Slot games have come a long way from the days of classic fruit machines and one-armed bandits. With the rise of online casinos, developers now release new titles regularly, each aiming to offer something a little different.
To stand out in such a crowded market, slot providers often introduce unique bonus features to try to make gameplay more engaging. One of those is the Hold and Spin feature, which has become a popular mechanic in recent years.
In this blog post, we’ll explore what Hold and Spin slots are, how they work, and which games include this feature if you’re looking to try it out. Read on to learn more.
What Does Hold and Spin Mean on Slot Machines?
Hold and Spin is a bonus feature often associated with slot providers like Pragmatic Play. It works by holding (or "locking") specific symbols on the reels while the remaining positions spin again in a series of Respins. Microgaming’s Link&Win feature functions in a similar way.
If a slot has the Hold and Spin mechanic, it usually means there’s a bonus round where certain high-value symbols stay in place. The more symbols that land and stick, the greater the potential prize. In some games, this can even lead to fixed jackpots or a grand potential prize if the grid is completely filled with the held symbols.
How Does The Hold and Spin Feature Work?
To trigger the Hold and Spin feature, a player typically needs to land a set number of special symbols in a single spin—though the specifics can vary between games. The exact requirement can usually be found in the game’s paytable. 
Once triggered, the player is usually awarded around 3 Respins to start with. During this bonus round, the symbols that activated the feature will remain locked in place, and each time a new matching symbol lands, the Respins counter may reset. When no more new symbols appear and the Respins run out, the player will typically be awarded the combined value of all the visible symbols—or a jackpot, depending on the game.
Some games take a more creative approach. For instance, Cash Elevator doesn’t trigger the feature with symbols. Instead, the bonus starts when a player reaches the 13th floor of a virtual building, where they then select from options to determine their starting position in the bonus round.
Since these mechanics can vary, it’s always worth reading the paytable to understand how each game's bonus features work if you intend to play.
How Do You Play Hold & Win Slots?
Playing a Hold and Spin slot is generally no different from playing any other slot. If you’re interested in trying one, you can follow this simple process:
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Log in to your Wizard Slots account or sign up if you haven’t already. You can also choose a fully licensed UKGC-regulated casino of your preference.
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Choose a slot that includes the Hold and Spin feature.
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Set your bet using the controls on the game screen. You can usually adjust this between spins.
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Check the paytable to understand how the Hold and Spin feature triggers and what rewards it may offer.
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Spin the reels and see what symbols land.
Keep in mind that slot games operate using Random Number Generator (RNG) software. This means outcomes are random, and even if you’re playing a Hold and Spin slot, there’s no guarantee that the feature will trigger during your session.
Best Hold and Spin Slots To Play
There’s no single “best” Hold and Spin slot—what stands out often depends on the theme, features, or payout style you prefer. However, here are a few well-known titles you might want to explore:
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Hot To Burn Hold & Spin: A high-volatility slot with classic fruit machine visuals and strong win potential:
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RTP: 96.70%.
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Max win: Up to 20,000x your stake.
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Feature: Land 5 or more Money symbols to activate 4 Respins, which reset every time a new symbol lands. Filling the grid triggers the Big Money Wheel, with prizes of up to 5,000x.
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Ultra Hold & Spin: A 3x3 retro slot with a simple layout and mobile-friendly interface:
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RTP: 96.7%.
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Max win: Up to 500x your stake.
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Feature: Triggered by landing 3 Money symbols on the middle reel, leading to a Respins round with fixed Money symbols.
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Cash Elevator: A steampunk-style game with a unique way of unlocking the Hold and Spin bonus:
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RTP: 96.64%.
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Max win: Up to 20,000x your stake.
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Feature: Reach the 13th floor to trigger the bonus. Before the round begins, you’ll choose from 3 options to determine how many Money symbols are placed on the reels.
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Rock Vegas: A prehistoric-themed slot with oversized reels during the bonus round:
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RTP: 96.64%.
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Max win: Up to 10,000x your stake.
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Feature: Land 3 or more Bonus symbols to start the Mega Hold and Spin on a 10x10 grid. Bonus symbols can appear in various sizes, and a Multiplier Trail boosts win potential.
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*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins, etc.) mentioned in relation to these games are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.
**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.