The online casino industry is very competitive. New casinos open their doors on a monthly basis. In fact, there are so many new casinos that it’s hard to keep up with it all. This is why most casinos offer casino bonuses like bonus money and free spins in hopes of attracting new players and retaining old ones.
Out of all the bonuses at casinos, free spins are typically the most popular ones. They are marketed as a risk-free way to try your luck, win real money and explore new slot games without dipping into your own funds. Pretty nice, right?
At first glance, free spins might seem like a straightforward gift. In reality, there’s more going on under the surface.
Free spins can be a great bonus to grab as a side dish when you make your first deposit, but you should be aware of the restrictions and conditions attached to them.
What Are Free Spins Offers at Online Casinos?
Free spins are literally free game attempts. So you can spin the reels of your favorite slot without betting your own money. For instance, if you get 100 free spins at an online casino, you have 100 completely free spins on the game of your choice. The spins are worth real money, so you have a chance to win real money too.
Free spins are typically offered as part of a promo deal. New players often see them when they first register at an online casino. A welcome bonus might include a number of free spins on a specific slot game. They’re often bundled with a first deposit bonus, too.
In some cases, players are even rewarded with free spins just for signing up. These are referred to as no deposit bonuses. This means there’s no need to deposit any money.
Regular players can also benefit from free spins, as casinos frequently offer a variety of free spins offers, like loyalty programs, seasonal promotions and surprise giveaways.
How do Free Spins Work in Practice?
The concept of a free spin is simple. At least on the surface. The casino gives you a predetermined number of spins on a slot machine, like 100 or 200 spins. Any winnings from those spins are added to your account.
So, if you receive 100 spins on Starburst, you find Starburst in the game library and play 100 spins without risking your own money. Plus you have a chance to win real money while you’re at it.
However, these winnings are rarely as straightforward as they appear. Most online casinos attach specific terms and conditions to free spins.
Wagering Requirements Can be a Source of Frustration
Almost all casino bonuses include wagering requirements. It’s rare to find a bonus that doesn’t include them.
When you win money using free spins, the funds are classified as bonus money. This means that you cannot immediately withdraw your winnings. Instead, you have to wager the bonus amount a certain number of times before you can withdraw it.
For instance, if you win $10 from free spins and the casino has a 30x wagering requirement, you would need to place bets totaling $300 before you could cash out your winnings. These requirements can vary widely between casinos and promotions, so players should check them before claiming the free spins. These wagering requirements are the most frequent source of frustration for players.
Game Restrictions Limit the Games you Can Play
Another condition with free spins is the game restrictions. Typically, free spins are tied to a specific slot game. This means you won’t be able to use them on any game you choose. Casinos usually select these games strategically. Sometimes to promote a new release or to steer players toward a game with a higher house edge.
Win Caps and Expiration Dates Can Sneak Up on You
Many promotions also include a cap on winnings from free spins. For example, even if you win a large sum, you might only be allowed to withdraw a portion of those winnings regardless of how much you actually won. A typical winning cap is $100, especially for spins you get without a deposit. This can be disappointing.
Also, free spins and any winnings they generate are often subject to expiration dates. Usually free spins must be played and wagered within 24 hours. This is a pretty strict time-frame. If you don’t use them in time, they vanish.
Understanding Free Spins and Their Terms is Crucial
So why is it important to understand all of this?
Knowing how free spins really work can help players make better decisions. It also prevents frustrations.
Without this understanding, it’s easy to fall into the trap of chasing “free” rewards that end up costing more time, effort and money than they’re worth — and it’s frustrating.
Also, when you understand how free spins work, you can adjust your betting style and improve your bankroll management. Players who are aware of wagering requirements and withdrawal caps are less likely to get swept up in unrealistic expectations.