How casino bonuses really work (and how to spot a bad one)
Wagering requirements, game weighting and max-bet rules — the maths behind every welcome offer.
Every casino bonus comes with conditions. The headline number — "100% up to €200" — tells you very little. What matters is how much you need to bet before you can withdraw, and which games count.
Wagering requirements
A 35x wagering requirement on a €100 bonus means you must place €3,500 in bets before the bonus turns into withdrawable cash. With a slot paying 96% RTP, the expected loss over €3,500 of play is roughly €140 — more than the bonus itself. That's why high-wagering offers are usually worth less than they look.
Game weighting
Slots usually count 100% towards wagering. Table games and live casino often count 10–20%, or not at all. Always check the weighting table in the terms.
Max bet and time limits
Most bonuses cap your bet size (often €5) while wagering, and give you a limited time — 7 to 30 days — to complete it. Breaking the max-bet rule can void your winnings.
Wager-free offers
A few operators, such as PlayOJO, give free spins with no wagering at all. A smaller, wager-free offer is frequently worth more than a big bonus with 40x playthrough.
Checklist before you accept
- Wagering multiplier — and is it on bonus only, or bonus + deposit?
- Game weighting and excluded games
- Maximum bet while wagering
- Time limit
- Maximum cash-out from bonus winnings