What Is a Respin in Slots and How to Trigger It?

Article by : Divya Gandotra Feb 13, 2025

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Updated: Apr 13, 2025

A respin in slots is like a second chance — it lets you spin the reels again, often without making a new bet. Sounds like a dream, right? This feature can energise your game and even increase your chances of winning. In this article, I’ll explain this feature, how it works, and how to trigger it in different slot games — so you can play smarter and pick the games that give you this incredible bonus respin.

What Is a Respin in Slots?

A respin in slots is when one or more reels spin again after the main spin, usually without placing a new bet. It’s like a redo that keeps your current setup and gives you another chance to land a winning combo.

Unlike free spins, which are usually part of a bonus round and come in bundles, respins are often one-time events triggered by specific game rules.

As I mentioned, respins can boost your win potential. For example, if you land two bonus symbols and need one more to trigger a feature — boom! A bonus respin might appear and help you out. It’s a small, but powerful addition.

How Does the Respin Mechanic Work?

The respin feature is pretty simple, though it works differently from game to game. It’s triggered when certain things happen — like landing specific symbols or getting close to a win. After that, all or some of the reels spin again, while the others stay locked in place. This gives you a better shot at hitting a win.

Here are the main types of respins:

• Automatic Respins — these happen by themselves and are free, for example, after landing a wild symbol.
• Paid Respins — you pay a small amount to spin a reel of your choice again.
• Bonus Respins — these are part of a special feature, often tied to Scatters or other symbols.

Respins don’t change a slot’s RTP, but they can extend your game and increase your chances of winning in the short term. Many beginner players chase quick wins, and respins are perfect for that. Always check the slot machine paytable to understand how respins work in that specific slot.

How to Trigger a Respin in Different Slots

Respins work differently in each game, but here are some common ways to trigger them:

• Bonus Respins — some slots offer respins when you hit unique combos. In Starburst by NetEnt, wilds expand and lock in place, giving you a free respin — that feels great. In Wolf Gold by Pragmatic Play, landing six money symbols starts a respin round where the coins stay in place, giving you a shot at the jackpot.
• Paid Respins — in games like Reel Talent, you can choose to pay for a respin on one reel. It’s a bit risky, but it gives you more control over the game. Feeling curious about riskier moves? See more about another powerful part of games — the gamble feature in online slots.
• Symbol-Based Respins — Wilds, Scatters, or bonus icons can trigger respins too. In Gonzo’s Quest, the Avalanche mechanic works like a cascading respin — each drop of new symbols can lead to a win.

Want to try the best slots with respins? I recommend Jammin’ Jars or Twin Spin (this is obviously a good choice). These games mix respins with other fun features and are a fancy way to get used to this mechanic.

Conclusion

A respin in slots is like a second breath. But, unlike your last human breath, it’s not one-time only. That’s what makes it awesome. Whether it’s a free bonus feature or a paid option, respins add that extra thrill when the spin seems to be over. And don’t forget — they allow you to complete a combo that almost hit the mark.

Here’s a small challenge for you: next time you play, look for games with respins or try the ones I mentioned. You can do that right here on the SlotsUp site. Keep in mind — respins can turn a just okay spin into a truly epic one… if luck’s on your side.