List of Bonus Buy Slots We Reviewed
What are Bonus Buy Slots?
If you’re an avid online slots player, you might have come across the term “Bonus Buy” or “Feature Buy” slots. These are a type of online slot game that allow you to skip the base game and instantly access the bonus features by paying a fixed amount.
This innovative feature has taken the online casino world by storm, offering players a more exciting way of playing slots.
How does the Bonus Buy feature work?
Very simple. Instead of waiting for the bonus features to trigger randomly during the slots base game, you can choose to buy your way directly into the bonus round. The cost of the Bonus Buy varies depending on the game and the potential win multiple.
In most cases, however, it will cost 100x your base bet. Once you’ve made the purchase, you’ll be transported straight into the bonus game, where you can enjoy the excitement of free spins, multipliers, and any other special features the game has in store.
What are the Advantages of Buying the Slots Bonus Feature?
There are 3 main advantages of using the Bonus Buy feature:
- Firstly, it saves you time and allows you to jump straight into the action. No more waiting around for the bonus to trigger naturally. And if you’re an avid slots player, like me, you know how long some games take to trigger the bonus round!
- Secondly, it gives you more control over your gameplay. If you’re feeling lucky or have a limited budget, you can choose to buy the bonus round directly and avoid spending money on the base game spins at the risk of never triggering the bonus round before your funds run out.
- Another potential advantage is that many Bonus Buy slots offer higher RTPs (Return to Player) during the bonus rounds, meaning you have a better chance of winning compared to the base game. However this is only an advantage if the cost of buying the bonus is not skewed upwards.
The History of Bonus Buy Slots
The Bonus Buy feature was first introduced by Big Time Gaming (BTG), an innovative slots provider known for their groundbreaking Megaways mechanic.
In 2017, BTG launched White Rabbit, the first-ever slot to include the “Feature Drop” option, allowing players to buy direct access to the bonus round. This revolutionary buy feature option, quickly gained popularity among players, slots streamers and other slot providers.
White Rabbit gave players the option to purchase the bonus round for 100x their stake, which triggers 15 free spins with expanding reels and multipliers. This groundbreaking slot paved the way for many other Bonus Buy titles that followed.
However, the introduction of the Bonus Buy feature was not without controversy. In 2019, the UK Gambling Commission banned Bonus Buy slots, citing concerns over player protection and responsible gambling. The commission argued that the buy feature slots could encourage players to spend more money than they intended and potentially lead to problem gambling.
The ban was met with mixed reactions from players and industry experts. Some praised the decision, stating that it would help protect vulnerable players from harm. Others argued that the ban was unnecessary and that players should have the freedom to choose how they spend their money.
Despite the ban, Bonus Buy slots remain popular in other regulated markets around the world.
The Popularity of Bonus Buy Slots
So, why have Bonus Buy slots become so popular among online casino players? The answer lies in the instant gratification and increased chances of winning big.
With Bonus Buy slots, players can skip the base game and jump straight into the bonus round, where the real excitement and potential for big wins lie.
Rather than waiting for the bonus to trigger organically, which can take hundreds of spins, players can simply purchase the bonus and start playing immediately. This is particularly appealing to players who have limited time or a set budget.
Another reason for the popularity of Bonus Buy slots is the increased chances of winning big.
Let’s face it, in most slot games, the biggest payout usually comes when you trigger the bonus round. So, unlike the base game spins where you can expect on average a return multiple of maybe 1x to 20x, most of the times, during the bonus rounds, you know that the win multiple can go crazy with some slots paying thousands times the bet amount.
Obviously one must keep in mind that to buy the bonus round you are already paying around 100x the base game bet amount, so unless you actually win over 100x, you are actually coming out with a net loss.
Apart from the big win potential, Bonus rounds often come with exciting features like free spins, multipliers, and expanding reels, which make the game that much more exciting. The thrill of potentially landing a life-changing sum of money is a major draw for many players.
In recent years, the popularity of Bonus Buy slots has skyrocketed, with more and more providers adding the feature to their games. Some game providers are actually giving players the option to choose between 3, 4 or 5 different types of bonus buys, ranking from the simple bonus round, to the full feature bonus round that can pay out the largest wins.
The Influence of Online Slots Streamers
In recent years, another significant factor contributing to the popularity of Bonus Buy slots is the rise of online slots streamers. These streamers, who broadcast their gameplay on platforms like Twitch and YouTube, have played a pivotal role in making Bonus Buy slots a hot favorite among viewers and players alike.
Online slots streamers thrive on excitement and high-stakes action. By purchasing bonus rounds, they can skip the slower-paced base game and dive straight into the heart-pounding bonus features that viewers crave.
