How Casino Game Types Affect Bonus Eligibility & Weighting
Key Insights
Quick Answer:
Best X for Y: Best game type to clear wagering fast: RNG slots that count 100%
Best time to do X: Best time to check weighting: before you claim the bonus
Biggest mistake: Assuming allowed games always count the same
Pro tip: If a game is low-weighted, your wagering bar will crawl
In two minutes, you’ll know what counts, what doesn’t, and why.
You grab a welcome bonus, pick one of the casino game types you actually enjoy, and start playing. Ten minutes later, you switch casino game types (say, from slots to roulette), and the wagering tracker barely twitches. That’s not your phone bugging out. Game type can decide two big things: whether you can use bonus money at all, and how fast your bets count toward the target. For the full menu, see The Complete Guide to Casino Game Types. Same bet, different progress.
What bonus eligibility and weighting mean (in plain English)
Eligibility means: can you use bonus money on this game at all.
Weighting (also called contribution) means: how much of each bet counts toward your wagering requirement.
- A $10 bet at 100% counts like $10
- A $10 bet at 10% counts like $1
That’s why table games vs slots matters so much: two players can bet the same amount, but one clears the bonus way faster.
If you want the simple “why are these treated differently?” breakdown, read How Table Games Differ From Machine Games.
Why casinos weight different casino game categories differently
Casinos don’t weight games differently just to mess with you (even if it feels personal). Different casino game categories make it easier or harder to “grind” a bonus.
Here’s the simple why:
- Some games are faster, so you can rack up tons of bets quickly.
- Some games let skilled players cut the edge with smart choices.
- Some games have lower swings, so you can play steady for longer.
- Some games are easier to hedge or manage risk.
This is where chance vs skill casino games comes in. The more control a player has, the more careful casinos get with bonus rules. If you want a clean explanation of that idea, check How Casino Games Are Categorized by Skill vs Luck.
Speed matters too. Fast-paced casino games can chew through wagering fast, which is great for you, but risky for the promo budget. That’s why some quick games are down-weighted or blocked during bonus play. For a handy way to think about this, see Chance-Based vs Decision-Based Casino Games Explained.
How different types of casino games usually count toward bonuses
Quick reminder: every casino writes its own rules, so always check the promo terms before you hit “claim.” Still, most sites follow the same general patterns across the big casino game categories below.
RNG slots (usually the easiest for bonus play)
Usually eligible, and often the smoothest route. Most bonuses are built around RNG casino games like standard video slots, so they often count more (sometimes 100%).
High volatility vs low volatility games won’t change the rule, but it changes the ride: high volatility can feel like nothing happens for ages, then boom; low volatility feels steadier. If you want the simple version, read High-Volatility Game Types vs Low-Volatility Game Types.
Tip: pick normal slots over jackpots, and skip bonus buys/feature buys while you’re on a bonus.
Table games vs slots (why tables often count less)
Sometimes eligible, but often low-weighted. Table games like blackjack, roulette, and baccarat are easier to play “steady,” so casinos don’t love bonuses being cleared that way.
That’s the real reason table games vs slots can feel unfair during wagering: tables can be lower risk, so they often get lower contribution.
Tip: if you love tables, only use a bonus when the table contribution rate is clearly stated and not tiny.
Live dealer game types (often allowed, often down-weighted)
Often allowed, but often down-weighted. Many live dealer game types are treated like table games, and sometimes even more restricted because the play can be slower and the edge can be smaller.
Live games also make it easier to control your pace and bet sizing. That’s great for fun, but it can make bonus clearing “too safe” in a casino’s eyes.
Tip: live is a blast, but it’s rarely the fastest way to clear a bonus. If you want the exact difference explained, read The Difference Between RNG-Based and Live Casino Game Types.
Instant win casino games (fast, fun, and sometimes excluded)
Sometimes eligible, and sometimes straight-up blocked. Instant win casino games can include crash games, scratch cards, and keno-style games.
The big issue is speed. Rounds can be super fast, so players can pile up a lot of action in a short time, which is why these games may be limited during bonus play.
