Can You Buy Bonus on Slots in the UK – Bonus Buy Slots Banned

Article by : Divya Gandotra Nov 30, 2023

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Bonus Buy Slots have become a hot topic of debate within the gambling community, particularly in the United Kingdom. These slots allow players to purchase bonus features, skipping the traditional gameplay and accelerating the chance of winning big. However, this convenience has sparked discussions on the ethics and impact of such games, leading to questions about their legality and potential bans.

The Rise of Bonus Buy Slots

The name of Feature Buy or Feature Drop is also known as Bonus Buy. These slots gained popularity due to their appeal to players who wanted to get their hands on the bonus features of a slot game. Bonus Buy Slots entered the UK market because it was named White Rabbit when Big Time Gaming offered two slots. By allowing users to buy bonuses instead of waiting for them to be triggered naturally, these slots provided a unique and more direct gaming experience. This innovation, however, has not been without its controversies.

Ethical Concerns

Critics argue that Bonus Buy Slots might encourage impulsive behaviour and contribute to problem gambling. The ability to bypass the standard gameplay may lead players to spend more money than they initially intended, raising concerns about the potential harm these features could cause, especially among vulnerable individuals. Most people think that once they trigger the bonus feature, they will get handsomely paid for the money they spent to trigger the bonus.

Regulatory Responses

Regulatory bodies in the UK have been closely monitoring the situation in response to the ethical concerns surrounding Bonus Buy Slots. In particular, the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) has been proactive in implementing measures to protect players. Recent regulatory changes have been introduced to address the potential risks associated with Bonus Buy Slots. 

However, there are still slots available with the Bonus Buy feature in the UK. Players can play those slots, but the only difference is that they cannot trigger the bonus feature by paying any amount. They can only use the bonus feature organically if it gets activated during the gameplay.

The Ban on Bonus Buy Slots

The controversy surrounding Bonus Buy Slots has sometimes led to outright bans. Certain jurisdictions have decided to prohibit the sale of bonus features within slot games to protect consumers from potential harm. This decision reflects a growing recognition of the need to balance innovation in the gambling industry with responsible gaming practices. 

The Gambling Commission banned slots with the bonus buy feature, stating they didn’t meet the UKGC’s remote gambling and software technical standards.

Player Reactions

Some players like the thrill and ease of Bonus Buy Slots, but others say these features mess up the regular slot game experience. This difference of opinion reflects a more significant argument in the gambling community about finding the right mix between trying new things in games and making sure people gamble responsibly. It’s like an ongoing discussion about keeping things exciting for players while being careful about how people gamble. The debate shows a challenge in deciding how much innovation is good and how much might cause problems for players.

Alternatives to Bonus Buy Slots

For UK players seeking alternatives to Bonus Buy Slots, several options provide engaging gameplay without the controversy associated with purchasing bonus features. Here are some alternatives to consider:

1. Traditional Slots

Stick to classic slot games that follow the standard format of triggering bonuses through in-game achievements. This ensures a more traditional and methodical gaming experience without the option to buy bonuses.

2. Progressive Jackpot Slots

Explore progressive jackpot slots that offer the thrill of potentially winning massive prizes. These games often have engaging bonus features activated through regular gameplay, providing excitement without a bonus buy option.

3. Skill-based Games

Look for skill-based casino games that involve an element of strategy or decision-making. Games like blackjack or poker require skill and strategy, offering a different challenge than luck-based slots.

4. Table Games

Diversify your gaming experience by trying various table games such as roulette, baccarat, or craps. These games provide different excitement and interaction, relying on strategy and chance rather than bonus purchases.

5. Live Casino Games

Immerse yourself in the live casino experience, where real dealers interact with players in real time. Live blackjack, roulette, and other live dealer games offer an authentic casino atmosphere without the controversial bonus buy feature.

6. Demo Versions

Play demo versions of slots to explore the game mechanics without spending real money. This allows players to familiarize themselves with a game’s features and decide if they enjoy the gameplay before committing financially.

7. Responsible Gambling Features

Choose online casinos that prioritize responsible gambling. Many platforms offer features like deposit limits, self-exclusion, and reality checks to help players manage their gambling habits responsibly.

8. Casino Tournaments

Participate in casino tournaments that reward skill and performance. Some online casinos host regular tournaments for various games, providing an opportunity to compete against other players for prizes.

9. Look For Options Like Money Cart 2

Relax Gaming released Money Cart 2, a game resembling its predecessor, Money Train 2. UK regulations restricted players from triggering the bonus feature via bonus buy. Relax Gaming embraced these restrictions and created a game centred around the bonus round to address this. The game’s higher Return to Player (RTP) increases the likelihood of triggering bonuses within a few spins, enhancing player engagement.

Conclusion

The controversy surrounding Bonus Buy Slots in the UK highlights the gambling industry’s ongoing challenges in maintaining a balance between innovation, entertainment, and responsible Gaming. The development of regulatory measures and prohibitions in specific locations indicates a rising understanding of the possible problems connected with these qualities. 

Regulators and operators continue to struggle to strike the correct balance between innovation and consumer protection as the industry develops.