Modern slot games have evolved far beyond simple spinning reels and static paylines. You don’t just win some wilds or free spins anymore. Instead, there are some complex bonus mechanics that reshape how the games unfold. For players, these types of games add variety and depth to the game, and at the same time, the gameplay remains engaging and distinct. So, what are some new types of bonuses you can find in modern slots?
Persistent Symbol Collections
Persistent symbol collection mechanics in a slot game involve symbols that remain active across different spins within a bonus round. Rather than resetting after each spin, the symbols will stay on the grid and continue to influence outcomes.
In this bonus, one or multiple symbols retain their position throughout the feature, increase in value over time, and collect values from other symbols. The special or bonus symbol might also stay in place while others spin, unlocking a reward.
Pick and Win Board Game Features
Some modern slots replace traditional pick-and-win screens with fully animated digital board games. Rather than selecting a single object, players might move across a map or path. This is determined by rolling virtual dice or triggering movement symbols.
As you move through the board, you might pick up some rewards like multipliers, free spins, and other mini features. This type of bonus game borrows from the classic board game design. It transforms a bonus round into a multi-step journey.
Expanding Symbols and Expanding Wilds
Expanding symbol mechanics can dramatically alter the layout of the reels. When triggered, some symbols or wilds can grow and cover the entire reels, multiple rows, and even split into several instances across the grid.
In some modern designs, the expanding symbols lead to many winning combinations. This mechanic focuses on scale and visual impact. By increasing the symbol density, expanding features offer more wins and usually comes with fun animations and sound design.
Re-Spin Locking Mechanics
Re-spin locking mechanics involve holding specific reels or symbols in place while the other reels continue to spin. It’s usually the high-value symbols that stay in place when the other reels spin, and you can retrigger the respins. It’s usually about three respins which can be retriggered multiple times.
Some of the elements in this kind of bonus include limited re-spin counts, locked reels or rows, and progressive reel locking. It’s inspired by the classic hold-and-spin concepts.
The Tumble and Multiplier Combination
Tumbling, or cascading reels are now widely used in online slots, but some modern slots elevate this mechanic by combining it with global multipliers. In these designs, the winning symbols will disappear and get replaced by new ones. Each cascade increases a multiplier, and the multiplier applies to the total reward.
The structure rewards extended sequences within a single round, making the bonus feel continuous. With the cascades, you get more chances to win and more multipliers, double rewards with one feature.
Bonus Buy Feature
The bonus buy feature allows direct access to a game’s bonus round without waiting for it to unlock naturally. If you don’t want to wait for the bonus, you can spend 100x your bet to unlock the bonus and access it directly.
In cases like these, the bonus buy highlights the bonus as the core attraction, and you don’t have to wait for the feature to be randomly activated.
Final Thoughts
One of the highlights of playing online slots is to win bonuses, and now, there are even better and more unique options for players to trigger. Rather than just multipliers or free spins, you can play board games, use expanding wilds, or re-spin locks while playing your slot.