What are bonus games?
A bonus game is an extra feature or round within a slot game. Depending on the game, it might be triggered by special symbols, specific combinations or other in-game events.
Bonus games can look different from one game to the next. Some may take you to a separate feature screen, while others add an extra round or different feature within the game.
In this guide, we'll explain what bonus games are, how they're triggered and how they differ from other features, such as free spins (free plays).
How are bonus games triggered?
Bonus games don't work in exactly the same way across every slot game. The game rules will explain what needs to happen before a bonus feature becomes available.
Bonus symbols
Some games use special bonus symbols to trigger a bonus game. Depending on the game rules, a certain number of these symbols might need to appear before the feature is activated.
Scatter symbols
Scatter symbols can also trigger bonus features in some games. Unlike regular symbols, they might not need to appear on a specific line to activate the feature.
Specific symbol combinations
Some bonus games are triggered when certain combinations of symbols appear. The game information explains which combinations apply and how the feature works.
In-game events
Some games include their own unique mechanics that can unlock bonus features during play. These events vary from game to game and are explained in the game rules.
Why do slot games have bonus games?
Bonus games help add variety to a slot game. While the main game follows one set of rules, a bonus feature can introduce something different for a short time, whether that's a separate screen or a new way to play.
Because every game is designed differently, bonus features can vary from one slot to the next. Some introduce additional rounds or unique mechanics, while others offer a choice between different bonus experiences.
What happens during a bonus game?
Bonus games are designed to add something extra to the main game. Once triggered, they can introduce a new feature, different mechanics or an extra round of gameplay before returning to the main game.
Different screens and features
Some bonus games take you to a separate feature screen, while others bring new elements into the main game itself. Exactly what happens depends on the game you're playing.
Different rules
Bonus games might work differently from the main game. Depending on the feature, you might see different symbols, prize opportunities or mechanics that aren't available during regular play.
Check the game information
Bonus games are usually triggered and played automatically according to the game's rules. The game information will explain how the feature works and what happens once it begins.
No two bonus games are exactly alike. Some bonus games involve choosing symbols or making selections, while others introduce extra rounds, special features or different mechanics.
Some games also give players a choice between more than one bonus feature once the bonus round has been triggered. Depending on the game, each option might offer a different feature while still forming part of the same overall game.
Examples currently include:
- Wolf Moon
- Hula Hook
- Oceans Bounty
- Reel Outlaws Express
The type of bonus game available will depend on the individual slot game and its design. That's why it's always worth checking the game information before you play.
Bonus games vs free spins
Bonus games and free spins are often mentioned together, but they're not the same thing.
Bonus games
Bonus games are extra features or rounds within a game. They might introduce different rules, mechanics or gameplay for a short period of time.
Free spins
Free spins are a specific type of feature where spins are awarded without using a player's cash balance for those spins.
Some games include free spins as part of a bonus feature, while others keep free spins and bonus games separate.
If you'd like to learn more, read our guide to What are free spins?
Things to remember about bonus games
Bonus games can add extra features and gameplay to a slot game, but they don't work in the same way across every title.
- Bonus games are extra features within a slot game
- Different games trigger them in different ways
- Some use bonus or scatter symbols
- Bonus features may work differently from the main game
- The game information explains how each feature works
If you're exploring a new game, it's always worth taking a look at the game information first so that you understand how its features work.
Ready to learn more?
Now that you know what bonus games are, you might find these guides useful too.
What are Free Spins?
Learn how free spins work and how they differ from other game features.
Slot features explained
Discover common slot features, special symbols and game mechanics that can appear in different games.
What are bonus games?
Learn how bonus games are triggered, what they involve and how they can add an extra twist to your gameplay.
What are jackpots?
Find out how fixed and progressive jackpots work.
A quick recap
A bonus game is an extra feature or round within a slot game. Depending on the game, it may be triggered by bonus symbols, scatter symbols, specific combinations or other game mechanics.
Bonus games can introduce different rules, features or mechanics, and they aren't the same as free spins. The game information explains how each bonus feature works and what happens when it is triggered.