Slot Volatility

It is this math which determines your experience of the game itself, as well as such key factors as the frequency of potential winnings.

Take volatility, for example - also known as slot variance. By taking some time to study the particular volatility of the slot game you are interested in, you are studying the mathematics which lies underneath it. By doing so, you can learn how the slot works, and how likely it is that you will strike it lucky - thereby preventing you from potentially squandering your hard-earned cash.

Sounds intriguing? Read on to find out more!

Slot Volatility Meaning

The three faces of volatility

As you may already know, there are three main types of volatility, or variance, in online slot games.

Low volatility slots are games which promise more frequent winnings, but in smaller amounts to higher volatility slots. These low but regular payouts allow players to play the game for much longer, while regulating their bank balance. Some low variance slots you may be familiar with include the highly popular Mega Moolah, Thunderstruck II, and Starburst.

Stepping a rung up the ladder, medium volatility slots bring a little more risk, but they also bring higher rewards, as you will receive a mixture of both low and high payouts. This kind of slot is ideal if you are feeling a little brave, but don’t want to tempt fate too much, as they occupy a pleasing middle ground. However, they are still inherently unpredictable, so you should still be prepared for some losses. Medium volatility slots you may know include the likes of Koi Princess and Guns N Roses.

Last but not least, high volatility slots are for high rolling players who like an adrenaline rush. The mathematics behind these slots result in substantial winnings - but much less frequently, and with a lot more risk involved. When you play online slot games with this kind of variance, be prepared for a wild ride, from losing to winning and back again - with an attendant rise and fall in your bank balance. High volatility slots include Book of Dead and Gonzo’s Quest.

There are also 2 further sub-categories of volatility: medium-high variance, and low-medium variance.

How is volatility determined?

The mathematics behind the determination of a slot’s volatility is unsurprisingly complex, and though all slots are rated on an index, this rating can sometimes be hard to come by. To work it out for yourself, it is best to examine the paytable; if payouts are small, the slot is likely to be low variance. If they are high, it is likely to be a high variance game. Similarly, hefty jackpots, max bets, and other prizes are liable to mean a highly volatile slot.

Final Thoughts

Now you have a grasp of the maths underlying slot variance, you can better prepare your game strategy and, hopefully, gain an edge over the ‘house’ - and some decent winnings to go with it.

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