Tip: before you rapid-fire these, check the rules for “0% contribution” or “excluded games.” For a quick primer, see Instant-Win Casino Games: What They Are & How They Work.
Mobile casino game types (does playing on your phone change anything)
Usually eligible if the game itself is eligible. Mobile casino game types don’t normally get special weighting just because you’re on a phone. The game and the promo rules decide the contribution, not the device.
Tip: mobile is perfect for short sessions, but set a timer so you don’t drift into fast play and miss max-bet rules.
The rule traps that make a game “not count” (even if it’s the right type)
This is the part where I save you from stepping on a rake. Even when you’re playing the “right” casino game type, a few common traps can make your bets count less (or not at all).
- Jackpot versions of slots can be excluded from wagering.
- Bonus buy/feature buy spins can be excluded, even on slots that normally count.
- Side bets can be excluded or count less than the main bet.
- Some games are “playable,” but contribute 0%, so your tracker won’t move.
- Max bet rules can void winnings even if the game is eligible.
If you’re the kind of player who naturally leans into quick rounds, it also helps to understand how speed changes risk. This comparison is a good quick read: Fast-Paced vs Slow-Paced Casino Games Compared.
How to check bonus eligibility and weighting in 60 seconds
Do this quick pre-flight check every time. If you’re unsure where your game fits, skim An Overview of All Casino Game Types (Complete Breakdown) first.
- Find the bonus terms page
- Find the eligible games list or the contribution table
- Confirm your main game’s percentage
- Check max bet, time limit, and max cashout
- If anything is unclear, don’t claim yet
One more move: screenshot the rules you’re using, so there’s no confusion later.
Best game types to clear wagering without the headache
If your goal is simple progress with less drama, keep it boring (in a good way).
- If you want to clear wagering smoothly, stick to eligible RNG slots that count 100%.
- If you hate slots, accept that table games may be slower and only use them when the contribution is decent.
- Keep bets steady while you clear the requirement, then get fancy after.
This is also where beginner-friendly casino games help. Pick games you understand, so you don’t misclick into feature buys, side bets, or some weird version that doesn’t count. If you want a quick “start here” list, read Ranking Game Types by Ease of Learning for Beginners.
One last thing on pace: fast play clears volume quicker, but it can burn your bankroll faster too, so don’t rush.
FAQs on bonus eligibility and game weighting
Do table games count toward wagering?
Sometimes, yes, but often at a lower rate than slots. It depends on the casino and the exact promo. Always look for a contribution table in the terms. If you don’t see a percentage, assume it might be low until proven otherwise.
Do live dealer games count toward wagering?
Often they do, but many casinos down-weight them like table games. Some promos allow live dealer game types for play, yet contribute less (or 0%) for wagering. Check the terms before you sit down at a live table. Live is usually for fun first, speed second.
Why do some slots not count (jackpots, bonus buys)?
Jackpot slots and bonus buys can be excluded because they can change the risk and payout pattern in ways casinos don’t want during promos. Some sites also treat them as separate game rules, even if they look like “just a slot.” Always scan the excluded games list. If you’re unsure, stick to plain, normal slots.
What are RNG casino games?
RNG casino games use a random number generator to decide outcomes, like most standard online slots. Each spin or round is meant to be random and independent. In bonus terms, RNG games often have clearer contribution rules than live games. That’s why they’re commonly the easiest for bonus play.
Can I switch games while clearing a bonus (and what to watch for)?
Yes, you usually can, but your contribution rate may change instantly. Switching from slots to tables can slow your progress a lot, even if both are “allowed.” Watch for max bet rules, excluded side bets, and versions like jackpots or bonus buys. When in doubt, pick one eligible game and ride it out until the requirement is done.
Where To Go Next
Casino game types decide two things: what’s eligible, and how fast you clear. Weighting is basically the casino’s way of saying, “This game is easier to grind than that one.” Next read: How Casino Games Are Categorized by Skill vs Luck.
Next Steps
Want the quick table rundown? Start with How Table Games Differ From Machine Games.
Choosing between live and regular play? Read The Difference Between RNG-Based and Live Casino Game Types.
Picking slots for your mood and bankroll? See High-Volatility Game Types vs Low-Volatility Game Types.
