What is a Second-Screen Bonus?

If you've played more than a handful of slots already, chances are you may already know the answer to that question. However, if you're new to slots, you may have heard the term second-screen bonus, and you're wondering what it means.

You might well guess it refers to a screen other than the regular one you will see when you play a slot game. For example, the regular screen would show you the reel set in use for that game. If you trigger the bonus, it will take place on a second screen that is entirely different to the one you normally see - hence the second-screen bonus.

What happens on the second screen?

This depends on the game, but you will typically see a scene that ties in with the theme of the game. There won't be any reels involved. Instead, you will be presented with a scenario, and you will be asked to perform certain actions.

For example, let's say you are playing a slot game with an Egyptian theme. The second screen bonus might take you inside one of the pyramids, and you might be asked to choose certain treasures in there. A pick-me game is one of the more common scenarios that will play out on the second screen. Usually, you will either be asked to pick one item from several, or you can carry on picking items until you reveal one that says stop, or has something hidden behind it to end the game.

Another example would be a game that presents you with an activity or scene of some sort. Let's say you're playing a game based on basketball. The bonus here might ask you to select a player to shoot some hoops for you. The more balls they get through the hoop, the more prizes you will win. There might even be a bonus prize if your player makes all of them.

Lots of variety in the second-screen bonus

While many games offer a pick-me feature or a selection game of some kind in the bonus round, this doesn't always happen. We've seen games that offer anything from arm wrestling to sword fighting! That's the beauty of the second-screen bonus - you never know what might be in store for you.

Look out for online slots featuring these bonuses now. They give you time away from the main game and they can be packed with prizes, too.