This article explains what is a bonus game and all the types of it. The article also shows the best online slots and slot machines with bonus games.
What is a bonus game?
A bonus game in a slot is a special feature that gives gamblers extra chances to win more than the main game offers. It's like hitting a jackpot within a jackpot, where the payout can significantly increase.
Think of bonus feature as a game within a game, often triggered by landing a specific combination of bonus symbols, like wild symbols or scatter symbols.
These bonus rounds vary in form but share a common goal: to improve gameplay and boost the potential for a big win.
The concept of the bonus game revolutionized slot games when it was introduced. It added a new layer of excitement with its minigames, free spins, and intricate animations that brought the gameplay to life. Providers began to incorporate this feature to stand out, offering unique minigames that could range from simple pick-and-choose games to complex storyline-based games.
Also this evolution in slot game design emphasized the importance of the paytable, that explains how these bonus rounds work and how they can lead to a more lucrative payout.
Types of slot machine bonus
Slot machines have evolved to offer many bonus games, a strategy casinos and providers use to keep players engaged and playing longer. The gaming industry has continually innovated, creating bonus games that add depth and excitement beyond the base game.
These bonuses are designed not just for entertainment but also to increase the chances of winning real money, thereby improving the overall casino game experience. Bonus games are critical for players looking to maximize their returns, as they often come with higher RTP percentages and additional paylines, offering more ways to win on top of the standard game.
Free spin bonus
A free spin bonus grants players additional spins without depleting their bankroll.
Triggered within a slot game, this bonus allows for a set number of spins at no cost, with wins added to the player's total.
During a free spins round, players can experience improved features such as multipliers, expanding wilds, or extra paylines, increasing the potential for significant rewards.
Picking bonus
A picking bonus in slots offers players a selection of items on the screen, such as chests, gems, or cards, to reveal hidden rewards.
Each choice can uncover different types of bonuses, including instant cash prizes, multipliers, or even trigger other bonus features. This interactive element adds a layer of strategy, as players must decide which items to select to maximize their winnings.
Respin bonus
A Respin bonus in slot games grants players an extra spin or multiple spins without deducting from their balance. This bonus typically triggers after a specific combination of symbols lands on the reels.
During the respin, certain reels remain fixed, increasing the chance of hitting a winning combination. Respin bonuses add excitement and potential for increased winnings, making each spin more valuable.
Instant win bonus
An Instant Win Bonus in slot games rewards players immediately after it's triggered, without the need for additional spins or games.
This bonus typically results from selecting a specific symbol or hitting a particular combination on the reels. It offers a direct payout, adding credits to the player's balance instantly.
Wilds bonus
A Wild bonus in slot games significantly increases winning chances by substituting other symbols to form winning combinations.
Activating this bonus adds or changes symbols to wilds, increasing paylines. It may also feature sticky or expanding wilds, boosting win potential.
Pathway game bonus
A Pathway game bonus in slots offers a multi-level challenge where players progress through a series of tasks or stages, each offering different rewards.
Triggered by a specific combination of symbols, this bonus requires players to make choices that influence the outcome, leading them through a virtual path filled with potential prizes.
Success at earlier levels unlocks further stages, with the rewards often increasing in value as the player advances. This engaging bonus combines strategy with chance, enhancing the slot experience.
Wheel bonus
A Wheel bonus in slot games is an exciting feature where players spin a wheel to win various prizes.
This bonus is activated by landing specific symbols, leading to a wheel with segments representing different rewards, such as cash payouts, multipliers, or even access to other bonus features.
The outcome depends on where the wheel stops, making each spin a thrilling chance to boost winnings significantly.
Progress bar bonus
A Progress Bar Bonus in slot games is a feature that rewards players based on their gameplay activity. As players make spins, a progress bar fills up.
Once completely filled, the bonus is triggered, offering rewards such as free spins, cash prizes, or entry into other bonus games.
This mechanism encourages continuous play, providing a tangible goal for players to achieve as they enjoy their slot experience.
What are the best bonuses?
Based on popularity, here are the 5 best bonuses:
- Free Spin Bonus: Players love free spins for the extra playtime and winning opportunities they provide without additional bets.
- Picking Bonus: Offers a high level of engagement by allowing players to make choices that reveal hidden prizes.
- Respin Bonus: Valued for giving another chance to win, respins can dramatically change the game's outcome.
- Wheel Bonus: A fan favorite for its visual appeal and the suspense of where the wheel will stop, leading to potential big wins.
- Progress Bar Bonus: Encourages continued play by rewarding players as they fill up a progress bar, leading to guaranteed bonuses.
Can you buy slot bonuses?
Yes, you can buy slot bonuses. Many slots offer the chance to purchase access to their bonus features directly.
How should you pick a bonus game slot?
To pick a bonus game slot, consider the game's volatility and RTP to match your risk tolerance and return expectations.
Bonus game slots vs regular slots
Slots with bonuses and regular slots differ mainly in gameplay complexity and potential rewards.
Bonus slots incorporate features like free spins, picking games, and multi-level challenges, improving engagement and offering players chances for extra wins without additional bets. These games often come with higher volatility, meaning the risk and reward can be greater compared to regular slots.
Regular slots, on the other hand, provide a straightforward experience, focusing on the traditional spin-and-win mechanic without the added layers of bonus games. Regular slots tend to have lower volatility, offering more frequent but smaller wins, making them suitable for players seeking a simpler, more predictable gaming experience.
Which type of slot to play depends on your preference for risk and engagement. If you enjoy interactive gameplay and the possibility of significant rewards, bonus game slots are your best bet. For those who prefer a more relaxed, consistent slot experience, regular slots might be more appealing.
Best online casino slots with bonus games
Here’s the list of the best online casino slots with bonus games:
- Finn and the Swirly Spin: Known for its unique Free Spins Bonus Game, providing a refreshing twist on traditional slot mechanics.
- Avalon 2: Offers a variety of bonus rounds, each adding depth and excitement to the gameplay.
- Immortal Romance: Features a unique Chamber of Spins Game, mixing intriguing storyline elements with rewarding bonus options.
- Game of Thrones: Notable for its amazing slot gamble feature, allowing fans to engage more deeply with the iconic series' theme.
- Starburst: A popular slot game in the United Kingdom, celebrated for its vibrant graphics and exciting gameplay.
Best land-based casino slot with bonus games
Here’s the list of the best land-based casino slots with bonus games:
- Cleopatra: This Egyptian-themed slot machine captivates players with a free spins bonus round, offering 15 free spins coupled with a 3x multiplier, showcasing its enduring appeal.
- Zeus: Set against a backdrop of Greek mythology, this slot presents a 5-reel, 30-payline game, where players can win up to 100 free spins, making it a classic favorite.
- Buffalo: A popular casino game, it offers dynamic gameplay and significant win potential, making it a favorite among slot players.
What is the best free slot with bonus games?
Wheel of Fortune is one of the most loved free slots with bonus games, requiring no download or registration.