The buy feature is an option available in some pokies that allows direct access to a bonus round under predefined conditions. This page provides an informational explanation of how buy feature mechanics work, without promoting or encouraging gambling activity.
What a buy feature is
A buy feature allows immediate entry into a specific bonus round, such as free spins or a feature mode, without waiting for that bonus to be triggered during base gameplay. The option is presented as part of the game’s configuration.
Buy features are designed to:
- Provide direct access to bonus content
- Reduce reliance on random bonus triggers
- Operate within clearly defined parameters
- Function as an optional game mode
How buy features are structured
When a buy feature is used, the game applies predefined rules that grant access to a bonus round. The cost, structure, and rules of the bonus are established during development and remain fixed.
Typical characteristics include:
- A predefined cost or entry condition
- Immediate transition to a bonus round
- Fixed bonus rules identical to standard bonus play
- No modification to base game probabilities
The structure does not change during play or between sessions.
Buy features and game mechanics
From a technical perspective, buy features do not alter the underlying mechanics of a pokie. Once inside the bonus round, outcomes are generated using the same random number generation process as in standard gameplay.
Key points about mechanics:
- RNG behaviour remains unchanged
- Bonus outcomes are independently generated
- RTP and volatility settings remain fixed
- No adaptive logic based on player behaviour
The difference lies in access to the bonus, not in how outcomes are produced.
Regulatory and configuration considerations
The availability of buy feature options varies by game and may be subject to regulatory restrictions depending on jurisdiction. As a result, buy features may be enabled, limited, or disabled based on configuration.
Design considerations often include:
- Jurisdictional compliance requirements
- Operator or platform configuration
- Transparency of feature rules and costs
These constraints affect availability but not the internal operation of the feature.
Technical overview
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Feature type | Optional bonus access |
| Access method | Direct entry under predefined rules |
| Effect on RNG | None |
| Effect on probabilities | None |
| Bonus mechanics | Same as standard bonus rounds |
| Availability | Game- and jurisdiction-dependent |
What you can do next
- Learn how free spin features are designed
- Read how payout structures apply to bonus rounds
- Explore how volatility is influenced by bonus features
- Return to the pokies section for more informational content
Informational disclaimer
PokiesHub Australia does not provide access to games or gambling services. This information is presented for educational purposes only.
The content is intended to help readers understand how buy feature mechanics are implemented within the design of pokies in the Australian gaming industry.