Depths of Fortune 2 Slot Review

Last Updated on August 9, 2026 by Maurya

Depths of Fortune 2 takes players back beneath the waves for another treasure-hunting expedition inside a strange, retro-futuristic submarine. Developed by AvatarUX, this follow-up retains the original game’s atmospheric underwater setting and recognisable Loaded Reel concept while rebuilding the mathematical model, expanding the playing area and adding a five-tier jackpot system.

This is not simply a visual update. AvatarUX says it has rebuilt the slot on a new engine with fresh mathematics and a revised maximum-win structure. The game begins on a 5×4 grid but can expand to 5×7, increasing the number of winning combinations from 1,024 to as many as 16,807 ways. Its principal attraction remains the Loaded Reel positioned next to the main grid, which can produce multipliers, board expansions and other modifiers.

One important point should be made before continuing: Depths of Fortune 2 is scheduled for release on 20 August 2026. At the time of writing on 4 August 2026, it is therefore a pre-release title rather than a slot already available across every casino. This review is based on the official specifications and preview information published by AvatarUX, alongside available pre-release listings.

Depths of Fortune 2 Slot Specification

The official game page lists three RTP configurations: 96.1%, 94.1% and 90.6%. Casinos may therefore offer different mathematical versions of Depths of Fortune 2. Players should open the information or paytable menu at the casino and check the active RTP before betting.

Theme, Graphics and Presentation

Depths of Fortune 2 returns to the industrial submarine world established by the first game. AvatarUX describes the setting as being inspired by Jules Verne, combining turn-of-the-century exploration with oversized machinery, deep-sea mystery and hidden treasure.

Rather than using the colourful cartoon style associated with many AvatarUX PopWins releases, this series has a darker and more mechanical identity. Pipes, pressure gauges, riveted metal and dim underwater lighting create the impression that the reels are installed inside an experimental submersible.

That atmosphere gives Depths of Fortune 2 more personality than the average coin-collection slot. The premise is familiar—descend into dangerous waters and retrieve lost riches—but the steampunk-like equipment and moody ocean setting help distinguish it from conventional pirate and tropical-island games.

The Loaded Reel also forms part of the presentation. It is not hidden behind a menu or introduced only during a bonus. It sits beside the main grid, making it clear that an additional modifier system is active throughout the game.

How Depths of Fortune 2 Works

The base game begins with five reels and four visible rows. With four positions on each reel, the starting arrangement provides 1,024 ways to win.

Unlike slots with fixed paylines, ways-to-win games normally reward matching symbols that appear on consecutive reels beginning from the leftmost reel. The number of possible combinations depends on how many positions are available across the grid.

Depths of Fortune 2 can expand vertically from 5×4 to 5×7. When all seven rows are unlocked, the game offers 16,807 possible ways to form combinations. The expansion does not guarantee a profit, but it creates more available symbol positions and more opportunities for simultaneous combinations.

This growing layout is central to the sequel. The original Depths of Fortune already combined a Loaded Reel with grid-related modifiers, but the new game places greater emphasis on board expansion and the interaction between the main reels, bonus coins and jackpot system. AvatarUX says the sequel was rebuilt with a new engine and fresh mathematical model rather than being produced as a simple reskin.

The Loaded Reel Explained

The Loaded Reel is the signature mechanic in Depths of Fortune 2. It appears next to the standard playing grid and produces modifiers capable of changing the result or preparing the board for a stronger feature.

According to AvatarUX, the Loaded Reel can:

• Award multipliers
• Trigger board expansions
• Activate bonus features
• Add power-ups during the Hold & Win round
• Support Collector symbols that gather coin values

The mechanic creates a second point of anticipation on each spin. Players are not only watching the five standard reels; they are also waiting to see whether the Loaded Reel produces a useful modifier.

This is especially important because the game carries super-high volatility. Base-game wins may not arrive in a smooth or predictable pattern. A well-timed multiplier or board expansion can therefore have a significant effect on an otherwise ordinary sequence.

The first Depths of Fortune also used a Loaded Reel positioned to the left of the grid. In that version, possible rewards included wilds, colossal wilds, symbol upgrades, global multipliers, extra lives, coin upgrades and collection effects. The sequel keeps the core concept but integrates it with a larger 5×7 grid and five jackpot levels.

Expanding Grid and 16,807 Ways to Win

Depths of Fortune 2 starts with 1,024 ways to win. As additional rows are unlocked, the number of combinations increases until the game reaches its maximum 5×7 format and 16,807 ways.

This mechanic provides visible progression. Rather than presenting the maximum grid immediately, the slot makes players work towards a larger board through Loaded Reel activity and feature triggers.

An expanded grid can be valuable for two reasons. First, it adds more symbol positions to the ways-to-win calculation. Second, it creates additional spaces for coins during the Hold & Win feature.

The second point may be more important. A conventional Hold & Win bonus often takes place on a fixed board. Depths of Fortune 2 can run its principal bonus across as many as 35 positions. More open positions mean more places for coins, power-ups and jackpot-related symbols to land.

