While Return to Player (RTP) is important, another metric called 'volatility' dictates exactly how your gaming session will feel.
Volatility, or variance, determines the risk level of the game, indicating how often and how much the machine pays out.
High Volatility vs. Low Volatility Explained
Low variance games are perfect for players who want to relax and play for hours without losing their money quickly.
High variance games are incredibly risky; they will drain your budget rapidly, but offer the chance for life-changing payouts.
- High volatility slots often feature incredibly complex bonus rounds that are very difficult to trigger
- Low volatility games are the absolute best choice if you are trying to clear a casino bonus wagering requirement
- Megaways slots are notoriously high variance, offering thousands of ways to win but long periods of 'dead spins'
How to Identify a Slot's Volatility
If the game provider does not explicitly state the volatility, you can figure it out by studying the game's paytable.
Furthermore, if the lowest-paying symbols don't even cover the cost of your spin, the machine is highly volatile.
| Indicator | Low Variance Game | High Variance Game |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Win Potential | Usually under 1000x stake | Can exceed 20,000x stake |
| Bonus Round Frequency | Triggers relatively often | Extremely hard to trigger |
Matching the game's mathematical profile to your personal bankroll is the secret to a successful casino session.
