Free spins are the bit everyone’s waiting for. You can sit through the base game all you like, but let’s be honest, most players are there for the bonus round.
They give you a set number of spins without dipping into your balance, often with added features that can boost your winnings. Sounds ideal, and sometimes it is. But it helps to know exactly how they work before you get too excited.
How Do You Trigger Free Spins?
In most slots, free spins are triggered by landing three or more scatter symbols anywhere on the reels.
Scatter symbols usually match the theme of the game. Think treasure chests, gold coins, or something equally dramatic. Land enough of them, and the bonus round kicks in.
Some games mix things up slightly:
- Free spins can be awarded randomly during play
- They might appear as part of another bonus feature
- Some slots let you buy straight into the feature, usually at a higher cost
Buying in can be tempting, but it’s rarely the shortcut it sounds like.
What Happens During Free Spins?
Once triggered, you’ll be told how many free spins you’ve landed.
Typically:
- 3 scatters = around 10 free spins
- 4 scatters = more spins
- 5 scatters = even more, sometimes with extra perks
The spins run automatically, using the same stake as the spin that triggered them. So if you were spinning at 50p, all your free spins wins are based on that.
You’re not paying for the spins, but you’re also not suddenly betting higher stakes.
Most online slots also change things visually during the bonus round. Different backgrounds, animations, or colours just to make it obvious that something important is happening.
Extra Features During Free Spins
This is where things get interesting.
Free spins rounds often come with added features designed to boost your chances of winning:
- Wild symbols appearing more frequently
- Multipliers that increase your winnings
- Expanding or sticky wilds
- Extra bonus symbols
Some slots also include progressive multipliers that increase as the round goes on. In theory, your last few spins can be worth far more than the first.
Of course, nothing is guaranteed, but this is what gives free spins their appeal.
Can You Retrigger Free Spins?
In many slots, yes.
If you land the required scatter symbols again during the bonus round, you’ll be awarded additional free spins on top of what you already have.
This is known as a retrigger, and it’s where things can really build.
That said:
- Some slots cap the total number of spins you can reach
- Others are more generous
- A few offer unlimited retriggers, though these are rare
If a slot has strong retrigger potential, it’s usually worth paying attention.
Free Spins vs Bonus Free Spins
This is where people often get caught out.
There are two types of free spins:
In-game free spins
Triggered within the slot itself. No strings attached. Any winnings are yours instantly.
Promotional free spins
Offered by casinos as part of a welcome bonus or promotion.
These usually come with wagering requirements, meaning:
- You’ll need to play through your winnings multiple times
- You might be limited to certain slots
- There may be maximum withdrawal caps
So while “100 free spins” sounds great, it’s not quite as straightforward as it looks.
Tips For Getting the Most Out of Free Spins
Free spins might feel like a free ride, but it still pays to be switched on.
A few things worth keeping in mind:
- Check the paytable to see what features are active during free spins
- Look for retrigger potential
- Understand the slot’s volatility
- Keep your stake sensible before triggering the feature
High volatility slots can go quiet for a while, then suddenly pay out big. Lower volatility games tend to be steadier but less dramatic.
Neither is better. It just depends how patient you’re feeling.
Free Spins Explained FAQ
What are free spins in slots?
Free spins are a bonus feature in slot games that gives you a set number of spins without using your balance. Any winnings are based on your original stake.
How do you trigger free spins?
Most slots require you to land three or more scatter symbols anywhere on the reels. Some games also offer random triggers or bonus buy options.
Can you win real money from free spins?
Yes. In-game free spins pay real money based on your stake. However, promotional free spins from casinos may come with wagering requirements.
What does retriggering free spins mean?
Retriggering happens when you land the required symbols again during the bonus round, awarding extra free spins and extending the feature.
Are free spins always the best part of a slot?
Often, yes. Free spins usually include extra features like multipliers or wilds, which can lead to bigger wins compared to the base game.