Free spins feature: what it means in slots
A slot’s free spins feature is a bonus round, usually triggered by three or more scatters, in which the reels spin without charge at the triggering stake, often with extra wilds, multipliers or expanding symbols.
By Ryan Jessop. Updated .
Key takeaways
- A bonus round inside the game.
- Usually triggered by 3+ scatters.
- Plays at the triggering stake.
- Often holds much of the slot’s RTP.
Feature vs offer spins
The feature is part of the game. Offer free spins are paid spins the casino funds. Offer spins can trigger the feature like any other spin; see spin types explained.
Features in our reviewed slots
- Big Bass Bonanza: fisherman wilds collect fish money values.
- Book of Dead: 10 spins with an expanding special symbol.
- Sweet Bonanza: tumbles with multiplier bombs.
Where the RTP lives
In feature-heavy slots, sessions that never trigger free spins run well below the headline RTP, and those that do can run far above it.
Back to: the full slot and spins glossary.
Slot figures are developers' published defaults, each confirmed against two sources; your casino may run a lower RTP. Offer terms dated 9 October 2026. How we check. 18+. Free help: 0808 8020 133 or safer gambling.
Frequently asked questions
How do I trigger free spins in a slot?
Usually by landing three or more scatter symbols.
Can I buy the free spins feature in the UK?
No.
Do free spins features retrigger?
Many do; see retrigger.