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A 'game within a game' that takes place on a separate UI, such as 'Pick and Win', instead of on the spinning reels.

A Bonus Game is a special reward stage that activates when a specific condition is met (usually the appearance of 3 or more 'Bonus' symbols), transitioning from the spinning reels to a completely new and separate game screen.

This is different from features like free spins, where new rules are added to the existing reels.

The core of a bonus game is to provide a new experience, as if you are enjoying a 'mini-game within the game', completely breaking away from the basic slot gameplay.

How It Works

The Glass Slipper by Playtech, which features a Bonus Game function

Start of the Bonus Game

During the base game, the feature is triggered when 3 or more 'Bonus' scatter symbols appear.

Transition to a New Game Screen

The slot reels disappear or fade into the background, and a mini-game with a completely new user interface (UI) unfolds before the player.

Various Bonus Game Types

The types of games played on this new screen are very diverse, with the most representative types being:

Pick and Win / Pick'em Bonus

The most classic and common form, where the player is presented with several closed boxes, cards, doors, seashells, etc.

By choosing one or more of these, the player wins the instant prize, multiplier, or other bonus (like free spins) that was hidden inside.

Wheel of Fortune

A method where you spin a large wheel divided into multiple segments.

The player presses the spin button to spin the wheel and wins the prize (cash, jackpot, free spins, etc.) in the segment where the pointer stops. It is also often used as a way to determine the winner of a jackpot in jackpot slots.

Map/Trail Bonus

A method where you win prizes by moving a character on a map or a path, like a board game.

The character moves forward by the number rolled on a die or a spinner, and wins the prize on the space they land on. The goal is to get as far as possible before landing on a 'Game Over' space.

Player Value

A New Experience and a Breath of Fresh Air

Encountering a mini-game with a completely new screen and rules after continuously watching the reels spin helps to relieve boredom and greatly enhances immersion in the game.

The Fun of Direct Participation and Choice

Unlike passively waiting for the reels to stop, the act of a player 'choosing' something, as in 'Pick and Win', gives the feeling of being more deeply involved in the game. This provides high psychological satisfaction and fun, even if the outcome is randomly determined.

Anticipation for a Clear Reward

Bonus games often present a clear goal and expectation, such as "one of these boxes contains a huge prize." This creates a more direct and tangible tension for a visible reward, which is different from the uncertain potential of a free spins round.