Low vs. high volatility slots
Slots are one of the most popular casino games, whether brick-and-mortar or online. The simple rules, glittering lights, and exciting graphics continue to make them popular with most casino enthusiasts. However, as simple as it might seem, there are some terms that, when properly understood, can give the player a better hold of their gameplay and, in a way, make the results less of a gamble. In no particular order, these are the volatility, the variance, and the return to player (RTP) percentages. As far as this article is concerned, the focus will be on volatility, but naturally, variance and RTP will need to be mentioned to answer the low or high volatility slot question properly.
What does volatility mean?
The reason millions of players sign up on thousands of online slots, according to gambling expert Nikita Jones, is to take advantage of the bonuses and enjoy rewards and freebies as they go in search of the jackpot. Crucially, volatility is a measure or gauge of how often players are likely to hit the winning combination or jackpot. It is crucial to note that these values are not guarantees but statistical averages. Knowing the volatility of the slots does not mean you will win the jackpot; it simply gives you an idea of how many times you may need to pull the lever before you have your name on the Hall of Fame winner’s wall.
Volatility, Variance, and RTP Relationship
Volatility is often used interchangeably with variance, very commonly and incorrectly. While they are very similar, the two terms do not mean the same thing. Home builders are not the only people who use math; if you are looking to hack slots gaming, you need some math help, and it starts with understanding variance.
Variance is a measure of dispersion; it measures or determines how far from an average mean value a set of numbers can be and also from themselves. In the context of slots, it determines how often the players get paid and how much their winnings are over some time. While variance reflects how payments are distributed over a long period, volatility is used to reflect the dispersion in a finite interval, typically in a 1-to-5 or 1-to-10 scale, still long enough to be definitive but not infinity as in the case of variance.
RTP, or Return to Player, on the other hand, is the percentage of all the bets coming into the casino that will be returned to players in the long run as more players win the jackpot. It is simply whatever is left from all the bets after the casino house edge is deducted, as players get paid in an order determined by the variance and the slot’s volatility. RTP = (average win/average bet) × 100%.
Determining slots volatility
There are multiple ways to determine the slots’ volatility. The easiest is to check the website; it often lists what slots have high or low volatility. If that is missing, you can inspect the payout table. The slot games with high prizes for combinations with the most difficulty are very likely high-volatility slots, while slots with low-paying prizes are very likely low volatility. Another way you can tell is the difference between the highest and lowest prices. If there’s a substantial gap, it is more likely than not to be high volatility and low volatility if otherwise. You could also take a look at the bonuses being offered; if there are additional payouts and other incentives like free spins, chances are you are looking at a high volatility slot.
For more precision, you could observe the slot payout over a long period. This way, you have statistical data to work with, and it allows you to better place the slot game you are playing. However, it can be quite challenging and financially tasking, too; the alternative is to ask other players to share their experiences over an equally long period playing the same slot game. This way, you have even more data and a fraction of the responsibility for recording the spins, which can be in the thousands.
Factors that determine whether to choose low or high-volatility slots
The following are some factors that help decide whether to play low or high-volatility slots:
1. Bankroll size
Players with a larger bankroll will find more rewards by choosing high-volatility slots. Because payouts are long and far between, it will require that players stay in the game as long as possible to increase their chances of winning. Players working with smaller bankrolls will do better with low volatility slots as it gives them a chance to build their purses gradually.
2. Risk tolerance
Assessing your risk tolerance is crucial when choosing between low and high-volatility slots. Low-volatility slots provide frequent, smaller payouts, making them perfect for cautious players who prefer consistent and steady gameplay. In contrast, high-volatility slots appeal to risk-takers willing to endure dry spells in exchange for the potential of larger, more infrequent jackpots. Choose based on your comfort with risk.
3. Gaming goals
Low volatility slots are ideal for players seeking steady, consistent gameplay with smaller, frequent payouts, allowing for longer sessions and minimal balance fluctuations. High volatility slots, however, cater to those chasing substantial wins or jackpots, offering the thrill of bigger rewards but with less frequent payouts, requiring patience and a higher risk tolerance.
4. Playing style
Low volatility slots appeal to casual players seeking frequent, smaller rewards to keep the gameplay engaging and enjoyable over longer sessions. High volatility slots, on the other hand, draw thrill-seekers and competitive players who enjoy the excitement of high-risk gameplay and the potential for substantial payouts, even if wins are less frequent.
5. Available time
For players with limited time, such as those looking to play during work breaks or while enjoying a Yucatan resort break, low-volatility slots are ideal, offering quick, frequent wins to maximize enjoyment in short sessions. On the other hand, players with more free time can opt for high-volatility slots, embracing the thrill of chasing bigger payouts over longer, immersive sessions.
6. Bonus and rewards strategy
Low volatility slots are great for clearing bonus wagering requirements, as their frequent, smaller wins help sustain your balance and make it easier to meet playthrough conditions. High volatility slots, however, are riskier for bonus strategies, as extended losing streaks can quickly exhaust your bonus funds, making it harder to fulfill the required criteria.
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