I have to
confess, I love Antiques Roadshow. I love the Keno twins,
the guy with the ponytail and the shows perky hostess.
Ive been fortunate in the past to have been watching when the painting
bought for $1 at a garage sale is appraised at $500,000, and when the
table thats been in the family forever is worth millions.
I guess thats why we all watch the show, for those once-a-season
moments when the owner of the piece and one or more Keno twins freaks
out.
Thats why
I love IGTs Antique Appraisal video slot. Theres always
that chance that the spin (like an old piece of junk) will bring in
a zillion credits (like the old piece of junk turning out to be an original
by Paul Revere or Frank Lloyd Wright or Picasso).
The game is so elegant
looking. The script logo is spelled out in sparkling gold, in a filigree
border against a red velvet drape. So refined. On the screen, each line
number is framed in gilt. The symbols are equally upscale, including
a lovely clock, several hand-painted plates, a toy top, a toy bank,
a dainty piano-shaped music box, even an antique slot machine. The sophisticated
Antique Appraisal logo is the wild symbol. Adding even more high-toned
atmosphere is the minuet-like music that tinkles in the background.
The game has three
bonus rounds. The Slot Machine bonus starts when three or more antique
slot symbols appear in any position. Three antique slot machines fill
the screen. Pick one and you win its credit value.
The Real Find bonus
begins when three Real Find symbols appear on reels one, two and three
of a played line. In the first round, five antiques appear on the screen.
As you select them, you find out if theyre real or
cheap imitations. When youve made all your picks, you move on
to the second round where you choose the most valuable antiques. At
the end of the round, all the credits are totaled up on individual meters.
You could win 15 to 250 credits times your initial bet.
The most fun bonus
round is the Ask The Expert bonus which starts when three Ask The Expert
symbols appear on reels one, two and three of a played line. The scene
shifts to a study that could easily be in a mansion. You choose one
of the antiques on display, such as a plate, a painting, a sewing machine,
a tray or a model boat. You also choose four of eight certificates of
authenticity. Each certificate indicates a positive credit value, a
negative credit value or a multiplier from two to five. The adjusted
value of the antique is then offered. You can accept it and the bonus
ends, or you can reject it and opt for a second opinion.
For example, I chose
the tray, and it appraised at 85 credits. Hmmm, I thought it might be
worth more so I went for the second opinion. The appraiser
appeared on the screen praising my choice. I got extra credits for a
24 karat gold trim, the manufacturers engraving date in the 19th
century and gold filigree detailing. I did lose a few credits for a
dent and evidence of flaking. But when all was said and
done the appraiser told me, Wow! You should be very proud of yourself!
You could be an expert too! Final total: 165 points. Not exactly
like discovering a necklace that belonged to Cleopatra, but decent enough.
I suppose my expertise
comes from years of watching Antiques Roadshow if not from
playing slot machines. Still, Antique Appraisal is a clever and enjoyable
game, and another excellent example of what Ive said so many times
before: that practically ANYTHING can be turned into a slot machine
theme! Until next time, enjoy Life Among the Slots.