Modern online slots have evolved to include features that let players access bonus rounds immediately rather than wait for them to trigger naturally. This innovation, known as the bonus buy feature, has turned many gaming sessions upside down because, today, players no longer need to depend on luck alone.
But is the feature worth it? Or should you wait for a bonus to occur on its own? Below, we explore situations when both tactics make perfect sense.
What Are Bonus Buy Features
Bonus buy mechanics (sometimes called feature buys) allow players to pay a premium to instantly trigger the main bonus feature of a slot game. This bypasses the often lengthy process of waiting for scatter symbols or other trigger mechanisms to appear naturally during base gameplay.
How Bonus Buy Mechanics Work
When you opt to use the casino buy bonus feature, you’ll pay an upfront fee that’s calculated as a multiple of your current bet. In return, you’re guaranteed immediate entry to the slot’s main bonus round — typically free spins with enhanced features or multipliers.
The mathematics behind this playmode is carefully balanced. While the cost seems steep, providers design these rounds to offer a theoretical return to player (RTP) that’s comparable to — and sometimes higher than — the base game’s RTP.
| Bonus Buy Cost (Multiple of Base Bet) | Typical Game Types | Potential Advantage | Potential Disadvantage |
| 50x-75x | Low volatility, frequent bonus games | Lower cost, less risk | Typically lower maximum win potential |
| 76x-100x | Medium volatility slots | Balanced approach | Moderate risk with moderate reward |
| 101x-150x | High volatility slots | Access to the highest potential payouts | Significant bankroll impact, higher risk |
| 150x+ | Extreme volatility slots | Maximum win potential | Very high risk, rapid bankroll depletion |
When Buying the Bonus Makes Sense
For High RTP Bonus Rounds
Some slots actually increase their RTP during the bonus rounds. If you check out any selection of slots with the bonus buy feature, you’ll see that most feature the same RTPs, regardless of playmode. However, certain titles offer a higher theoretical return when using the bonus buy option — and here, the game is worth the candle. Look specifically for titles where the bonus buy RTP exceeds the base game RTP by at least 1-2%.
In Demo Mode
Many slots with bonuses have free game modes where players can get acquainted with the mechanics. Using a bonus buy feature in this mode allows you to:
- Experience the slot’s main attraction immediately;
- Assess whether the bonus round justifies extended play;
- Understand the game’s volatility and payout patterns;
- Make an informed decision about further play.
Many experienced players use the slots buy bonus feature as an efficient “scouting” mechanism when evaluating new releases.
Limited Playing Time
If your gaming sessions are time-constrained, premium options can concentrate the full gaming experience into a shorter timeframe. Rather than spend an hour hoping to trigger a bonus naturally, you can purchase several bonus rounds directly. Here, the trick is to keep records — i.e., via a dedicated journal — to see if the value you’re getting matches your expectations.
When to Skip the Bonus Buy
Despite their appeal, bonus buy features aren’t always the optimal choice:
High Base Game Entertainment Value
Many slots offer engaging base game mechanics with regular small to medium wins, wilds, and mini-features that create an entertaining experience. Games from providers like ELK Studios and Relax Gaming often excel in this regard. If you enjoy the journey as much as the destination, playing naturally might provide better entertainment value.
Lower Bankroll Situations
The substantial cost of bonus buy features makes them inappropriate for players with limited bankrolls. When your funds are restricted, the high variance of bonus rounds can quickly deplete your balance.
Games with Frequent Natural Triggers
Some slots are designed to trigger bonus rounds more frequently than others. For these games, the value proposition of paying a premium for immediate access diminishes significantly.
Final Thoughts
The bonus buy feature is one of the most significant innovations in modern slot design, offering players unprecedented control over their gaming experience. When used strategically, this mechanic can enhance gameplay, provide immediate access to the most exciting elements of a slot, and occasionally deliver exceptional results. However, players should carefully balance both tactics if they aim for the ultimate gaming experience.