This not only makes for more engaging content but also allows streamers to showcase the most thrilling aspects of the game, like massive multipliers and big wins.
The immediate access to bonus rounds creates a spectacle that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The unpredictability and potential for huge payouts make for dramatic and entertaining streams.
The influence of streamers on player behavior is substantial. When viewers see their favorite streamers hitting big wins in Bonus Buy slots, they are often inspired to try their luck with the same games. The visual and emotional appeal of these streams can make the bonus buy feature seem more appealing, as players hope to replicate the success they witness on screen.
Many online casinos and game developers have recognized the marketing potential of popular streamers and have formed partnerships to promote their Bonus Buy slots. Streamers often receive incentives to play and showcase specific games, further driving the visibility and popularity of these slots.
Top Buy Feature Slots
Now that you’re familiar with the concept of Bonus Buy slots, let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular and exciting titles available in the market.
Money Train 2 by Relax Gaming
Money Train 2 is a wild west-themed slot developed by Relax Gaming. The base game takes place on a 5×4 grid with 40 paylines. The game’s most exciting feature is the Money Cart Bonus Round, which can be triggered by landing three or more bonus symbols or purchased directly using the Bonus Buy option.
In the Money Cart Bonus Round, players are presented with a 5×4 grid filled with special symbols, including multipliers, free spins, and collector symbols. The round starts with three spins, and each time a new symbol lands on the reels, the spin count resets to three. The objective is to collect as many symbols as possible before running out of spins.
The bonus round ends when no new symbols appear in three consecutive spins, and the player’s winnings are calculated based on the accumulated symbols and multipliers.
The Bonus Buy option in Money Train 2 allows players to purchase direct access to the Money Cart Bonus Round for 100x their stake. Players can win up to 50,000x their stake in the bonus round, making it one of the most lucrative Bonus Buy options available.
Extra Chilli by Big Time Gaming
Extra Chilli is a Mexican-themed slot developed by Big Time Gaming, the pioneers of the Bonus Buy feature. This game is a six-reel slot with a variable number of rows, based on the innovative Megaways mechanic. This means that the number of paylines changes with each spin, offering up to 117,649 ways to win. The symbols include various Mexican-inspired items like chili peppers, tacos, and tequila bottles.
Once again, the game’s main attraction is the free spins feature, which is triggered by landing three or more scatter symbols. During the free spins, a win multiplier starts at 1x and increases by 1x with each winning reaction.
Players can choose to buy their way into the free spins feature using the Bonus Buy option at a cost of 50x the stake, and furthermore, once bought, players can choose to gamble their free spins to potentially increase the number of spins or the starting multiplier. This adds an extra layer of excitement and risk to the gameplay.
Deadwood by Nolimit City
Deadwood is another wild west-themed slot, this time developed by Nolimit City. This game is known for its high volatility and enormous potential payouts.
The base game takes place on a 5×4 grid with 576 ways to win. The symbols include various characters from the wild west, such as a sheriff, a bandit, and a saloon girl. The free spins bonus round is triggered by landing three or more scatter symbols or by using the Bonus Buy option.
In the bonus round, players can choose between two different free spin modes: the Hunter Spins or the Gunslinger Spins. The Hunter Spins offer 8 free spins with lower volatility, while the Gunslinger Spins offer 10 free spins with higher volatility and the potential for bigger wins.
The cost of the bonus buy on Deadwood varies depending on the chosen free spins mode, with the Hunter Spins costing 72x the stake and the Gunslinger Spins costing 750x the stake. While the Gunslinger Spins may seem expensive, they offer the chance to win up to 13,950x the player’s stake.
Bonus Buy Slots Providers
While Big Time Gaming may have pioneered the Bonus Buy feature, many other slot providers have since jumped on the bandwagon, offering their own unique takes on this exciting mechanic.
Big Time Gaming Bonus Buy Slots
Since launching their first bonus buy slot (White Rabbit) in 2017, BTG have released several other popular Bonus Buy titles, including Extra Chilli, Who Wants to Be a Millionaire, and Bonanza.
Relax Gaming Bonus Buy Slots
Relax Gaming is another major player in the Bonus Buy slots market, with titles like Money Train 2 and Temple Tumble attracting a dedicated following.
Nolimit City
Nolimit City has made a name for themselves with their edgy, high-payout, high-volatility slots like Deadwood and Tombstone. Their Bonus Buy slots often feature multiple bonus round options, allowing players to choose between lower volatility with more frequent wins or higher volatility with the potential for bigger payouts.
