Slot machines are a favorite for many people. They are very easy to play and appear so colorful. But have you ever wondered why, in some games, you receive prizes every few minutes, while in other games you go a long time without making noise about prizes? The reason for this is known as variance or volatility.
So, if you want to have maximum fun, it is essential that you choose a game based on how you want to play it. Some people may want to win a prize and then have enough money to spend by playing regularly, while others may want a boom moment. In this guide, we will find out what these words mean and how you can select the right games for your style.
What is Slot Volatility?
Do you enjoy spinning the reels on an online slot machine? Have you ever wondered why some games feel like a rollercoaster while others are like a gentle stroll in the park? That’s where volatility comes in. Basically, volatility is a fancy way of describing the risk and unpredictability in a game. You can think of it like a personality for a slot machine.
It tells you important things like:
- How often will the game pay out
- How big will the payouts be
It is important to note that even if two games have the same RTP (Return to Player) percentage, they can feel very different. The experts at Cache Creek explain that volatility is programmed into the math of the game, and this decides whether the money will be spread out in several small bits or it will be saved up for a few giant prizes.
Slot Volatility: The Three Main Types of Games
There are broadly three main types of slot volatility that games fall under. Those are:
- Low volatility
Low volatility slot games are your laid-back buddies. These games are akin to a slow and steady walk, where you will see winning symbols line up ever so often. But the prizes are usually small.
Low volatility slot games are for casual players who want to enjoy the moment and stay engaged for several hours. These games are great for entertainment, and every now and then, you’ll see yourself winning on the screen. According to data, these games have a hit frequency of around 25% to 35%.
So, if you just want to have a good time without the pressure, low volatility slot games are for you.
- Medium volatility
Medium volatility slot games are the chill middle ground where you get a mix of small wins and the occasional medium-sized prize. These games toss you some nice wins every now and then and keep you interested because there might be a bigger win just around the corner. It is this anticipation and excitement that bring players back.
Medium volatility games are for players who have a bit of patience but are always looking forward to some action. These games offer balance and don’t come with high risks. Also, they keep players interested just enough by assuring them a meaningful win, which is more than what low volatility slot games offer.
- High volatility
High volatility slot games are where players are chasing the jackpot for the day. These games are not for the faint-hearted, as you might go 20 or even 30 spins without winning any prize. Yes, it can feel a bit scary, but it finally hits, the prize can be huge, and then every minute or hour spent playing the game feels worth it.
High volatility games are for risk-takers who are not afraid to lose a couple of rounds if it means the prize is big. These games are played for the thrill of winning big, and long dry spells are normal.
How to Tell a Game’s Volatility
When it comes to understanding the volatility of a game, you do not have to be excellent at math. You just need to understand the following things:
- Check the table: Take a look at the biggest prize offered by the game. If the top prize is massive (like 10,000x of your wager), the game is likely high volatility and carries a lot of risk and unpredictability. Similarly, if the top prize is small, it is probably low or medium volatility.
- Take a look at the bonus features: There are some games that offer a lot of free spins and multiplayer, while others do not. You might think that these are advantageous for you, but in reality, these mean the game is more volatile. Since the winning chances are slim, the games create multiple chances for you to stay engaged and not lose hope.
- Read the information screen: One of the best ways to tell whether the volatility of the game is low, medium, or high is to read the information screen. Go through the rules and other instructions, and you might find the game itself telling you what to expect.
If you are someone who loves exploring different styles of slot games in a safe way, you can use a social platform like Jackpota. Social gaming platforms are a fun choice as they allow you to try many different games without the stress of a traditional casino. This also helps you learn which personality of the game suits you the best.
How to Pick Your Style?
To pick the right game, you need to ask yourself: What is my goal today?
If your goal is to play for 2 hours and have fun without worrying about the risks, low volatility is the best choice for you.
If your goal is to get a chance to win a big prize but you do not want to lose fast, medium volatility is the best choice.
If your goal is to win a massive jackpot and you are willing to try as many times as you have to, high volatility is the choice for you.
Tips for Success
- Watch your budget: High volatility games need a bigger bankroll because of the dry spells.
- Don’t chase losses: If a high-risk game isn’t hitting, taking a break is smarter than betting more.
- Try the demo: Most sites let you play for free first. This is the best way to feel the rhythm of the game.
Final Thoughts
There is no perfect game. A low volatility (or variance) game isn’t better than a high one. It all depends on what makes you happy. Do you love the constant chime of small wins? Or do you live for the moment the screen flashes and a giant jackpot lands?
By understanding variance and volatility, you take the guesswork out of your fun. You can walk into a game knowing exactly what to expect. This keeps your play time safe, fun, and exactly the way you like it.