
Speeding Up the Game to the Maximum
In the world of online slots, where every spin can bring both a big win and disappointment, there is one moment that every player waits for—the bonus round. This is where the game's full potential is unleashed, with huge multipliers, free spins, and jackpots appearing. However, waiting for the bonus round can be long and exhausting, requiring hundreds or even thousands of spins.
It is for those who don't like to wait that casino developers created the "Bonus Buy" feature. This mechanic allows you to instantly activate the bonus round by paying a fixed amount. Thanks to this option, you can immediately dive into the most exciting part of the game, skipping the routine. But is this "fast track" to big wins worth the risks? In this in-depth guide, we will analyze the Bonus Buy mechanic in detail, evaluate its pros and cons, rank the top 5 slots with this feature in 2025, and provide expert tips on how to use it.
What is the "Bonus Buy" Feature?
The Bonus Buy feature is a paid option in a slot machine that allows the player to instantly trigger a bonus game (e.g., free spins or a special respin round) for a certain amount of money. The cost of buying a bonus is usually expressed as a multiplier of the current bet. Most often, it is 50x, 75x, 100x, or even 200x the bet.
This mechanic has become extremely popular in recent years because it gives players complete control over the gameplay and allows them to instantly jump to the part of the game where the biggest prizes are awarded. However, it is important to understand that buying a bonus does not guarantee a win, it only provides access to the bonus round, which can turn out to be both extremely profitable and completely unprofitable.
How the Bonus Buy Mechanic Works: Price and Volatility
When you decide to buy a bonus, the slot machine triggers a special algorithm. Instead of a random drop of bonus symbols on the reels, the game immediately enters the bonus mode. The cost of buying a bonus depends on the game and is usually calculated based on the current bet. For example, if your bet is 10 UAH and the bonus cost is 100x, you will have to pay 1000 UAH for one round of free spins.
A key feature of slots with Bonus Buy is their high volatility. This means that wins in the base game are rare, and the main winning potential is concentrated in the bonus round. By buying a bonus, you are essentially betting on high volatility, consciously forgoing small wins in the base game for a chance at a big score in the bonus.
RTP Change with Bonus Buy
Many providers state that the slot's RTP when using the Bonus Buy feature may be slightly higher than in the base game. This is because the bonus round has a higher potential and is statistically more favorable for the player. However, this is not a rule for all games. Always check the RTP information in the game's rules ("Info" tab), where the provider usually specifies the return percentage for the base game and for the bonus option.
Top 5 Slots with the Bonus Buy Feature in 2025
We analyzed the market and selected five slots that are leaders in popularity, winning potential, and the excitement of the Bonus Buy mechanic in 2025.
1. Gates of Olympus (Pragmatic Play)
Provider: Pragmatic Play
Review: This slot is a true legend. It does not have classic paylines; wins are formed based on the "pay anywhere" principle. The main feature is multipliers that can appear at any time and accumulate. During free spins, multipliers are collected, which can lead to colossal wins.
- Volatility: Very high.
- RTP: 96.5% (standard), can be lower.
- Bonus Buy Cost: 100x the bet.
- What you get: 15 free spins, where multipliers are added to a total multiplier for the entire round, making it extremely profitable.
Why it's in the top: Thanks to its crazy multipliers and the potential for wins exceeding 5000x the bet. The Bonus Buy in this slot is a ticket to a serious game where one "bonuska" can bring hundreds of thousands of hryvnias.
2. Sweet Bonanza (Pragmatic Play)
Provider: Pragmatic Play
Review: A sweet and vibrant slot that uses the cascading reels mechanic. The bonus round is 10 free spins with the chance of lollipop multipliers (up to 100x) appearing, which are summed up and applied to all wins. The Bonus Buy here is offered at a very reasonable price.
- Volatility: High.
- RTP: 96.48% (standard), can be lower.
- Bonus Buy Cost: 100x the bet.
- What you get: 10 free spins, where multipliers from 2x to 100x can appear.
Why it's in the top: Simplicity, high potential, and visual appeal. This is an ideal slot for beginners who want to try Bonus Buy but are not ready for the extreme volatility of Nolimit City.
3. Money Train 4 (Relax Gaming)
Provider: Relax Gaming
Review: The legendary Money Train series, which is famous for its incredible bonus rounds. Money Train 4 is the pinnacle of the series with a huge number of special modifier symbols and a maximum win of 150,000x the bet. The Bonus Buy in this slot is not just a purchase of free spins, but access to a complex and profitable bonus game.
- Volatility: Extremely high.
- RTP: 96.1% (base), 96.5% (with bonus buy).
- Bonus Buy Cost: 100x (standard round) to 500x (special round with more symbols).
- What you get: A respin round where you collect multiplier symbols and other modifiers.
Why it's in the top: Because of its colossal winning potential. Bonus Buy here is an investment in one of the most profitable bonus games in the history of online slots. For experienced players who are ready to take risks, it is an absolute must-have.
