Booming Games Interview: Shields of Gold Valkyrie Hold and Win

We caught up with Craig Asling from Booming Games to talk about the studio’s latest slot release, Shields of Gold: Valkyrie Hold and Win. 

In this Q&A, Asling shares how the Norse-inspired slot blends classic themes with fresh in-game mechanics, what makes the Wild Transform and Hold and Win features stand out, and how they’ve designed the game to appeal to a wide range of players.

Q: To begin with, can you introduce Shields of Gold: Valkyrie Hold and Win to our readers and explain how it fits into Booming Games’ expanding portfolio? 

A: Shields of Gold: Valkyrie Hold and Win is our latest Norse-inspired slot, blending a timeless theme with fresh mechanics to create an immersive and rewarding experience. 

It’s a perfect example of how we continue to expand our portfolio by pairing proven player favourites with innovative twists, delivering titles that feel familiar yet stand out in a competitive market.

Q: One of the title’s standout features is the Wild Transform mechanic. Can you walk us through how this feature works and why it adds an extra dynamic to gameplay? 

A: The Wild Transform is a brand-new feature we’re particularly excited about. At any moment, Shield symbols landing on reels one and two, along with Wilds on the remaining reels, can transform, awarding instant win cash prizes or even triggering the Hold and Win Bonus. 

This mechanic also plays a key role in Free Spins, where player choice determines whether they’ll see more Shields for frequent Wild Transforms, or an increased number of Wilds on reel five for epic win potential. It’s a feature that keeps players engaged with every spin.

Q: Hold and Win Respins also offers an intriguing twist to bonus play. Why do you believe players will be drawn in by this twist on the classic mechanic? 

A: Hold and Win has become a fan-favourite video slot mechanic, and we wanted to build on that popularity with our own take. In Shields of Gold, players not only chase the thrill of filling the reels with Shields but also benefit from the added excitement of the Wild Transform leading into the feature. 

It’s a mechanic that feels familiar, but with enough innovation to keep it fresh and rewarding. On top of triggering this, the unlocked Shield guarantees one of the Prize Pot values, offering up to 100x just for one symbol!

Q: Vikings are a timeless theme in slots. How did you approach the design of Shields of Gold: Valkyrie Hold and Win to ensure it stands out from other Norse-inspired releases?

A: We know the Viking theme is popular, so our focus was on authenticity paired with creativity. The Valkyrie as the Wild takes centre stage, bringing an intriguing character-driven approach that differentiates us from more traditional Viking slots. 

Combined with high-quality visuals and unique gameplay mechanics, the game delivers a distinctive experience that stands out in a crowded genre.

Q: Visuals and audio play a huge role in immersion. Can you share how your team approached the soundtrack and animations to keep players engaged?

A: Our teams worked to ensure every detail, from the dramatic soundtrack to the flowing animations, played their crucial role in supporting the striking mythological theme. 

The music builds anticipation during key moments like Wild Transforms and Hold and Win triggers, while the animations give weight to the Shields and Valkyrie. Together, they create an almost cinematic experience that draws players into the world of the game.

Q: Many players look closely at volatility and hit frequency when choosing a slot. How would you describe the balance in Shields of Gold: Valkyrie Hold and Win, and what type of player do you think it will appeal to most?

A: The game strikes a balanced bonus feature profile, appealing to both casual players and thrill-seekers. Frequent features like Wild Transforms keep the action lively, while the Free Spins and Hold and Win offer high win potential for those who enjoy volatility. It’s designed to be accessible yet exciting, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Q: Free Spins leads with a dual-option approach. What inspired this inclusion?

A: Giving players greater freedom of choice adds an extra layer of engagement. Some prefer steady, more frequent wins, while others love chasing bigger risks for bigger rewards. 

By allowing players to choose between more Shields for Wild Transforms or more Wilds on reel five, we’ve put strategy in their hands, making Free Spins a personalised and dynamic experience.

Q: Responsible entertainment is increasingly valued by players. How does Booming Games ensure that its slots deliver excitement while keeping player well-being in mind?

A: Responsible gaming is central to everything we do. All of our titles are designed with compliance at the forefront, meeting strict regulatory standards across markets. 

Beyond that, we focus on clear gameplay, transparent mechanics, and features that prioritise entertainment without misleading players. Our goal is always to create exciting, fun experiences within a safe and responsible framework.

Q: Finally, looking ahead, are there any upcoming titles from Booming Games that you’re particularly excited about that you can share a sneak peek of?

A: Absolutely! Our roadmap for the coming months is jam-packed with captivating content. While I can’t reveal everything just yet, players can look forward to more bold mechanics, fresh themes, and high-quality online slots that push our portfolio even further. 

Each upcoming title is built with the same love and philosophy as Shields of Gold - combining proven engagement with innovative features that surprise and delight.

Start Your Own Viking Adventure

If this bold and adventure-filled slot has sparked your imagination, you can play it (along with the rest of the Booming Games library) at our recommended online casinos!

Don’t forget to take advantage of the welcome bonuses available through our safe links, giving you extra spins and more time to enjoy this hot new Norse adventure.