Slot machine variability, or volatility, refers to the risk level or unpredictability associated with winning in slot games. A high-volatility game produces larger but less frequent wins, while a low-volatility game offers smaller, more regular payouts.
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In the world of online slot games, one term that often crops up is volatility. Volker Schäfer, a gaming expert, explains what it means and how it can impact your gaming experience.
Volatility refers to how often a slot game pays out and the size of those payouts. High volatility slots offer the biggest potential wins but with fewer payouts, while low volatility slots provide smaller, more regular payouts.
High volatility slots, such as the popular game Book of Dead, can offer big payouts but require a larger bankroll to survive longer losing streaks. On the other hand, low volatility slots like Starburst offer frequent small wins, making them a good choice for longer gaming sessions on a smaller budget.
Medium volatility slots, like Gonzo's Quest and others, strike a balance between risk and reward. They offer a more balanced gaming experience, with wins that are not too infrequent or too small. Medium-high volatility slots still carry a high level of risk but offer wins a bit more frequently than high volatility games.
Low-medium volatility slots provide frequent wins with a chance of the occasional higher payout, offering a happy medium between the two extremes.
Understanding volatility helps set realistic expectations, manage losses, and match the game to your strategy. Adjusting your stake size to match volatility can help manage risk and preserve your balance over longer sessions.
It's important to remember that volatility and RTP (Return to Player) are often confused, but they measure different things. RTP is the theoretical percentage of total stakes a slot is expected to pay back over time, while volatility measures how those payouts are distributed.
When playing slots, it's crucial not to chase losses as volatility means streaks can happen in either direction. Practical tips for managing slot volatility include starting with free demos, setting clear win and loss limits, and mixing volatility levels to balance your gaming sessions.
So, the next time you're choosing a slot game, take a moment to consider its volatility. It could make all the difference to your gaming experience.
