Bonus Buy games are a feature often present in specific online slot games. They offer players the ability to purchase a bonus round or special feature directly within the game, instead of waiting for it to occur naturally during regular gameplay. This option enables players to skip the standard gameplay and immediately enjoy bonus rounds or other rewarding features by paying an extra fee.
Recently, we have discussed changes in the regulation of bonuses in the Netherlands and Belgium in our previous articles:
We have underlined the tendency in European countries to already tighten the regulation of bonuses.
In February 2024, Play'n GO conducted a survey among players in Sweden regarding Bonus Buy games. According to recent findings from Play'n GO, a majority of Swedish slot players express the following sentiments:
63% view a regulatory change as evidence that the Swedish government is addressing gambling issues seriously.
53% would feel pride if the gambling regulator banned Bonus Buy games.
Prohibition of Bonus Buy games is nothing new. In some jurisdictions, this practice is already in place (for example in The Netherlands and UK).
In 2020 The Gambling Commission UK opted to prohibit Bonus Buy games citing their failure to meet technical standards, as outlined in Remote Gambling & Software Technical Standard 14A: ‘Gambling products must not actively encourage customers to chase their losses, increase their stake or increase the amount they have decided to gamble, or continue to gamble after they have indicated that they wish to stop. These regulations are focused on responsible gambling rules and player protection.
The Netherlands' Kansspelautoriteit also has banned Bonus Buy games. According to the Kansspelautoriteit, this is because the Bonus Buy games can lead to a loss of game control and balance.
So, it's not surprising that the Swedish survey found that more than 60% of respondents believed that implementing regulations similar to the current bans in the Netherlands and the UK would represent a responsible approach.
From our point of view, having a Bonus Buy game in online slot games may make players feel less in control and financial strain. Players may be allowed to play more, resulting in more time spent in online slot games. The loss of Bonus Buy game can be a mechanism to limit the time spent. Also Bonus Buy game can motivate players to spend more of their money. Bonus Buy game has a strong influence on the realisation of responsible gambling rules.
Such conclusions are well illustrated in a survey among players in 30 jurisdictions by BETO SLOTS. 81% find Bonus Buy game excitement, highlighting its vital role in modern slot popularity by offering quick access to game highlights. 59% prefer platforms with detailed info on Bonus Buy risks and mechanics. As for Responsible Gaming Tools, 77% value features like time limits and reality checks on gaming platforms.
So that these measures can better protect players and realise the rules of responsible gambling.
The article is also available in Russian on SiGMA World website ⬇️