Thunderkick launches Carnival Queen 2 with expanded reel mechanics

• Independent slots studio releases sequel to popular Mardi Gras-themed game with up to 117,649 ways to win
• New expanding reel system allows heights to change randomly from two to seven symbols during gameplay
• Enhanced features include infinite multipliers and 25,000x maximum win potential in bonus rounds

Thunderkick has released Carnival Queen 2, a sequel to its Mardi Gras-inspired slot game that introduces an expanding reel structure capable of delivering up to 117,649 ways to win.

The independent slots studio’s latest release builds upon the original’s vibrant street party theme whilst incorporating enhanced mechanics and increased win potential.

Enhanced Reel Structure

The sequel features a dynamic grid layout where each reel’s height can change randomly from two to seven symbols, providing between 5,040 and 117,649 ways to win. This represents a significant expansion from the original game’s fixed structure.

The familiar Avalanche mechanic continues to play a central role, replacing winning symbols and increasing the multiplier by 1x with each cascade. The multiplier can increase indefinitely as long as winning combinations continue to form.

Updated Features

The Exploding Wild returns with enhanced functionality, now impacting both base and bonus gameplay. When triggered, it removes all symbols vertically whilst randomly eliminating one symbol from every other reel, simultaneously increasing its own reel’s height to boost payline potential.

Players can activate the bonus round by landing three scatter symbols, triggering 12 free spins. During this feature, reel heights and multipliers remain persistent between spins, maintaining accumulated progress throughout the bonus sequence.

Strategic Release

The game represents Thunderkick’s approach to developing successful franchise sequels that build upon established themes and mechanics. The original Carnival Queen, launched over six years ago, continues to perform strongly within the studio’s portfolio.

“More than six years have passed since we launched the original Carnival Queen, which remains a strong performer in Thunderkick’s portfolio. We felt the time was right to refresh a fan-favourite,” said Johannes Polbring, Game Product Owner at Thunderkick.

“This sequel introduces more base game action, a brand-new expanding reels grid structure, and even bigger win potential, while preserving the electric fiesta atmosphere that made the first release such a success.”

The maximum win potential reaches 25,000x the stake, supported by the combination of expanding reels, infinite multipliers, and enhanced wild mechanics.