What are free spins?
Free spins, also known as free plays, are spins that can be played without using a player's cash balance. Depending on the game or offer, they might be awarded as part of a feature, promotion or bonus.
You may have come across free spins while exploring slot games and wondered how they work. While the details can vary, free spins generally give players the opportunity to play a set number of spins without using their own balance.
In this guide, we'll explain how free spins work and what to look out for when they're offered.
How do free spins work?
Free spins work much like regular spins, except they don't use a player's cash balance for the spins that have been awarded.
The way free spins work depends on the game or offer. The game information or promotion terms should explain how they are awarded and how they can be used.
For example:
If a game awards 10 free spins, those spins can be played without using your cash balance. Once all available free spins have been used, the game returns to normal gameplay.
How can free spins be awarded?
Free spins can be awarded in different ways depending on the game or promotion.
As part of a game feature
Some slot games include free spins as part of their built-in features. These may be triggered by bonus symbols, scatter symbols or other game mechanics.
As part of a promotion
Free spins might also be included as part of a promotional offer. In these cases, the terms and conditions will explain how they are awarded and used.
As part of an account offer
Free spins might sometimes be included as part of a welcome offer or other account promotion. Any requirements or eligibility criteria should be explained in the offer terms. H3: Free Plays
tombola arcade also offers Free Plays, which allow players to try eligible games without making a deposit. Free Plays may be available as part of certain tombola arcade offers, allowing players to try eligible games without making a deposit.
As with any promotional offer, it's important to check the terms and conditions. These will explain how the Free Plays work, which games are eligible and whether any restrictions apply.
Free spins in games vs promotional free spins
While both involve free spins, there is an important difference between spins awarded within a game and spins awarded through a promotion.
In-game free spins
In-game free spins form part of a game's features. They are usually triggered according to the game's rules and are built into the gameplay experience.
Promotional free spins
Promotional free spins are linked to a specific offer. They might come with terms and conditions that explain how they can be used and whether any restrictions apply.
Understanding where free spins come from can help you understand how they work and whether any additional terms apply.
What should you check before using free spins?
If you're offered free spins, it's worth taking a look at the game information or promotion terms before using them. Key things to check include:
- Eligible games: Some free spins can only be used on specific games. The terms should explain which games qualify.
- Expiry dates: Free spins might only be available for a limited period of time. The expiry date should be explained in the relevant terms.
- Stake values: The terms might explain the value attached to each free spin and any stakes that apply.
- Winnings and withdrawals: Some offers might include conditions relating to winnings or withdrawals. The terms and conditions will explain any requirements that apply.
Do free spins guarantee a win?
Free spins work like any other spin in a game. While they don't use your cash balance for the awarded spins, the outcome is still determined by the game's mechanics.
It's worth remembering that:
- Every spin is independent: Previous results don't influence future outcomes, regardless of whether a spin is free or paid for.
- Results can vary: Some free spins may result in winnings, while others may not. The outcome of each spin depends on the game and its rules.
- Promotional free spins may have terms and conditions: If free spins are linked to an offer, it's important to understand how they work and whether any additional conditions apply.
Free spins vs bonus games
Free spins and bonus games are often mentioned together, but they aren't the same thing.
At a glance
Free spins
- Allow spins to be played without using a player's cash balance for those spins
- Might be awarded as part of a game feature or promotional offer
Bonus games
- Are additional features or rounds within a slot game
- Might introduce different screens, mechanics or ways to play
Some games include free spins as part of a bonus feature, while others keep free spins and bonus games separate.
If you'd like to learn more, read our guide, 'What are bonus games?'
Things to remember about free spins
Free spins can be awarded in different ways, depending on the game or offer.
- They don't use your cash balance for the awarded spins
- They don't guarantee a win
- Each spin is still random
- Promotional free spins may include terms and conditions
It's always worth checking the game information or offer terms so you understand exactly how the free spins work.
Ready to learn more?
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A quick recap
Free spins are spins that can be played without using a player's cash balance for those spins. They can be awarded through game features, promotional offers or other bonuses, depending on how they're offered.
Free spins work in the same way as any other spin, and the outcome is still random. That's why it's always worth checking the game information and any relevant terms before using them.