Bonus Buy features in online slots have become a significant innovation in the online gambling industry, offering players a unique way to engage with slot games. Here are some fascinating facts about Bonus Buy in online slots:
1. Origin and Popularity
The concept of Bonus Buy, also known as Feature Buy, was popularized by Big Time Gaming with the release of their slot game Extra Chilli. This feature allows players to bypass the traditional gameplay to directly access bonus rounds, such as free spins or special game modes, by paying a premium . Since its introduction, the Bonus Buy feature has seen widespread adoption across the industry, with many game developers, including Nolimit City, Hacksaw Gaming, Pragmatic Play, and Relax Gaming, incorporating it into their slot offerings.
2. Cost of Bonus Buys
The cost to activate the Bonus Buy feature typically ranges from 50 to 200 times the player’s stake, with 100x being a common multiplier. However, some games may offer this feature for a much higher price, with Nolimit City’s Tombstone RIP slot having a Bonus Buy cost as high as 3,000x the bet. This cost is calculated based on the average expected cost to trigger a bonus round naturally during gameplay.
3. Impact on Return to Player (RTP)
The RTP (Return to Player) of a slot game can be affected by the use of the Bonus Buy feature. In some cases, purchasing the bonus round can increase the game’s RTP, offering potentially better returns to the player. However, this is not always the case, as the RTP may decrease or remain the same after using the Bonus Buy function4. Players should check the game’s information to understand how the feature affects RTP.
4. Regulatory Considerations
Due to concerns about responsible gambling, the Bonus Buy feature has been banned in certain jurisdictions, such as the United Kingdom. Regulators in these areas have cited the potential for increased gambling harm as a reason for the restriction, arguing that the feature might encourage players to spend more than they can afford in pursuit of big wins.
5. Benefits and Risks
The Bonus Buy feature offers several benefits, including immediate access to a game’s most exciting and potentially lucrative bonus rounds, saving time for players who prefer not to wait for these features to be triggered naturally. However, it also comes with risks, as the cost of purchasing the bonus can significantly impact a player’s bankroll. Players are advised to use this feature responsibly, considering their budget and the potential for higher volatility.
6. Innovation and Variety
Game developers continue to innovate within the Bonus Buy space, offering various options and enhancements when players opt to purchase bonuses. These can include additional free spins, higher multipliers, or even guaranteed wins during the bonus rounds . This variety adds an extra layer of strategy and excitement to the gameplay, as players can choose the type of bonus that best suits their playing style and risk tolerance.
In summary, the Bonus Buy feature in online slots represents a significant shift in how players interact with slot games, offering a shortcut to the most thrilling parts of the game at a cost. While it has been embraced by many players for its convenience and potential for big wins, it also raises questions about responsible gambling and game balance. As with all gambling activities, it’s important for players to approach Bonus Buy features with caution and to gamble responsibly.
How Do Bonus Buy Slots Differ From Regular Slots
Bonus Buy slots and regular slots differ in several key aspects, primarily in how players can access bonus features and the overall gameplay experience. Here’s a detailed comparison:
Instant Access to Bonus Features
Bonus Buy Slots: Allow players to pay a premium, often a multiple of their stake, to instantly access the game’s bonus features, such as free spins, multipliers, or special game modes.This option bypasses the need to trigger these features through standard gameplay.
Regular Slots: Require players to trigger bonus features organically, usually by landing a specific combination of symbols. This can add an element of suspense but also means players may experience long periods without accessing these potentially lucrative features.
Cost and Bankroll Management
Bonus Buy Slots: The cost to activate the bonus feature is typically set between 50 to 100 times the player’s stake, though it can be higher. This can significantly impact a player’s bankroll, making it essential to play responsibly and within one’s means
Regular Slots: No additional cost is required to trigger bonus features beyond the standard bet. This can be more budget-friendly and allows for longer gameplay sessions without significantly impacting the player’s bankroll.
Return to Player (RTP) and Volatility
Bonus Buy Slots: Often feature a higher RTP when the Bonus Buy option is activated, potentially increasing a player’s winning odds. However, these slots can also exhibit higher volatility, meaning they may offer larger but less frequent payouts
Regular Slots: The RTP and volatility are consistent throughout the game, regardless of how bonus features are triggered. Players experience the game’s designed balance between risk and reward without the need to pay extra.
Regulatory Considerations
Bonus Buy Slots: Not universally accepted, with some jurisdictions, such as the UK, banning the feature due to concerns over responsible gambling and the potential for players to spend beyond their means
Regular Slots: Widely available and subject to standard online gambling regulations, without the specific concerns associated with the Bonus Buy feature.
