Game contribution: why a low-edge game can be the dearest way to clear a bonus
Bonus terms often let each game count only a share of its stakes towards the wagering. Roulette counted at 10% must be staked ten times as much, so 100 of wagering credit costs 27.03 on average, against 4.00 on a slot paying back 96% that counts in full.
| Game | House edge | Counts towards wagering | Average cost of 100 of wagering credit |
|---|---|---|---|
| A slot paying back 96% | 4.00% | 100% | 4.00 |
| European roulette, any bet | 2.70% | 100% | 2.70 |
| European roulette, any bet | 2.70% | 20% | 13.51 |
| European roulette, any bet | 2.70% | 10% | 27.03 |
| Blackjack, basic strategy | 0.57% | 10% | 5.70 |
| Blackjack, basic strategy | 0.57% | 5% | 11.41 |
| Baccarat, banker bet | 1.06% | 10% | 10.58 |
Reading the table
- The cost of wagering on a game is its house edge divided by the share that counts. A low edge at a low share can cost more than a high edge in full.
- Blackjack played perfectly has the lowest edge here, 0.57%, but at 10% each 100 of credit costs 5.70, and at 5% 11.41.
- Games that count 0% cannot clear a bonus at all, and some terms void a bonus that is played on them.
Put your own game and share into the bonus value calculator.
A bonus does not change the house edge of any game. If gambling stops being fun, free help is available.
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