Locked Bonus
A locked bonus in online poker is a reward that is not instantly available to the player. Instead, it is held in a separate "locked" balance and gets gradually released as the player plays more hands or generates rake. This model encourages ongoing gameplay and retains players by giving them a reason to keep coming back.
How Locked Bonus Works (Step-by-Step)?
Bonus Is Assigned but Not Credited When a player enters a bonus code or makes a qualifying deposit, they are awarded a locked bonus (e.g., $1,000), but this amount is not added to their playable balance yet.
Release Based on Rake or Hands Played The locked bonus is released in chunks (e.g., $100 every time the player generates $250 in rake). This is often called a "clear rate" or "release rate."
Example:
Locked Bonus: $1,000
Release Rule: $100 for every $250 in rake
If the player generates $500 in rake, $200 is released to their wallet, and $800 remains locked.
Release Period or Expiry Most locked bonuses come with a time limit (e.g., 30 days). If the player doesn’t meet the conditions within that time, the remaining locked amount expires.
Tracking Players can usually see:
Locked bonus balance
Rake generated so far
Amount released and remaining
Time left before expiry
Why Use Locked Bonuses?
Increase Player Retention: Players stay active longer to unlock their bonus.
Ensure Real Engagement: Unlike instant bonuses, the platform only rewards real activity (rake).
Limit Abuse: Players can’t withdraw or misuse the bonus without participating in games.
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