Free Spins are a widely loved feature available in many slot games, offering the thrilling possibility of playing additional rounds without any extra cost.
The method to trigger this bonus varies across different slot games, but there are a few ways that are common across UK slots. These include landing specific symbol combinations, unlocking specific win combinations, or climbing certain levels on a bonus ladder.
The Concept of Free Spins
Free Spins are a special bonus feature found in many online slot machine games. They offer a predetermined number of spins that you can play without any additional cost.
Any wins you gather during these spins are added directly to your account.
However, it's important to understand that these spins aren't the same as playing a slot game for free. You still need to stake money on each base game spin for the chance to trigger this feature. The Free Spins round is simply a bonus feature that you could potentially trigger, but it's not guaranteed.
How Many Spins Does It Take To Hit a Bonus?
Landing the Free Spins bonus is a random occurrence that cannot be predicted. Slot games use Random Number Generators (RNGs), which are software systems that use mathematical algorithms to generate millions of number sequences per second.
RNGs affect every element of slot gameplay, from what symbols land on each spin to if bonus features trigger. As a result, there's no set number of spins it takes to hit a bonus. The prospect of winning extra spins without having to buy them is exciting, but a Free Spins bonus isn't a guarantee.
What Triggers The Free Spins Bonus on Slots?
The Free Spins bonus is most commonly triggered by landing a certain number of scatter symbols simultaneously. Typically, this requires anywhere from 3 or more matching scatter symbols. So, 3, 4, or 5 scatter symbols could trigger a predetermined number of Free Spins.
Alternatively, you can win the Free Spins bonus after unlocking a specific win combination. Some new online slots also offer Free Spins after you reach certain levels on a bonus ladder.
Lastly, Free Spins can sometimes be received as part of a casino welcome bonus. However, terms and conditions usually apply to these spins, such as the requirement to play these Free Spins on specific online slot games, as well as wagering requirements.
How Do Free Spins Work?
In the course of playing a real money slot game where you stake your own funds on each spin, you may trigger a Free Spins round. This bonus feature awards a number of spins at the same bet amount as the spin that triggered it. However, these spins won't be deducted from your funds, and you still have the chance to win real money if you have a successful spin.
Even if you don't, you won't lose any money. If you land winning spins during a Free Spins round, the prizes are added to your funds. However, remember that wins aren't guaranteed during a Free Spins feature.
Can You Win Big With Free Spins?
Yes, you can potentially win big with Free Spins. The Free Spins feature may offer spins at no extra cost, but if you land a winning spin, you can win real money, just as you would with a staked spin. The round is typically played at the same bet level as the triggering spin but without using your funds.
However, if the Free Spins were received as part of a casino's welcome bonus, they might be subject to wagering requirements before you can claim the winnings from the Free Spins.
Are Free Spins Worth It?
Free Spins offer several benefits that make them worth it:
- More Spins For No Cost: If you trigger this feature, you receive extra spins without any additional cost.
- A Chance To Win: You can still win real money payouts during the Free Spins round. The slot game uses the bet amount of the triggering spin to calculate any potential payouts during the Free Spins round.
- The Free Spins Bonus Can Have More Extras: Sometimes, triggering the Free Spins feature can give you access to more extras. For example, in some slots, you might land an increasing win multiplier that's only available during the Free Spins round, or there may be special expanding symbols during this bonus round.
Can You Buy Free Spins?
In the UK, you cannot buy the Free Spins bonus feature. The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) prohibits bonus buying in this jurisdiction.
Conclusion
The Free Spins bonus is a popular feature in mobile slots as it offers players more opportunities to potentially win payouts without having to place additional bets.
However, it's important to remember that Free Spins are not guaranteed, nor are wins during the feature. Please gamble responsibly and don't look to slot games or any other form of gambling as a way to generate money.
All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins, etc.) mentioned in relation to these slot games are subject to change at any time.