Other notable Bonus Buy slots providers
Many other slot providers have embraced the Bonus Buy trend, offering a wide variety of titles to suit different tastes and preferences. Some notable mentions include:
- Pragmatic Play (Buffalo King, The Dog House Megaways)
- Quickspin (Nero’s Fortune, Artemis vs Medusa)
- iSoftBet (Aztec Gold Megaways, Moriarty Megaways)
- ELK Studios (Nitropolis, Cygnus)
With so many providers offering Bonus Buy slots, players are spoiled for choice when it comes to finding their perfect game.
Complete List of Bonus Buy Slots
To help you explore the world of Bonus Buy slots, we’ve compiled an alphabetical list of the most popular titles, along with their provider, Bonus Buy cost, and RTP.
| Slot Name | Provider | Bonus Buy Cost | RTP |
| 1 Million Megaways BC | Iron Dog Studio | 100x stake | 96.20% |
| 10,000 Wishes | Microgaming | 100x stake | 96.27% |
| 1000x Busta | Hacksaw Gaming | 129.50x stake | 96.39% |
| 300 Shields Mighty Ways | Light & Wonder | 60x stake | 95.30% |
| 3 Fruits Win: Double Hit | Playson | 100x stake | 96.48% |
| 4 Diamond Blues Megaways | Buck Stakes | 80x stake | 96.10% |
| 88 Fortunes Megaways | Light & Wonder | 75x stake | 96.06% |
| Atlantis Megaways | ReelPlay | 75x stake | 96.10% |
| Aztec Gold Extra Gold Megaways | iSoftBet | 75x stake | 96.20% |
| Big Bass Bonanza | Pragmatic Play | 100x stake | 96.71% |
| Black Gold Megaways | StakeLogic | 50x stake | 96.10% |
| Bonanza Megaways | Big Time Gaming | 100x stake | 96.00% |
| Book of Shadows | Nolimit City | 68x stake | 96.01% |
| Buffalo King Megaways | Pragmatic Play | 100x stake | 96.06% |
| Buffalo Rising All Action Megaways | Blueprint Gaming | 85x stake | 96.50% |
| Cyberslot Megaclusters | Big Time Gaming | 100x stake | 96.36% |
| Dragon Tribe | Nolimit City | 80x stake | 96.09% |
| Dynamite Riches Megaways | Red Tiger | 80x stake | 95.71% |
| East Coast vs West Coast | Nolimit City | 98x stake | 96.04% |
| Fruit Shop Megaways | NetEnt | 97x stake | 96.06% |
| Gonzo’s Gold | NetEnt | 125x stake | 96.11% |
| Great Rhino Megaways | Pragmatic Play | 100x stake | 96.58% |
| Joker Bombs | Kalamba Games | 2,000x stake | 97.69% |
| Joker Troupe | Push Gaming | 100x stake | 96.68% |
| King of Cats | Big Time Gaming | 80x stake | 96.72% |
| Lil Devil | Big Time Gaming | 120x stake | 96.43% |
| Madame Destiny Megaways | Pragmatic Play | 100x stake | 96.56% |
| Medusa Megaways | NextGen | 75x stake | 97.63% |
| Monopoly Megaways | Big Time Gaming | 80x stake | 96.50% |
| Moriarty Megaways | iSoftBet | 75x stake | 96.22% |
| Multifly | Yggdrasil | 125x stake | 96.30% |
| Mystery Museum | Push Gaming | 80x stake | 96.58% |
| Nero’s Fortune | Quickspin | 100x stake | 96.24% |
| Nitropolis | ELK Studios | 200x stake | 96.10% |
| Ozzy Osbourne Video Slots | NetEnt | 200x stake | 96.67% |
| Pirate Gold Deluxe | Pragmatic Play | 100x stake | 96.48% |
| Primal Megaways | Blueprint Gaming | 75x stake | 96.76% |
| Punk Toilet | Nolimit City | 66x stake | 96.06% |
| San Quentin xWays | Nolimit City | 2,000x stake | 96.03% |
| Survivor Megaways | Big Time Gaming | 75x stake | 96.47% |
| Temple Tumble Megaways | Relax Gaming | 80x stake | 96.25% |
| The Final Countdown | Big Time Gaming | 100x stake | 96.65% |
| The Goonies Return | Blueprint Gaming | 97x stake | 96.00% |
| True Grit Redemption | Nolimit City | 97x stake | 96.11% |
| White Rabbit | Big Time Gaming | 100x stake | 97.72% |
| Who Wants to Be a Millionaire Megaways | Big Time Gaming | 100x stake | 96.24% |
| Wild Flower | Big Time Gaming | 120x stake | 96.52% |
| Wizard Shop | Push Gaming | 100x stake | 96.40% |
Please note that this list is not exhaustive, as new Bonus Buy slots are released regularly. Also, keep in mind that the availability of these games may vary depending on your jurisdiction and the online casino you are playing at.
