Hold and Spin slots are increasingly popular at UK online casinos, thanks to a distinctive mechanic that sets them apart from standard games. These titles include a feature often called Lock and Spin or Hold and Spin, which changes how bonus rounds unfold and how prizes are awarded.
This guide explains the basics of Hold and Spin slots, how the feature works, what triggers it, and how prizes are calculated. It also covers RTP and volatility, plus the ways developers add their own twists.
Understanding paytables and each game’s rules helps players make informed choices and set clear expectations. Keep reading for a clear, practical overview of Hold and Spin features and how to approach them sensibly.
What Is the Lock and Spin Feature?
The Lock and Spin feature, also called Hold and Spin, is a special bonus found in certain slots. When it triggers, selected symbols on the reels are held in place while the remaining positions spin for a limited number of turns.
Only specific symbols take part in the round, and each spin offers another chance to land more of them. New qualifying symbols are also locked, shaping the outcome of the feature as it progresses.
The round typically continues for a set number of spins or until no new triggering symbols land. When it ends, the game totals the locked symbols to determine the prize. As with all certified online slots, outcomes are produced by Random Number Generators, so each spin is independent.
Curious how this fits into normal play? Let’s link it back to the main game.
How Do Hold and Spin Slots Work?
Hold and Spin slots combine regular base-game spins with the special bonus round described above. During standard play, the reels spin as usual and the result for each spin is generated at random.
The feature is triggered by landing a required number or combination of special symbols in a single spin. Once active, the triggering symbols stay fixed and the remaining slots on the grid spin through a series of bonus turns. Any new special symbols that land are locked too, and the round continues until the rules say otherwise.
The feature uses its own payout system, usually based entirely on the locked symbols. When the round finishes, the game adds up those values and pays according to the paytable.
That naturally raises the next question: Which symbols switch the feature on?
What Symbols Trigger The Lock And Spin Bonus?
The Lock and Spin bonus is usually triggered by landing specific symbols during normal gameplay. Common examples include coins, orbs, gems, or other distinct icons chosen by the developer.
A set number of these symbols, often five or six or more in a single spin, is typically needed to activate the feature. The exact symbol types, how many are required, and where they can land are shown in the game’s paytable and help section.
Once you know what to look for, the next step is understanding how prizes are counted when the round begins.
How Are Prizes Awarded During The Lock And Spin Round?
During the Lock and Spin round, prizes are based on the special symbols that remain locked at the end. These symbols often display cash amounts, multipliers, or fixed jackpots, depending on the game.
Values on the locked symbols are added together to form the total win. Some slots layer in extras, such as awarding a bonus if the entire grid is filled, or boosting totals with multiplier symbols.
Full details are shown in the paytable, including how each symbol contributes. With the prize structure in mind, it helps to know how long the feature actually runs.
How Long Does The Lock And Spin Round Last And When Does It End?
The Lock and Spin round usually starts with a small number of spins, commonly three to five. Each time a new qualifying symbol lands, the remaining spins often reset to the starting amount, giving the feature another chance to continue.
The round ends if you reach zero remaining spins without landing a new qualifying symbol. In some games, filling every position with locked symbols ends the feature early and may trigger an additional award.
The exact rules vary between titles, so the paytable or help section is the best place to check the specifics. With the structure and timing clear, it is worth looking at fairness, RTP and volatility.
Are Hold And Spin Slots Fair And How Do RTP And Volatility Affect Them?
Hold and Spin slots use certified Random Number Generators, which ensure that every spin is independent and cannot be predicted. UK-licensed casino games are tested by approved laboratories to check that they work as intended.
Most slots display a Return to Player (RTP) percentage. RTP is a long-term theoretical average that indicates the amount of wagers expected to be returned to players over time. For example, a 96% RTP suggests that across a very large number of spins, total returns could average £96 for every £100 wagered. It does not indicate what will happen in any single session.
Volatility, sometimes called variance, describes the pattern of payouts. High volatility games tend to pay less often but may award larger prizes when they do. Low volatility games usually pay smaller amounts more frequently. RTP and volatility together shape how a game feels over time, but outcomes remain random.
Next, let’s look at how developers tweak these features from one title to another.
Developer Variations In Lock And Spin Mechanics
Developers often add their own twists to the core Hold and Spin idea. Differences might include how many special symbols are needed to trigger the round, how many spins the feature starts with, and whether the counter resets in a particular way.
Some titles add multipliers, fixed jackpots, or symbol upgrades that change values during the feature. Others include ways to retrigger more often or add extra rows and reels.
All of these details are set out in the rules and paytable for each slot. If you enjoy a particular style, it is worth checking how a new game’s version compares before you start.
How To Read The Paytable And Rules For Hold And Spin Features?
Every Hold and Spin slot includes a paytable and a rules or help section, typically opened via an “i”, “?” or menu button. The paytable shows all symbols, their values, and how features operate.
Look for the points that matter most to this mechanic: which symbols trigger the bonus, how many are needed, what each locked symbol is worth, and whether there are multipliers or fixed jackpots. The rules usually also list the RTP, volatility, how many spins the feature begins with, when the counter resets, and what ends the round.
Reading these sections first sets clear expectations and helps you compare games that use similar features. Only play with amounts you can afford, consider setting personal limits, and take breaks. If gambling starts to affect your wellbeing or finances, support is available from organisations such as GamCare and GambleAware.
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You will find a broad mix of games, including progressive jackpots, Megaways titles, and classic-style slots. All games come from established providers and use independently tested RNGs.
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Whether you try Hold and Spin titles or something more traditional, knowing how the features work helps you play with a clear plan.
**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.