Bonus Buy Feature: What You Need to Know

Bonus buys are showing up more often on modern slot releases, and they change how players approach bonus rounds, volatility, and bankroll management. If you’ve seen a “Buy Feature” button on a game like Betsoft’s Super Golden Dragon Inferno, here’s what you need to know before you hit that button.

What the Bonus Buy Feature actually does

A bonus buy lets you pay to trigger a slot’s bonus round or free spins instantly, instead of waiting for the base game to land the qualifying symbols. Prices vary by game; some charge a multiple of your current bet, others set a fixed cost tied to in-game mechanics. The feature gives instant access to bonus mechanics like “Hold & Win,” multipliers, or stacked wilds, so you can skip long base-game sessions.

Super Golden Dragon Inferno is an example of a Betsoft title that includes a Buy Feature — check the game review for specifics on how the buy works and how it affects expected returns.

Why players use it — and when it makes sense

Using a bonus buy is appealing for a few clear reasons:

Immediate access to the most rewarding rounds, without waiting for random triggers.
A way to test a game’s bonus mechanics and volatility quickly.
Better control over session pacing, especially on mobile or limited-play sessions.

For players who value time, or who like high-volatility play and can handle larger swings, a bonus buy can be a strategic option. But it’s not inherently better for expected value.

The real costs: RTP, variance, and house edge implications

Buying the bonus doesn’t guarantee a better return. In many games, the effective RTP when using the buy can be lower than playing the base game normally. The buy concentrates variance into fewer, larger outcomes, which raises the chance of big wins but also increases the risk of rapid losses.

Also note that casinos and software providers sometimes adjust the buy price so the math favors the house more strongly than casual play. Always check the game’s stated RTP, and read developer notes about how the buy affects payback.

How buys interact with bonuses and wagering rules

Using a bonus buy can affect how deposit bonuses or free spins apply. Many casinos exclude “buy feature” rounds from contributing to wagering requirements, or they prohibit using promotional funds to trigger a buy. General bonus policies often include:

Wagering requirements that count real-money play first.
Maximum cashout caps tied to bonus winnings.
Different contribution rates by game type (slots usually 100%, table games much lower).

As an example, some platforms have welcome offers like a 100% match up to A$750 plus free spins with 40x wagering, and a maximum cashout of A$1,000. That offer is aimed at Australian players and is restricted in several markets, including the United States, per its terms. Always confirm the platform’s specific T&Cs before using a buy feature when you have active bonus funds.

Legal and availability notes for US players

Not all online casinos available internationally support bonus buys for US players. Many regulated US casinos and state rules limit or do not permit certain high-risk features. Before trying a bonus buy:

Check your state’s online casino regulations.
Verify the casino’s geolocation and supported payment methods.
Confirm whether bonus buys are enabled for players in your state.

If you play in regulated states like New Jersey, Pennsylvania, or Michigan, use licensed sites that display clear payout, geolocation, and licensing information. Play only where it’s legal.

Responsible strategies for using bonus buys

Treat bonus buys like any high-risk tool. Practical tips:

Start small: test the buy with low stakes or demo mode if available.
Set strict loss and session limits, and stick to them.
Factor buy costs into your overall bankroll plan, not as separate “bonus” money.
Check max-bet caps during wagering periods, since some bonus terms limit bet sizes while a bonus is active.

Also, remember that repeated buy usage can accelerate losses, so it’s not a long-term substitute for sound bankroll control.

Quick pre-buy checklist

Confirm the buy price relative to your bet size.
Check the game’s RTP and whether buy affects it.
Review casino T&Cs for bonus interactions, max cashout, and wagering rules.
Verify your state’s legality and the casino’s geolocation status.
Start with a low test buy or demo play to learn feature behavior.

Bonus buys give direct access to the most exciting parts of many slots, but they’re a feature that deserves extra scrutiny. Read the game notes, review the casino’s bonus policy, and only buy features when it fits your bankroll and risk plan. For a closer look at one title that includes a buy option, see our Super Golden Dragon Inferno Slots review.