Gameplay Experience
Bonus Buy Slots: Offer a shortcut to the most exciting parts of the game, appealing to players who prefer immediate action over the traditional slot experience
Regular Slots: Provide a traditional slot experience where anticipation and the thrill of hitting bonus features organically are part of the appeal. This can be more satisfying for players who enjoy the buildup to bonus rounds.
In summary, Bonus Buy slots cater to players looking for instant access to a game’s most exciting features, potentially at a higher cost and with an increased RTP during the bonus rounds. Regular slots, on the other hand, offer a more traditional experience where bonus features are triggered through gameplay, often appealing to players who prefer anticipation and the challenge of unlocking these features without additional costs.
Popular Bonus Buy Slots
The most popular Bonus Buy slots, based on the information provided, include a variety of titles from different game developers. Here are some of the most well-known slots where you can buy a bonus:
1. Sweet Bonanza – A popular slot by Pragmatic Play that allows players to purchase the bonus feature .
2. Money Train 2 – A highly acclaimed slot from Relax Gaming with a Bonus Buy option that increases the RTP when activated .
3. Ramses Revenge – Another slot from Relax Gaming that offers a Bonus Buy feature .
4. Buffalo Toro – A slot game where players can buy bonuses on mobile devices..
5. Max Megaways – Offers a Bonus Buy option for mobile slot players..
6. The Dog House Megaways – A slot by Pragmatic Play with a Bonus Buy feature.
7. Dead or Alive 2 – A popular NetEnt slot that includes a Bonus Buy option.
8. San Quentin – A slot by Nolimit City that provides a Bonus Buy feature.
9. Fruit Party 2 – Another Pragmatic Play slot with the Bonus Buy option.
10. Extra Chilli Megaways – A game by Big Time Gaming that took the Bonus Buy option to the next level.
11. Deadwood – A slot from Nolimit City that is among the most popular Bonus Buy slots.
12. Buffalo Rising Megaways – A Blueprint Gaming slot that allows players to choose their volatility when buying the bonus.
These slots are known for their engaging gameplay and the option to purchase direct entry into their respective bonus rounds, which can include free spins, multipliers, expanding wilds, or other game modifiers. The cost of activating the Bonus Buy feature typically ranges from 50 to 200 times the player’s stake, with some variations depending on the specific game. Players are advised to consider their budget and the potential risks before using the Bonus Buy feature.
How do bonus buy slots differ from regular slots
Bonus Buy slots significantly alter the gameplay experience in online slots by providing players with the option to directly purchase access to the game’s bonus features, such as free spins, multipliers, or special game modes. This feature impacts the gameplay in several ways:
Instant Access to Bonus Rounds
Direct Entry: Players can bypass the regular spins and go straight to the bonus rounds, which are typically the most exciting and potentially lucrative parts of the game
. This instant access can be particularly appealing to players looking for immediate action or those who have limited time to play.
Financial Considerations
Cost: The cost of activating a Bonus Buy feature is usually set at a multiple of the player’s stake, often around 100x, although this can vary significantly between games
. This upfront cost can have a substantial impact on a player’s bankroll and requires careful budget management.
RTP and Volatility: While the Bonus Buy feature can slightly increase the game’s Return to Player (RTP) percentage, it also introduces a different risk profile. Some players have observed that while bonus buys may offer a higher RTP, the volatility of the outcome can also increase, meaning the potential for both higher wins and more significant losses
Gameplay Experience
Reduced Grind: Players no longer need to endure potentially long stretches of base gameplay without triggering a bonus feature, which can sometimes feel repetitive or uneventful
Increased Excitement: The ability to jump directly to bonus rounds can heighten the excitement and anticipation, as these features often include the game’s most dynamic and visually engaging elements
Psychological and Regulatory Aspects
Risk of Higher Spending: The ease of accessing bonus rounds can lead to players spending more than they might have otherwise, potentially exacerbating issues related to problem gambling
This concern has led to the Bonus Buy feature being banned in some jurisdictions, such as the UK
Perception of Control: Some players might feel that purchasing the bonus gives them more control over the game’s outcome. However, it’s essential to remember that slots are games of chance, and outcomes are determined by random number generators, whether the bonus is bought or triggered naturally
Impact on Strategy
Strategic Considerations: Players might need to adjust their strategies when playing Bonus Buy slots, considering the cost of the feature and its impact on their overall bankroll. Decisions about when to buy bonuses, how often, and at what stake level become crucial parts of the gameplay experience
In summary, Bonus Buy slots offer a distinct gameplay experience that emphasizes immediate access to bonus features at a cost. This option can enhance the excitement and reduce the time spent waiting for bonus triggers but requires careful consideration of the financial and psychological impacts. Players are encouraged to approach Bonus Buy features with awareness and responsibility, keeping in mind the balance between entertainment value and the risks of increased spending.
