Since its sudden shift into edgy, controversial themes with Punk Rocker in 2020, Nolimit City has been an unquestionable trailblazer when it comes to unique ideas for game narratives. However, the studio hasn't stopped there and extended its creative approach to the main features, developing a wide range of so-called 'X mechanics'. Once the core elements responsible for delivering the majority of the experience were in place, the team also put their heads together to spice it up with extra layers of engagement in the form of Feature Buy triggers. This has brought on an extensive array of boosted spins, instant bonuses, extra spins, and the god mode. With the release of Soaked by Seamen in June 2026, a new Side Hustle format has emerged, offering even more opportunities for punters to get more value from their wagers.
Ante bets have been present in gambling for years, particularly in all kinds of table games, but they started to make themselves comfortable in slots as well in the first half of the 2020s. Side Hustle is not just any old ante bet, though. It's an entirely new way of capitalising on your regular spins by trying to predict their outcome, which is closely tied to the game's core features. As the producers said themselves: 'Why have only one way to hustle, when you can have two?' So, by paying a bit more on top of your base stake, you can yield greater returns if the condition of the particular bet type is fulfilled.
- Staking 1.8x of your base bet can get you a payout worth 63.45x if your spin achieves at least 10 Fire Frames.
- Staking 2x of your base bet can get you a payout worth 284.35x if your spin achieves a multiplier of at least x20.
- You can even bet on non-winning spins by staking 11x of your base bet, which returns 12x if no win occurs.
To use Side Hustle, look for the icon with the flame on the game's main screen. You will see a window with all bet types and their possible payouts displayed. Clicking on each opens a description of the particular bet and gives you the option to activate it. Once you do, hit spin and observe the round's outcome. If the condition of the Side Hustle bet has been met, you will see a green tick in the box where the flame icon was, and a corresponding extra payout will be added to your balance.
Whether Side Hustle proves to be a hit among the players, time will tell. Still, with the rapidly growing demand for all kinds of Feature Buy mechanics, especially from streamers and high-rollers, there's a good chance it will become a welcome addition. Its specific nature, relying on tangible results of the round you're betting on, may just be the deciding factor, compared to the randomness and volatility of standard boosted bets and bonus buys.
Watch the studio's presentation on this new feature below.