However, the expanding grid should not be interpreted as a guaranteed advantage during an individual session. It remains part of a random slot model, and the value of each expansion depends on the symbols and modifiers that follow.

Loaded Hold & Win Bonus

The main attraction is the Loaded Hold & Win feature. Coin symbols become fixed on the grid, while the remaining available spaces respin in search of additional coins and modifiers.

AvatarUX says that every new coin can activate the Loaded Reel, creating opportunities for further power-ups. Collector symbols may also appear and gather the cash values visible on the board.

The usual Hold & Win objective is straightforward: land as many valuable coins as possible before the respins or lives expire. Each new coin generally keeps the sequence active, while an unsuccessful respin moves the feature closer to its conclusion.

What makes this version more interesting is the interaction between four elements:

1. Locked coin values
2. The expanding playing area
3. Loaded Reel modifiers
4. Collector and jackpot opportunities

This structure gives the feature more depth than a basic lock-and-respin round. A new coin can provide an immediate value, occupy another grid position and trigger further activity through the Loaded Reel.

As the board grows, the feature can take place across the full 5×7 layout. Filling all 35 available positions awards the Grand Jackpot, according to the developer.

Five Jackpot Tiers

Depths of Fortune 2 includes five jackpot levels within its bonus system. The official preview does not list the individual jackpot names or values, but it confirms that five tiers are active in the bonus round.

The ultimate objective is to fill every one of the 35 grid positions. Completing the full 5×7 board awards the Grand Jackpot.

This provides a clear end goal during the Hold & Win feature. Even low-value coins can have strategic visual importance because every occupied position moves the board closer to completion.

Players should check the final in-game paytable after release for the precise jackpot values. Jackpot amounts, feature availability and RTP configuration can vary between operators or regulated markets.

Feature Spin, Bonus Buy and Bonus Buy MAX

Depths of Fortune 2 is expected to offer three methods of accelerating access to its special mechanics:

• Feature Spin
• Bonus Buy
• Bonus Buy MAX

The Feature Spin option is likely to adjust the cost or mathematical profile of a spin in exchange for a stronger probability of feature-related activity. Bonus Buy provides direct access to the principal bonus, while Bonus Buy MAX is positioned as a more powerful or enhanced entry option. AvatarUX confirms all three options on the official game page.

Exact prices and configurations should be checked inside the game. Bonus purchases are not legal or available in every jurisdiction, and casinos operating in restricted markets may remove them completely.

Buying a bonus does not improve the underlying certainty of winning. It changes how quickly the player reaches a high-variance feature and usually requires a much larger upfront stake. Given the slot’s super-high volatility, these options can produce rapid losses as well as occasional large returns.

Depths of Fortune 2 RTP

The primary RTP for Depths of Fortune 2 is 96.1%, but AvatarUX also lists 94.1% and 90.6% versions.

These differences are substantial:

• A 96.1% RTP corresponds to a theoretical house edge of 3.9%.
• A 94.1% RTP corresponds to a theoretical house edge of 5.9%.
• A 90.6% RTP corresponds to a theoretical house edge of 9.4%.

The 96.1% version is clearly the most favourable of the three from a mathematical perspective. Players should not assume that every casino supplies this version simply because it appears first in promotional information.

RTP is calculated across a very large number of game rounds. It does not mean that a player staking £100 will receive £96.10 back during one session. The UK Gambling Commission explains that theoretical RTP is a long-term average and can vary considerably across a typical playing session, especially in volatile games.

Volatility and Win Potential

AvatarUX classifies Depths of Fortune 2 as a super-high variance slot. That is one of the most important facts in this review.

Super-high volatility usually means that results can be uneven. Players may experience extended sequences of small returns or non-winning spins while waiting for the Loaded Reel and Hold & Win mechanics to combine effectively.

The maximum payout is 10,000× the stake. At a £1 bet, that theoretical limit would equal £10,000. At £0.20, it would equal £2,000. The actual amount may also be restricted by a casino’s maximum-payout rules.

Interestingly, the original Depths of Fortune offered a higher headline maximum of 20,000× and was officially classified as medium variance. The sequel halves the listed maximum to 10,000× but moves to a super-high-volatility profile, adds five jackpot tiers and expands the Hold & Win board to 35 positions.

This suggests that the sequel is intended to deliver a more intense, feature-focused experience, even though its absolute maximum multiplier is lower than that of the first game.

Depths of Fortune vs Depths of Fortune 2

The original may appeal more to players who prefer a medium-volatility mathematical model and a larger headline maximum. The sequel is better suited to players interested in expanding grids, jackpot hunting and a more aggressive Hold & Win structure.

Can You Use a Strategy?

No playing system can predict or control the outcome of a random online slot. Changing the time of day, switching stake sizes after a loss or leaving and reopening the game does not make a jackpot “due.”

