Slot machines are the most engaging and fun games at casinos. Bonus features are one of the major attractions of online slots. In addition to making the game more engaging, they also multiply your winnings. Who wouldn’t love some free spins and 10x multipliers?
We will discuss in detail some of the best bonus features and how they work. In this article, you will learn how bonus features can enhance your gameplay and improve your profitability.
What is a Bonus Feature in Online Slots?
Let’s understand the bonus features and their role in slot games. Bonus features are activated when certain conditions are met. These are elements that make the game more dynamic and offer more ways to win.
The most common type of bonus feature that is a huge hit among casino players is the free spins. There is nothing sweeter than a bunch of free spins being activated along with a multiplier. Imagine landing the winning combination on each of the free spins. The potential winnings are mind-boggling.
There is no denying that free spins combined with a multiplier are rewarding. However, bonus features aren’t just that. There is more on offer than just some free games or extra rounds.
Types of Bonus Features
Free Spins
Let’s revisit the most commonly found bonus feature in online slots. Free spins are extra rounds where you can spin the reels without having to stake any real money. In short, you get to spin the reels for free. The rules for activating free spins vary depending on the slot machine.
Generally, free spins are activated when you land a combination of symbols, called a Scatter. For example, in the Mega Moolah slot, landing 3 or more Scatters gives 15 free spins and a 3x multiplier. Every win during these free spins will be multiplied by 3.
Multipliers
This bonus feature does just what the name says – multiply your winnings. Multipliers are generally activated alongside free spins. You will also find slots with an increasing multiplier.
Every time you land a winning combination during the free spins, the multiplier will be increased by 1x. In some slots, it increases by 1x while in others it increases by increments of 5x and 10x.
During the bonus round in the Gonzo’s Quest slot game, the multiplier can increase up to 15x.
Wilds & Expanding Wilds
Wilds are symbols that can be substituted for other symbols to create a winning combination. They are the top-paying symbol in the base game.
Sometimes a Wild is accompanied by a multiplier. In the Mega Moolah slot, for example, landing 5 Wilds pays 15000x your line bet.
Expanding Wilds are symbols that go beyond their position and sometimes cover the entire reel. These can trigger even bigger winnings as they often create more winning combinations.
Bonus Rounds and Mini Games
These bonus features add an interactive element to the slot game and make it more engaging. In the Desert Treasure slot, the bonus round is activated when 3 or more compass symbols land to create a winning combination.
This bonus round is like a mini-game where you are presented with 3 or more chests depending on the number of compass symbols that created a win. Each of these chests has a cash prize and the more you open, the bigger you win.
These engaging bonus rounds and games are also found in the Deal or No Deal slot game that is based on the popular TV show.
Progressive Jackpot
No list of the best bonus features is complete without mentioning the progressive jackpot. Every time a player spins the reels and doesn’t win, the progressive jackpot grows bigger.
Hitting the progressive jackpot is the most rewarding as you are most likely in for life-changing prize money.
Conclusion
Do your research to find the slots with the best bonus features. Slot reviews and info pages on casino sites are some useful resources. Look for online slots with a higher frequency of wins and bonus feature activation. To ensure you get the most for your buck, try your luck at slots with a higher Return-To-Player ratio. Choosing a slot machine from a reputed gaming developer is a good way to start your online slot journey.