Wilds not connecting

Getting a bit tilted lately with these bonus rounds where I land three or four wilds, and somehow not a single one lines up for a pay. I know the wild placement is random, but it feels like in the older games, the wilds would at least connect more often during the feature. Now I just watch them drop one on reel two, one on four, one on five, and that’s the whole thing.

I’m used to variance in slots, no biggie, but does anyone else notice this happening more these days? It’s starting to feel like they’re programmed to dodge the pays. I don’t mind a tough game if the structure’s clear, just looking for some cool heads to weigh in.