Global Trends in Bonus Buy Popularity

Bonus buys, which started as a niche feature in select online slot titles, have evolved into a seemingly unstoppable force in the iGaming industry. Borne on a wave of popularity, the option to purchase a bonus round immediately rather than wait to earn one has become one of the most sought-after features in modern slots, with many players curating their game lists based on whether this feature is available.

The rise of this feature has been aided by mobile-first game design, which gives players on the move better access to games and bonus rounds, and by varying regulations which adopt or dismiss the feature. Other factors, like a streaming culture that requires instant gratification or immediate access to content, have also helped bolster the popularity of purchasing bonus rounds.

However, although this feature continues growing in popularity, each region has a specific view towards them and a specific manner in which they are enjoyed. Read on to find out where this feature is most popular, how it is regulated worldwide, and what form of bonus buy is most commonly searched for today.

The Incentives Behind Bonus Buys

There are multiple reasons that bonus buys have grown in popularity so quickly and so widely.

Instant Gratification

One of the most significant reasons this feature has become so popular is that it allows immediate access to rewards that are commonly locked behind requiring scatter symbols to land. This instant reward plays into our culture of expecting immediate gratification, with as little waiting as possible.

Player Control

Part of the charm of slot games is that they have the element of the unknown. However, for those who like being in control, this reliance on the unknown falling in their favour to give them a shot at a bonus round may not be entirely enjoyable. The ability to purchase a bonus whenever helps generate a feeling of being more in control of the gameplay and risk.

Mobile-First Design

While players enjoying slots on a PC may be willing to play longer to trigger a bonus, those playing while on the move may be more pressed for time. As such, bonus buys place mobile-first design at the centre by making bonus rounds quickly accessible, which is perfect for those playing on a limited schedule.

Streaming Culture

Another factor linked to an increase in bonus buy popularity is the way streamers use this feature to curate their provided content to make it more exciting. Few viewers want to watch a streamer spin endlessly without hitting a bonus, but if the content solely comprises bonus rounds, it is more entertaining and engaging to watch. As such, streamers heavily rely on bonus buy functionality for content creation.

Fragmented Regulation Surrounding Bonus Buys

Although there are multiple benefits to bonus buys and various reasons their popularity is growing tremendously, not everyone agrees. Some regions have explicitly banned this feature or are in the process of issuing new regulations to deal with it.

United Kingdom

The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC), known as one of the best governing authorities internationally, has explicitly warned operators against offering this unique feature. In some instances, the body has gone as far as insisting on the removal of the feature from published titles.

The basis for this is that the mechanic encourages players to engage in actions with increased stakes. By essentially requiring additional wagers to access bonus rounds, players may spend more than they expect with no guarantee of return. As such, the UKGC views this feature as potentially harmful to players.

Netherlands and Nordic Regions

The Netherlands and various other Nordic territories, like Sweden, have engaged in discussions and debates regarding whether or not bonus buys should be allowed. With almost all these regions focusing on preventing gambling harm, industry groups and regulators have contributed to the conversation regarding where bonus buys fall in the industry.

Because of these discussions, these regions have adopted cautionary stances toward this game feature. While it may still be allowed, this will be under tighter restrictions that prioritise player protection over additional monetisation for operators.

North America and Asia-Pacific

The US, Canada, and various Asia-Pacific countries take an entirely different stance from the common European standard. Unlike European countries, which view bonus buy mechanisms as risky and potentially harmful, these territories see them as a way to enhance the gambling experience and make online play more enjoyable for players. As such, bonus buys are permitted.

This permission is not granted blindly or with no concern for player protection. Part of the conditions for bonus buys to be accessible is that operators must disclose information like RTP (return to player) rates and that all titles and operators meet certification requirements.

India

Other countries, like India, however, fall into a unique category. Recent legislation has undisputedly outlawed online gambling, even though online gambling has traditionally not been permitted or regulated by the state. As such, players in the region have had to rely on offshore operators to find their online gambling entertainment.

Because these offshore operators provide services outside the regulatory framework of the country, bonus buys are almost always provided, as they give operators boosted profits. As such, these mechanisms, which offer heightened thrills, are immensely popular among players.

Player Appetite for Bonus Buy Features

While regulation controlling bonus buys varies by region, so does player appetite. Some players prefer tiered buys, others opt for bonus gambles. The preference of players in various regions gives insight into how gambling is approached in each territory.

Europe

Player preference in Europe is fragmented. While those in southern and eastern parts of the continent enjoy tiered buys, particularly if they offer escalating multipliers, Nordic players prefer to stay away from bonus buys altogether. This is primarily because of regulatory pressure that has made the availability of these features scarce.

North America and Asia-Pacific

Players in North America have shown a tendency to purchase Megaways-style bonus rounds and those that offer higher volatility than other options. While these are also popular in Asia-Pacific regions, players in these territories often prefer bonuses that offer escalating multipliers or the option to select a bonus gamble.

India

In India and other countries that rely on offshore operators, any form of bonus buy is widely used, although those that offer tiered buys tend to be more popular.

In Summary

As Casinos.com’s picks for best bonus buy slots demonstrate, there is no denying the thrill and fun that bonus buys offer. However, they also come with higher risks and additional expenses, so the fine line between pleasure and responsibility must always be kept in mind.

As bonus buys continue to grow in popularity and regulation is continually being developed around this slot feature, it is likely that their mechanics will evolve to align with the regulations across various territories.

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