As online casinos become more and more popular, players from all over the world are wondering what those bonus deals everyone is raving about. It is impossible to miss out on them because as soon as you visit a casino page you see banners, notifications and pop-ups, reminding you to sign up and get the money. But is it free money we are talking about, or is there a Catch-22? How can new casino players tell a good bonus from a bad one, and what types of deals are available in the iGaming jungle?
What is a Casino Bonus?
A casino bonus is a marketing incentive designed to convince players to sign up. Although many online gambling operators say it is free money, casino online Polska and other responsible brands transparently inform players that the bonus cannot be withdrawn without wagering it properly.
The wagering requirement is the most important element of every bonus and one that is easiest to overlook. Typically, expressed in the form of a multiplier (x30, x40, x50 and so on), it shows how many times you have to wager the entire bonus amount (and often the deposit as well) before you can cash it out.
Advantages of Playing With Bonuses
Before we proceed, let’s take a look at some benefits new players get from claiming bonus deals:
- Boosted gaming balance;
- The ability to try more games than with just your deposit;
- An added level of excitement;
- The feeling of appreciation;
- You get a head start.
Disadvantages of Playing With Bonuses
Playing with bonus money also introduces certain disadvantages into the mix:
- You may have to play more than initially planned to wager the bonus;
- Game restrictions reduce the level of satisfaction;
- Sometimes players spend more to get a bonus.
No Deposit Bonus: An Attractive Deal that Might Not Be Worth It
No deposit bonus is one of the most popular promotions out there. Players love it because they don’t have to deposit to redeem the deal. They get a playing token, a small cash amount or a number of free spins to get a taste of what the casino offers. In other words, it is free gambling money, in one form or the other, at least at the very beginning.
If they like the casino, great. And if not? They can simply find another operator to play with, no strings attached. Despite the high demand, such deals are not easy to find.
Besides, they also come with a set of bonus rules that are often more strict and elaborate than in the case of classic deposit-based deals. Here are some common practices:
- No deposit bonuses often have a much higher wagering requirement than traditional offers;
- Players tend to have a short deadline to wager it;
- The maximum prize and maximum withdrawal are frequently capped at around $100. The rest is forfeited to the casino;
- You must play the bonus on a handful of selected games;
- To cash out the profits after wagering the promotion, you will have to make a deposit.
Use this bonus only if you are sure it won’t сause you stress or lead to overspending. Remember, it is always possible to politely decline the no deposit offer and move forward.
Welcome Bonus Package: The Most Common Offers on the Market
Unlike the no deposit bonus, the welcome package is available at almost every casino on the market. It is a promotion reserved for new players and is triggered by one or more deposits. Occasionally, players have to use a special bonus code, as well.
When it comes to the size, there are two types of welcome bonus:
- One-time deal, available only after you make the first deposit;
- Multi-tiered bonus packages, available after multiple subsequent deposits.
Needless to say, the latter are often bigger.
Now, let’s see what types of welcome bonuses exist:
- Money bonus: A deposit bonus that will match your bonus by a certain percent, up to a predetermined amount;
- Free spins bonus: A bonus based on free bets available on selected slot machines;
- Combo deals: Bonuses that offer both a deposit match and free spins.
Classic welcome bonuses can be potentially very beneficial for players as long as they find a deal that is in line with their style, budget, and preferences.
Source: Pinterest
Claiming Bonus Deals Can Be A Great Opportunity
When it comes to bonuses, new players must keep a cool head and observe all important factors before agreeing to a deal. Keep in mind responsible gaming practices, be critical of big promises, and never spend more than you can afford just to get your hands on the deal.
A little bit of research goes a long way, and don’t forget: it is better to claim a smaller deal, but one you can wager without much effort!