A sensible approach is based on risk management rather than attempts to beat the mathematics:

• Check that the casino is licensed in your jurisdiction.
• Select the 96.1% version when it is available.
• Test the demo before using real money.
• Use a small stake relative to your total entertainment budget.
• Set firm time and loss limits before starting.
• Do not increase bets to recover previous losses.
• Treat Bonus Buy MAX as a high-risk option, not a shortcut to profit.
• Stop when the predetermined budget has been spent.

Because Depths of Fortune 2 has super-high volatility, a larger number of low-stake spins may provide a more sustainable experience than a small number of expensive spins. It does not change the long-term house edge, but it reduces the amount risked on each individual result.

Is AvatarUX a Trusted Slot Provider?

AvatarUX operates through regulated corporate entities. Its official website states that Epic88 Limited, trading as AvatarUX, holds a Swedish supplier licence. It also lists a Romanian Class 2 software-distribution licence and a Malta Gaming Authority recognition notice for Epic88 Malta Limited.

This does not mean every website offering AvatarUX games is automatically safe. Players must also verify the casino’s own licence, payment terms, withdrawal rules and responsible-gambling controls.

A trustworthy casino should clearly display the selected RTP, explain bonus conditions, provide account-limit tools and make its licensing information easy to verify.

Depths of Fortune 2 Pros and Cons

Advantages

• Distinctive Jules Verne-inspired underwater theme
• Loaded Reel active alongside the main grid
• Expanding 5×4 to 5×7 layout
• Up to 16,807 ways to win
• Interactive Hold & Win feature
• Five jackpot tiers
• Collector symbols and bonus power-ups
• Competitive 96.1% top RTP
• Maximum win of 10,000×
• Several feature-access options

Disadvantages

• Super-high volatility will not suit every player
• Lower RTP versions of 94.1% and 90.6% exist
• Bonus purchases can consume a bankroll quickly
• The maximum win is lower than the original game’s 20,000× cap
• Pre-release availability is limited before 20 August 2026
• Exact jackpot values and bonus prices may vary by operator

Who Should Play Depths of Fortune 2?

Depths of Fortune 2 is likely to appeal to experienced slot players who enjoy:

• Hold & Win bonuses
• Expanding grids
• Variable ways-to-win systems
• Coin collection
• Jackpot objectives
• High-risk mathematical models
• Darker adventure themes
• Modifier reels that influence the main board

It may be less suitable for players who prefer frequent small wins, low volatility, traditional paylines or simple three-reel gameplay.

New players should begin with the free demo and avoid the Bonus Buy MAX option until they fully understand how quickly the feature can use their available balance.

Final Verdict

Depths of Fortune 2 appears to be a meaningful reconstruction rather than an unnecessary sequel. AvatarUX has preserved the original game’s most recognisable idea—the Loaded Reel—while connecting it to a larger 5×7 grid, 16,807 ways to win, Collector symbols and a five-tier jackpot system.

The Loaded Hold & Win feature is the main reason to play. Every new coin has the potential to extend the round, activate additional power-ups and move the player closer to filling all 35 positions for the Grand Jackpot.

There are, however, two major cautions. First, the game is classified as super-high variance, so losing sequences may be severe. Second, three RTP versions exist. The difference between 96.1% and 90.6% is too large to ignore.

Overall, Depths of Fortune 2 looks promising for players who appreciate complex Hold & Win slots and do not mind substantial volatility. Its atmosphere is distinctive, its expanding-board mechanic is easy to understand, and its jackpot objective gives the bonus round a clear sense of progression.

Review rating: 8.3/10

The strongest version is the one using the 96.1% RTP. Players should verify that figure in the game rules, use modest stakes and view the slot strictly as paid entertainment.

FAQs

When will Depths of Fortune 2 be released?

AvatarUX has scheduled Depths of Fortune 2 for global release on 20 August 2026. Availability at individual casinos may begin later depending on integration and regulatory approval.

What is the RTP of Depths of Fortune 2?

The official RTP configurations are 96.1%, 94.1% and 90.6%. Check the paytable to determine which version your casino offers.

What is the maximum win?

The maximum advertised win is 10,000 times the stake.

Is Depths of Fortune 2 highly volatile?

Yes. AvatarUX officially classifies the game as super-high variance. This means payouts may be uneven and significant losing periods are possible.

How many ways to win are available?

The game starts with 1,024 ways on a 5×4 grid. It can expand to 5×7, providing up to 16,807 ways to win.

How does the Hold & Win bonus work?

Coins lock onto the board while the remaining positions respin. New coins activate the Loaded Reel for possible modifiers, and Collector symbols can gather visible coin values. Filling all 35 grid positions awards the Grand Jackpot.

Does Depths of Fortune 2 have a Bonus Buy?

Yes. The official game information lists Feature Spin, Bonus Buy and Bonus Buy MAX options. Availability depends on the casino and local regulations.

Is there a guaranteed way to win?

No. Depths of Fortune 2 is a random game, and no strategy can guarantee a payout. RTP is a long-term theoretical average rather than a promise for an individual session.

Responsible gambling notice: Depths of Fortune 2 is intended for adults of legal gambling age. Set limits for time and money, never chase losses and do not gamble with money required for essential expenses.