In the gaming industry, software developers continually innovate, bringing cutting-edge technology, immersive graphics, and lucrative online casino bonuses. A standout feature that has captured players’ attention is the bonus features in online slot games, which offer the chance to spin the reels for free with the possibility of earning extra winnings. A recent innovative feature is the bonus buy option, available in certain online slot games. This provides a shortcut for players eager to access the free spins bonus round without waiting for it to be triggered naturally.
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What Are Bonus Buy Pokies?
A slot game with the bonus buy feature is referred to as a bonus buy slot game or, in Australia, as bonus buy pokies. Some online casinos categorize their best bonus buy pokies separately, similar to megaways and jackpot titles, to facilitate easier navigation for players. This categorization might give new players the impression that bonus buy pokies are a distinct type of game. In reality, they are standard slot games that offer players the opportunity to buy free spin rounds directly without waiting for the game to trigger them naturally.
These games operate like any other slot game, featuring a variety of themes from ancient civilizations to blockbuster movies. They typically use a modern 5-reel or classic 3-reel grid layout, with pay lines ranging from 10 to 25. There is no set formula for a bonus buy pokie. The concept originated in 2017 when developer Big Time Gaming introduced this option in its game White Rabbit. Since then, many casino software providers have adopted and incorporated the concept into their slot game development.
Internal Working of the Bonus Buy Feature
In most online slots, a bonus round (usually free spins) is triggered when a specific number of scatter symbols or other designated symbols align on the reels in a predetermined winning combination. The number of free spins awarded varies based on the quantity of symbols or other criteria. The core principle remains the same: players get to spin the reels for free with the potential to win real money prizes.
The bonus buy feature allows players to bypass waiting for luck to trigger the free spins bonus. Instead, they can activate it at their discretion by purchasing the option. Players must click the “Buy Bonus” button in the game’s menu to initiate the free spins and pay the required amount. The cost can vary; in most pokies, it ranges from 50x to 500x the standard bet amount for that game.
For instance, if a bonus buy has a price tag of 50x the player’s current bet, which is set at $1 per spin, the cost of the bonus buy will be $50. Paying this amount will instantly trigger the bonus round or activate it on the next spin.
It’s important to note that the payout in the bonus round is usually the same as in the base game. In most games, the Return To Player (RTP) rate or other parameters do not change, offering an equal chance to secure a win as in the regular bonus round. Once the bonus round is complete, regular gameplay resumes.
Tips For Using Bonus Buy
Impulsive use of the bonus buy feature may result in large losses, and players should resist the urge to use the bonus buy option excessively. To get the most out of the feature, it is recommended to use a predefined strategy. If you are considering using the bonus buy feature, these are the key factors to consider:
Cost of Bonus Buy
Assess the value of purchasing this bonus feature. In some games, the cost may be high, making it more sensible to wait for the regular bonus feature to be triggered naturally.
Winning Potential
Consider the cost-to-return ratio. It’s wise to trigger a bonus buy only if the potential rewards outweigh the investment.
Type of Bonus
Analyze the type of bonus offered. It could be a round of free spins, a different version of a special feature, or a mini-game.
Budgetary Considerations
It’s important to factor in the cost of a bonus buy within your gambling budget to ensure responsible gaming and maintain the ability to activate the option when desired.
Final Thoughts
Bonus buy slots or pokies allow players to experience the excitement of online slot games with the added thrill of triggering a free spins bonus round on demand for an additional cost. This option can be both enjoyable and potentially unlock some wins. However, it’s important to remember that this feature does not guarantee wins. It merely provides the opportunity to go directly into a bonus round, which functions identically to the bonus round triggered naturally during regular gameplay.
