Posted in Guides, Industry January 13, 2019
Volatility and RTP – Discover How These Features Can Impact Your Slot Gaming Experience
If you’re an avid reader of online slots resources and guides, then you’re probably familiar with the terms ‘volatility’ and ‘Return to Player’ (RTP). These terms are frequently used in the casino industry because they can greatly influence your gaming experience and determine how much and how often you win when playing slot games. It’s important to understand these terms and learn how to take advantage of them. This guide will explain how volatility and RTP work and provide tips on how you can use this knowledge to your advantage.
Volatility in Online Slots
Volatility, also known as variance, refers to the riskiness of a game. Slots are categorized as low, medium, or high variance. A low variance slot game is less risky, while a high variance slot game has a higher chance of you losing. However, high variance slots also offer the possibility of earning bigger prizes. In other words, they come with higher risks but also provide a higher chance of winning.
The Connection Between RTP and Slot Volatility
Return to Player (RTP) is slightly different from slot volatility. RTP is expressed as a percentage and represents the average amount of funds a game (casino) will return to players. Most slots have an RTP ranging from 94% to 98%. For example, if a slot game has an RTP of 95%, it means that if $100 is wagered, the game will, on average, return $95 to the players. Generally, the higher the RTP, the better your chances of keeping your bankroll intact.
In addition to RTP, the volatility of slots also determines how much will be left in your bankroll after a gaming session. The variance or volatility tells you how much your chosen slot game will deviate from the published RTP in a single session.
Here’s an example to illustrate the relationship between variance and RTP:
Let’s say you choose a low variance NetEnt game with a published RTP of 95%. Because it’s a low variance game, it will pay out more frequently but in smaller amounts. If you start with a bankroll of $10, you could end up with $15 after your session, resulting in a Return to Player of 150%.
High variance games, on the other hand, can have an erratic distribution of wins and losses. If you choose a high variance slot game with a 95% RTP, it’s possible to get no wins for the first 10 or 15 spins, but you might win a payout of 1,000 times your initial wager after 100 spins. Overall, this translates to a 333% RTP, which is significantly better than the original 95% RTP.
High variance slots are known for having lower RTPs compared to low volatility slots. However, if you’re patient and persistent enough, high variance slots can offer great returns in the long run.
Choosing the Right Slot Games
There are different types of players with different preferences and playing styles. For each group, there are specific types of slots recommended for the best experience.
Conservative players who want to protect their bankroll and minimize losses should look for low variance slots. These games offer smaller, but more frequent, wins that help extend your bankroll. A highly recommended low variance slot game is Starburst by NetEnt.
High rollers who bet big in search of the biggest winnings should play high volatility slots. These games may reduce your bankroll quickly, but they also offer massive wins that can balance out the losses. A recommended game for high rollers is Book of Dead by Play’n GO.
For players who enjoy a balance between high and low variance, there are medium variance slots available. These slots provide both bigger wins and more frequent wins. Some top medium variance games include Wolf Hunters by Yggdrasil, Jaguar Temple by Thunderkick, and Gonzo’s Quest by NetEnt.
Choosing Games with Variance and RTP in Mind
Now that you understand variance and RTP, here are some suggestions and tips for choosing and playing slot games at your favorite online casino:
Know the Limits of Each Game
Don’t expect to hit the jackpot in a single session while playing low variance slots. Similarly, high variance slots won’t guarantee a much-needed bankroll boost in just one sitting.
Use the Free Demo
Take advantage of free play slot games to understand how a slot game works. Play a few spins to discover strategies that you can use when playing with real money.
Always play within your budget, regardless of whether you’re playing low or high variance slots. Once you’ve used up your budget, know when to quit and exit the game.
While bonuses and jackpots are important considerations when choosing slots, also pay attention to the variance and RTP of games. The variance tells you the frequency and size of wins you can expect over the long run. Consider your needs and use variance and RTP to choose games to play for real money.