Strengths and Weaknesses of Bonus Buy Slots
Like any feature in online slots feature, the Bonus Buy option comes with its own set of pros and cons. Let’s take a closer look at what we believe are the main aspects when buying the bonus round.
Pros
Instant gratification and excitement: One of the main draws of Bonus Buy slots is the immediate satisfaction they offer. With the ability to jump straight into the bonus round, players can experience the thrill of the game’s most exciting features without having to wait for them to trigger organically.
Potential for huge wins: Bonus rounds in slots are often where the biggest wins can be found. By purchasing direct access to these features, players have the opportunity to land substantial payouts in a short period. Many Bonus Buy slots offer win potential in the range of 10,000x to 50,000x the player’s stake.
Increased RTP during bonus features: Some players believe that bonus rounds have a higher Return to Player (RTP) percentage. For example, the base game of a slot may offer an RTP of 96%, while its bonus round has a 97% RTP.
Cons
High cost of buying bonus features: While the potential rewards of Bonus Buy slots can be big, it’s important to consider the cost of entry. Buying into a bonus round typically requires a significant investment, often 100x the base stake, with some games charging even more. For players on a budget, this steep entry price may be prohibitive or force them to play at lower stakes than they’re comfortable with, potentially affecting the game experience.
Potential for rapid loss of funds: The high cost of buying bonus features, combined with the inherent volatility of slots, means that players can quickly deplete their bankroll if they’re not careful. A few unsuccessful bonus rounds purchased in succession can lead to substantial losses. It’s essential to approach Bonus Buy slots with a clear budget in mind and stick to it.
Controversial and banned in some jurisdictions: Not all regulatory bodies view Bonus Buy slots in a positive light. As already mentioned, in the UK, for example, the Gambling Commission has banned these games due to concerns over their potential to encourage excessive spending and problem gambling.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are Bonus Buy slots fair and reliable?
Yes, Bonus Buy slots developed by reputable providers and offered at licensed online casinos are fair and reliable. These games use certified Random Number Generators (RNGs) to ensure that the outcome of each spin is entirely random and unbiased. However, it’s essential to play at trustworthy casinos and stick to well-known slot providers to guarantee a safe and fair gaming experience.
What is the RTP of Bonus Buy slots compared to regular slots?
The overall RTP of Bonus Buy slots is typically similar to that of regular slots, usually ranging from 96% to 97%. However, the RTP during the bonus rounds purchased through the Bonus Buy feature might be slightly higher than the base game.
Can I win big with Bonus Buy slots?
Bonus Buy slots offer the potential for substantial wins, with many games boasting maximum payouts of 10,000x to 50,000x the player’s stake. However, it’s crucial to remember that these wins are not guaranteed and that slots are inherently volatile. Players should always gamble responsibly and never chase losses or bet more than they can afford.
Are Bonus Buy slots more volatile than regular slots?
Not necessarily, however the bonus round itself can seem more volatile than the base game due to the nature of the bonus features. The high cost of buying into these rounds, combined with the increased potential for big wins, can result in more significant swings in a player’s bankroll.
Where can I play Bonus Buy slots?
Bonus Buy slots are available at numerous online casinos, but their availability may vary depending on your jurisdiction. In the UK, for example, Bonus Buy slots are banned and cannot be played.
Final Verdict on Bonus Buy Slots
It’s a no-brainer that bonus buy slots offer a unique and exciting experience for players seeking instant gratification and the potential for big wins.
That said, it’s also important to approach Bonus Buy slots with caution. The high cost of entry and the increased volatility associated with these games can quickly lead to substantial losses if players aren’t careful. It’s essential to set a clear budget, stick to responsible gambling practices, and never chase losses or bet more than you can afford.
The Bonus buy option has revolutionized the way many people approach online slots, offering a new level of control and potential for big wins. However, I’ve also witnessed the risks associated with these games, particularly for players who may be prone to impulsive or problematic gambling behavior.
As for any type of gambling activity, my advice to players considering trying Bonus Buy slots, is to approach them as a form of entertainment, not as a way to make money. Start with lower stakes to get a feel for the game and its volatility, and always set a budget that you’re comfortable with. Take advantage of the free-play or demo modes offered by many online casinos to familiarize yourself with the game before risking real money.
Stick to reputable online casinos and to the more well-known slot providers to ensure a safe and fair gaming experience.