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One of the most popular software providers, Dragonfish, has updated its rules for Instant Games (often offered by bingo sites as sidegames). The new terms went into effect on the 13th January 2025, so let's take a look at them.
The Change in Ts&Cs
Before the T&C changes for Dragonfish sites players were allowed to win an unlimited amount when using bonus cash. That meant that if somebody won a jackpot, their winnings remaining after fulfilling the wagering requirements (more on those just below) would be moved to the cash bankroll balance that could be withdrawn. Now, however, the maximum winnings have been capped at £400 + bonus received. Let's crunch those numbers:
- you receive a £100 in bonus cash
- then you have a string of nice wins
- you only can withdraw £500 total
- that's the £100 bonus + £400 of your winnings
- but, only after satisfying the wagering requirements!
The Importance of Wagering Requirements
'Wagering', also called play through, is a very common restriction bingo and casino sites place upon their bonuses. The rule that wagering requirements must be met before requesting a withdrawal containing winnings is the crux of Dragonfish's new policy update — although it was true before the cap on winnings.
Wagering varies from site to site, and is can be as low as 20X at casinos, but unfortunately climbs as high as 50X for casino games (like slots or scratchies) found at bingo sites. The fact that there is a maximum win limit means players have much less incentive for getting the huge wins that could escape their wagering requirements.
Why This Happened
This is an example of how national law and domestic economics can affect the gaming industry. In the UK, the newest budget includes a Free Bet Tax. That eats into Dragonfish's profits. It also needs to buffer itself against players who are lucky enough to have massive wins while using free bonus cash.
STAY INFORMED: The announcement of this change was emailed to all members of Dragonfish's sites, so do check to make sure you received it. If not, we suggest you update your email settings so you can stay abreast of any new developments.
What it Means to Players
Obviously, this means that new players joining bingo sites should lower their expectations of winning using their bonus cash. Specifically, they should lower their expectations to £400, in fact.
Who This Affects
This new policy affects players enrolled at sites affiliated with the whole Dragonfish network. An important point about Dragonfish promotions is this: its new players are not given the option to opt out. It is fair to say that because you must play with your bonus cash, it might be best to regard it as simply a way to familiarise with your new bingo site, meet roomies and master games that you can hope to win big on later using your own cash.
On the Bright Side
Want to know what remains good about the Dragonfish brand Ts and Cs despite the changes? If you win a big amount on progressive slots those winnings still are exempt from this new rule!
The exception from the win cap on progressives (the kind of jackpots that increase over time until they are won) provides some solace. This preserves the incentive for players to enjoy their bonus cash rewards.
