The 2012 NetEnt classic that defined the arcade-style pokie, featuring cosmic gems, both-way payouts, and an legendary expanding wild mechanic.
Starburst
by NetEnt
No download · No registration · Free play
Starburst is a NetEnt classic built around a bright space arcade style, sparkling gems and simple gameplay. Released in 2012, it remains a staple at the best online casino Australia sites due to its low-barrier entry and frequent hits. With a solid RTP and low volatility, it’s the antithesis of the high-risk modern “bonus buy” slots.
Starburst quick facts
Provider: NetEnt | Theme: Space, Cosmic Gems | Volatility: Low | Typical RTP: 96.09% | Max win: ~500x | AU note: Available at most offshore AU-friendly sites.
- 🎰 Grid: 5 reels x 3 rows
- ✨ Feature: Expanding Wilds with Respins
- ↔️ Payouts: Win Both Ways (Left-to-Right & Right-to-Left)
- 📱 Mobile: Fully optimized for iOS and Android
- 💰 Max Win: 500x your stake
First impressions and core features of Starburst
Starburst NetEnt is one of the easiest pokies to understand. There is no complicated bonus map or progressive jackpot. Instead, the whole experience is built around colourful gems, expanding wilds and quick respins. For more variety, check our best pokies Australia list.
- ✅ Strengths: Very simple rules, low volatility for steady sessions, both-way payouts effectively double the win lines.
- ❌ Weak points: Limited max win (500x), no traditional free spins round, visuals may feel dated to players used to 3D slots.
- 🎰 Mechanics: Expanding Starburst Wilds on reels 2, 3, and 4 award up to 3 respins.
- 💰 AUD play: Stakes are easily adjustable to suit small bankrolls, typically starting at A$0.10.
| Metric | Details |
|---|---|
| Game Type | Video Slot / Pokie |
| Provider | NetEnt |
| Paylines | 10 fixed lines (Win Both Ways) |
| Typical RTP | 96.09% |
| Volatility | Low |
| Max Win | 500x stake |
Starburst theme and atmosphere
The slot uses a cosmic gem theme with bright jewels floating over a deep space background. It feels more like an arcade game than a story-driven pokie. The soundtrack is electronic and repetitive in a deliberate way, providing a “trance-like” rhythm that supports short, fast sessions.
Starburst reels and symbols explained
The game runs on a 5×3 grid with 10 fixed paylines. Wins are created matching symbols from left to right OR right to left. The paytable is simple: the “BAR” and “7” symbols are the heavy hitters, while the gems provide the base-game frequency.
| Symbol | Role | Value |
|---|---|---|
| Star Wild | Expanding Wild + Respin Trigger | Feature |
| Gold BAR | Highest paying regular symbol | High |
| Lucky 7 | Second highest regular symbol | High |
| Yellow Gem | High-mid value | Medium |
| Green/Red Gem | Mid value | Medium |
| Blue/Purple Gem | Standard values | Low |
Bonus mechanics in detail
There isn’t a “bonus game” in the traditional sense. Everything revolves around the Starburst Wild. When a rainbow-coloured star lands on reels 2, 3, or 4:
- It expands to cover the entire reel.
- It triggers a free respin of the other reels.
- If another Wild lands, it also expands and awards another respin (max 3).
| Feature | How it works | Player Value |
|---|---|---|
| Expanding Wilds | Covers reels 2, 3, or 4 entirely | Higher chance of multi-line wins |
| Wild Respins | Triggered by any Expanding Wild | Free extra chances at no cost |
| Both Ways | Wins count from Left and Right | Double the win potential per line |
RTP, Variance and Max Win
The 96.09% RTP is the theoretical return. Because Starburst is “Low Volatility,” you can expect more frequent, smaller wins compared to “High Volatility” games like Sweet Bonanza.
Bet Sizing for AU Bankrolls
- 💡 A$30 Bankroll: Use minimum stakes (A$0.10 – A$0.20) to maximize playtime.
- 💡 A$100 Bankroll: Consider A$0.50 – A$1.00 spins, but set a strict 20% loss limit.
- 💡 Low Risk: Starburst is ideal for clearing wagering requirements on bonuses.
- 💡 No Chasing: Even low volatility games can have dry spells. Stick to your budget.
Comparing Starburst to similar slots
| Slot | Provider | Volatility | Main Appeal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starburst | NetEnt | Low | Simplicity & Expanding Wilds |
| Gonzo’s Quest | NetEnt | Medium | Avalanche multipliers |
| Book of Dead | Play’n GO | High | Expanding symbols in Free Spins |
Overall assessment of Starburst
Starburst remains a global favourite because it doesn’t try to be too clever. Its low-volatility nature makes it the perfect entry-level pokie for Australians. While it won’t make you a millionaire on a single spin, its “Win Both Ways” mechanic and expanding Wilds offer a balanced, entertaining experience.
Best for: Beginners, casual players, and those looking for longer play sessions without massive swings.
Try Starburst in demo mode before depositing. Only play at AU-friendly casinos if you are 18+.
Responsible gambling: Set limits and never treat pokies as income. For support in Australia, contact Gambling Help Online at 1800 858 858.
FAQ about Starburst
Is Starburst suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. It is widely considered the best “starter” pokie due to its simple 10-line layout and clear mechanics.
What is the variance of Starburst?
It is Low volatility. This means you get frequent wins, but they are usually smaller in size compared to high-risk games.
Does Starburst have a Free Spins round?
No. It uses “Respins” triggered by Wilds. There is no separate scatter-triggered bonus screen.
Can I play Starburst in AUD?
Yes, most AU-friendly offshore casinos will display the game in AUD or convert your deposit to a supported currency.