This is well-trod ground, but it's common with any job where the supply/demand ratio is severely in the employers favor.

Not a ton of those jobs in tech, but the dynamic is frankly pretty similar to professional cheerleaders. Lots of people want the job, relatively few of them, and the skill floor isn't all that high.

It's common in tech two.

Of the places I've worked that promise some form of bonus, I have only been paid a single one - $172.

In my experience, bonuses are almost solely a carrot to hang over people's head. They rarely actually get paid out even if the company is doing well.

Stock and options have there downfalls, but at least their terms are in writing.

Because they have a line of people wanting to work for them despite everything.