4. San Quentin xWays (Nolimit City)
Provider: Nolimit City
Review: This slot is not for the faint of heart. It is known for its extreme volatility, gloomy theme, and the signature xWays mechanic, which expands the reels. The bonus round (Lockdown Spins) can bring multipliers up to 2000x and even bigger wins, but it is very difficult to get it without buying.
- Volatility: Extremely high.
- RTP: 96.03% (standard), 96.22% (with bonus buy).
- Bonus Buy Cost: 100x, 400x, or 2000x the bet, depending on the bonus type.
- What you get: 3, 4, or 5 scatters that trigger a free spins round with possible multipliers and expanded reels.
Why it's in the top: It is an icon of high risk and high reward. The Bonus Buy here allows you to skip hundreds of thousands of spins and go straight to potentially gigantic wins. This slot is an example of modern gambling, where it's all or nothing.
5. Big Bass Bonanza (Pragmatic Play)
Provider: Pragmatic Play
Review: A simple, fun, and very popular slot. It offers a classic mechanic with free spins, where a fisherman collects cash-fish symbols. Every four fishermen collected during free spins re-trigger the bonus round with an increased multiplier.
- Volatility: High.
- RTP: 96.71% (standard).
- Bonus Buy Cost: 100x the bet.
- What you get: 10 free spins, where you collect cash symbols and multipliers.
Why it's in the top: This is the perfect slot for those looking for a simple and profitable Bonus Buy mechanic. It is less complex than Money Train but has excellent potential and stable popularity among players. It's a great choice to try Bonus Buy without unnecessary complications.
Risks and Advantages: Who is Bonus Buy for?
The Bonus Buy feature is a powerful tool that has its pros and cons.
Advantages:
- Instant action: You don't waste time waiting for the bonus round.
- Control: You decide when to enter the bonus.
- Potentially higher RTP: In some games, the RTP can be slightly higher when buying a bonus.
- Adrenaline: It is very exciting, as you immediately get access to the most interesting game moments.
Risks:
- High cost: The cost of the bonus can be significant and quickly deplete your bankroll, especially at high stakes.
- No guarantee of a win: You can spend 100x your bet and only win 5x or nothing at all.
- Increased volatility: This is a game for the patient and those who are willing to risk large amounts for a chance at a big win.
- Risk of addiction: Can provoke more impulsive play and rapid balance depletion.
Strategy for Using Bonus Buy: Expert Tips
If you decide to use this feature, follow a few important rules:
- Set a budget: Define a clear limit of funds that you are willing to spend on buying bonuses and do not exceed it.
- Play at low stakes: Start with the minimum bet so that the cost of the bonus is not too high.
- Use demo mode: Before playing for real money, try buying the bonus in the demo version to understand its mechanics and potential.
- Don't chase losses: If the bonus round turns out to be unprofitable, do not try to immediately recover losses by buying it again.
- Choose providers with high RTP: Always check the RTP for the Bonus Buy feature in the game's rules.
The Future of Bonus Buy in 2025: Trends and Innovations
The Bonus Buy feature is not standing still and is evolving. In 2025, we can expect:
- Dynamic pricing: The cost of the bonus may change depending on your activity in the base game.
- Tiered purchase: The ability to buy different levels of bonuses (e.g., a bonus with 10 free spins, 20 free spins, etc.).
- Combined bonuses: Integration of Bonus Buy with other features, such as the Megaways option.
- Regulatory restrictions: In some countries (e.g., the UK), the Bonus Buy feature is already prohibited due to the high risk. This trend may spread.
FAQ: Frequent Questions about Bonus Buy
Does buying a bonus guarantee a win?
No. Buying a bonus only guarantees the launch of the bonus round. The result of this round is random and can be either profitable or unprofitable.
Does the RTP change when you buy a bonus?
In many games, yes, it can increase slightly. However, this is not a universal rule. Always check the information in the "Info" tab in the game.
How much does Bonus Buy cost?
The cost varies from 50x to 2000x the bet, depending on the slot and the provider. The average price is 100x the bet.
Is this feature legal in Ukraine?
Yes, in licensed Ukrainian casinos, the Bonus Buy feature is legal and available in many slots from leading providers.
Should I buy a bonus if I am a beginner?
As a rule, no. This feature is more suitable for experienced players who are willing to take risks. Beginners should start with the base game and observe the volatility.
Conclusion: Is it worth buying the bonus?
The Bonus Buy feature is an exciting tool for those who want to get the most out of the game and are willing to take risks for a big win. It is not a bankroll management strategy, but rather a tool for quick access to adrenaline and high multipliers. If you have a sufficient bankroll, play responsibly, and do not chase losses, this feature can be a great addition to your gaming experience.
Remember that the main goal of the game is entertainment. Use Bonus Buy wisely, choose trusted slots, and don't forget about responsible gaming. Good luck!