has hooked players with cheerful cartoon visuals, upbeat soundtracks, and, most importantly, bonus features that keep the action lively. With multiple sequels, from Big Bass Splash to Bigger Bass Bonanza, the franchise has grown into one of the most recognisable slot families in the UK market.
But what exactly makes Big Bass Bonanza stand out from thousands of other titles? Let’s explore its origins, what keeps players returning, and how the series has evolved across its sequels.
The Origin of Big Bass Bonanza
The first Big Bass Bonanza launched in 2020, and it quickly became one of Pragmatic Play’s signature hits. Set against a sunny fishing backdrop, the game features symbols like fishing rods, tackle boxes, and the much-loved fisherman Wild symbol.
The Core Mechanics
At its heart, Big Bass Bonanza is built around Free Spins triggered by Scatter symbols. During the bonus round, the fisherman Wild collects cash values attached to fish symbols, adding both anticipation and charm to the gameplay.
Why the Theme Works
Fishing as a concept might sound niche, but it taps into a sense of leisure and fun. Combined with vibrant, cartoonish art and a light-hearted soundtrack, the theme struck a chord with players looking for an easy-going but rewarding slot.
Reception on Launch
The original became popular because of its balance of straightforward mechanics and quirky features. It wasn’t overly complex, which allowed casual players to dive straight in, while still offering enough bonus potential to appeal to seasoned slot fans.
What Makes the Series So Popular?
The enduring success of the Big Bass franchise comes down to a combination of recognisable mechanics, playful presentation, and smart sequel design.
The Fisherman Wild
The fisherman has become an iconic character, collecting fish values during Free Spins. In later sequels, he also comes with multipliers, making him not just a mascot but a vital part of gameplay excitement.
Free Spins with Progression
Unlike some slots where Free Spins feel repetitive, the Big Bass series adds progression. Filling up Wild meters in sequels unlocks additional features, higher multipliers, or retriggers, which keeps the bonus rounds engaging.
Consistent but Varied Design
Each game feels familiar but adds something new. Whether it’s increased volatility, tweaked mechanics, or a refreshed visual style, Pragmatic Play has kept the franchise consistent without letting it become stale.
Comparing Big Bass Titles
The franchise has now grown into several instalments, each with its own quirks. Here’s a closer look at the main titles and how they compare:
Big Bass Bonanza (2020)
- RTP: ~96.71%
- Volatility: Medium-High
- Key Feature: Fisherman Wild collects fish during Free Spins.
- Why it works: The foundation of the series, simple yet entertaining.
Bigger Bass Bonanza (2021)
- RTP: ~96.71%
- Volatility: High
- Key Feature: Expands on the fisherman mechanic with bigger prizes and more lines.
- Why it works: The “bigger” branding lived up to expectations, offering higher volatility for players chasing more action.
Big Bass Splash (2022)
- RTP: ~96.71%
- Volatility: High
- Key Feature: Pre-bonus modifiers, including extra Scatters and instant Free Spins upgrades.
- Why it works: Added variety before the Free Spins even begin, injecting more dynamism.
Big Bass Xmas Extreme (2024)
- RTP: ~96.07%
- Volatility: High
- Key Feature: Same mechanics as the original but with a festive reskin.
- Why it works: Seasonal charm, though not a radical reinvention.
Big Bass Keeping It Reel (2022)
- RTP: ~96.07%
- Volatility: High
- Key Feature: Golden hook symbols and new collection features.
- Why it works: Introduced a fresh twist, helping to keep the franchise relevant.
Ranking the Series by Popularity
While player preference can vary, overall reception tends to rank the series as follows:
- Big Bass Bonanza (original) – still beloved for its simplicity.
- Big Bass Splash – praised for innovative pre-bonus upgrades.
- Bigger Bass Bonanza – appealing for players who enjoy higher volatility.
- Big Bass Keeping It Reel – respected for adding fresh twists.
- Big Bass Xmas Extreme – a fun seasonal variant but less innovative.
This ranking shows how sequels succeed best when they expand mechanics rather than simply reskinning.
What’s Next for the Big Bass Franchise?
The Big Bass series shows no signs of slowing down. Pragmatic Play has built a formula that balances familiarity with steady innovation. Future instalments will likely continue experimenting with volatility, multipliers, and bonus progression while maintaining the fisherman mascot that ties it all together.
Trends to Expect
- More Thematic Variants: Seasonal or event-based editions, much like the Christmas release.
- Deeper Mechanics: Additional progression systems in Free Spins to keep long-term players engaged.
- Visual Overhauls: Improved graphics and animations as technology advances.
Why the Franchise Endures
Unlike one-off hits, Big Bass Bonanza thrives because it has become a brand within Pragmatic Play’s catalogue. The combination of accessible gameplay, recognisable characters, and consistent features ensures the series will continue making waves.
Conclusion
The Big Bass Bonanza franchise has gone from a quirky fishing-themed slot to one of the most recognisable names in the UK market. Each sequel adds a fresh element while maintaining the series’ trademark fisherman Wild and Free Spins collection mechanics. Whether you prefer the original’s simplicity, the added flair of Big Bass Splash, or the festive cheer of Big Bass Xmas Extreme, there’s an entry in the series for every style of player.
As Pragmatic Play continues to expand the franchise, the fisherman’s rod is unlikely to be hung up any time soon. Instead, the series looks set to keep reeling in fans with its winning combination of fun visuals, rewarding mechanics, and steady innovation.
