A bonus game for a slot machine, method and apparatus, is disclosed and is based on a playfield configured as a matrix of playing positions, wherein each playing is used to display a character of the alphabet, and wherein a plurality of words are hidden in the playfield. During the bonus game, the rows and/or columns of the playfield are rotated, and then are randomly stopped to uncover hidden words. Each hidden word has a payout amount associated with it, which is paid to the player upon uncovering the word. A plurality of sound and visual effects is also provided to heighten the enjoyment of the bonus game.