Ever wanted to skip straight to a slot's bonus round? Bonus buy slots are designed to provide direct access to bonus features instead of waiting for them to appear through standard gameplay.
This guide explains how bonus buy features work, how they are priced, the types of games that previously included them, and the rules that apply to UK players. You'll also find information on common misconceptions and the main points players consider when thinking about using these features in jurisdictions where they are permitted.
Read on to learn more.
What Are Bonus Buy Slots?
Bonus buy slots are online slot games that include an option to pay an additional amount for immediate entry into a bonus feature, most commonly a free spins round. Instead of triggering the feature through standard gameplay, eligible players in certain jurisdictions may purchase direct access.
The cost is normally displayed within the game and is usually based on the current stake. Prices differ between games and software providers.
If you are playing with a UKGC-licensed casino, this feature will not be available because bonus buy options are prohibited for UK players.
You must be at least 18 to play online slots in the UK.
How Does Buying The Bonus Feature Work?
In jurisdictions where bonus buy features are permitted, eligible games display an on-screen option showing the cost of entering the bonus feature immediately. The price is often expressed as a multiple of the current stake, such as 50x or 100x.
After confirming the purchase, the cost is deducted from the balance and the game moves directly into the bonus feature, which might consist of free spins, respins or another bonus mechanic. The results are still determined by the game's random number generator in the same way as every other spin.
UK players using licensed operators will not have access to this feature because UKGC rules prohibit bonus buy options.
Are Bonus Buy Slots Legal & Safe In The UK?
No. Bonus buy features are not permitted at casinos licensed by the UK Gambling Commission. The restriction came into effect in October 2021 as part of wider gambling reform.
As a result, UKGC-licensed operators do not offer bonus buy features to UK customers.
If a website claims to offer bonus buy slots to UK players, it might not hold the appropriate UK licence. Playing with operators that are not licensed by the UKGC may mean UK consumers do not receive the protections provided by UK regulation.
Licensed UK operators provide:
- Independent regulatory oversight.
- Games that have been tested for fairness and randomness.
- Access to gambling support tools, including deposit limits, time-outs and self-exclusion.
If you are unsure whether an operator holds a UK licence, check the UK Gambling Commission public register before opening an account.
The Pros & Cons Of Buying Bonuses
The following points apply only in jurisdictions where bonus buy features are permitted.
Pros
- Immediate access to a game's bonus feature.
- The cost of the feature is displayed before purchase.
- Different games may offer different bonus mechanics through this option.
Cons
- The purchase price is often many times higher than the selected stake.
- Buying a bonus does not alter the game's random outcomes or guarantee a return.
- Multiple purchases may result in spending increasing quickly.
UK players using licensed operators will not have access to this feature.
Play responsibly and only spend money you are prepared to lose.
Key Features To Look For In Bonus Buy Slots
For players in jurisdictions where bonus buy features are permitted, several game features may be worth reviewing.
Return to Player (RTP): RTP is the theoretical percentage a game returns over many spins. Individual sessions may differ from this figure.
Volatility: Volatility describes how frequently payouts might occur and their typical size. Higher-volatility games may produce less frequent but larger payouts, while lower-volatility titles may pay smaller amounts more often.
Bonus Round Type: Bonus features differ between games. These might include free spins, respins, multipliers or other mechanics.
Clarity of Cost: The purchase price should be clearly displayed before the feature is activated.
Presentation and theme may also differ between titles, although UK players will not find bonus buy features at licensed operators.
Popular Bonus Buy Slot Games In The UK
Before the UKGC prohibition took effect, several slot games became well known for including bonus buy features.
These titles demonstrated different approaches to bonus mechanics and feature design. Although the games themselves may still be available at UKGC-licensed casinos, the bonus buy option has been removed for UK players.
Standout Characteristics Of Top Games
Money Train 2 (Relax Gaming)
Money Train 2 included a Buy Feature that provided direct entry into its bonus round. The game became known for modifier symbols and multiplier mechanics during the feature.
At UKGC-licensed casinos, the bonus buy option is not available.
Dead or Alive 2 (NetEnt)
Dead or Alive 2 features several free spins modes with sticky wild mechanics. While bonus buy functionality existed in some markets, UK-licensed operators do not offer this option.
Jammin’ Jars (Push Gaming)
Jammin’ Jars uses cluster pays, cascading symbols and increasing multipliers. In markets where bonus buy features are permitted, players may purchase entry into the bonus feature.
This option is not available through UKGC-licensed casinos.
How To Choose Where To Play Bonus Buy Slots
If you are in the UK, choose operators that are licensed by the UK Gambling Commission.
Although bonus buy features are unavailable at licensed UK casinos, players may still compare operators by considering factors such as licensing, customer support, software providers, payment methods and responsible gambling tools.
Reading independent reviews and checking licence information may also help before opening an account.
Common Myths About Buying Slot Bonuses
A common misconception is that purchasing a bonus improves the chances of receiving a higher payout. This is not correct. The results within the bonus feature are still determined by the game's random number generator.
Another myth is that bonus buy features are available at UKGC-licensed casinos. They are not. UK regulations prohibit licensed operators from offering this functionality to UK players.
Checking official information from licensed operators and the UK Gambling Commission is the most reliable way to verify claims about bonus buy features.
FAQs About Bonus Buy Slots
Are bonus buy slots legal in the UK?
No. Bonus buy features are prohibited at UK Gambling Commission licensed online casinos.
Why did the UK ban bonus buy features?
The UK Gambling Commission introduced the prohibition in October 2021 as part of wider regulatory changes intended to reduce gambling-related harm.
Do bonus buys make it easier to win?
No. Purchasing a bonus does not change the game's random outcomes or guarantee a payout.
Are bonus buy slots available on non-UK sites?
Some operators outside the UK may offer bonus buy features. UK players should check whether an operator is appropriately licensed before using any gambling website.
What should I do if I am concerned about my gambling?
Deposit limits, time-outs and self-exclusion are available through UKGC-licensed operators. Support is also available from organisations such as GamCare and the National Gambling Support Network.
Choosing UKGC-licensed operators and checking official information may help you make informed decisions about online gambling.
**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.