Simply put, volatility is how often an online slot machine wins. Volatility is the factor often overlooked by players. Yet, it is one of the biggest things in the game in terms of winnings or losses on virtual slots.
In fact, all of the slots available online (such as in physical casinos) all have a separate volatility rate setup. It is this which will mainly define (besides luck and chance, of course) the frequency as well as the size of the sums that the player will obtain. In other words, the level of volatility of the game allows the bettor to win several small wins but much more often to pocket a large sum at once or to obtain medium wins at medium intervals.
Slot Volatility: The Different Levels to Remember
The different volatility rates of online slots fall into three distinct categories.
- High Volatility
Slot machines with high volatility are the ones that provide the most adrenaline and excitement in online casino games. This type of volatility allows you, in effect, to play a dozen times without winning anything at all, and it will sure make you go crazy. A word of advice: stick with it, because all of a sudden you can land a big sum that will totally change your life. You will have the opportunity to test the experience with Netent (Dead or Alive) and NextGen (300 Shields) slots. Alternatively, try Gonzo’s Quest, Merlin’s Millions or even Creature From the Black Lagoon.
- Average Volatility
The average volatility rate is the most widely used of all slot machine publishers. With this type of volatility, you will often win small amounts. Admittedly, the gaming sessions are much longer, but the gains to be obtained are certain. Medium volatility slots are primarily intended for players who come to casinos just for the fun of playing and being in the mood without wasting too much money. If you are among them, you will be able to launch, for example, the slots of Netent (Dracula) and Microgaming (Doctor Love).
- Low Volatility
Low volatility slots allow you to play longer sessions without winning big, but without losing too much money either. This type of volatility, therefore, pays small gains regularly. It is ideal for players who fulfill their contract with online casinos, welcome bonus wagering requirements, and other reload bonuses. If you fancy trying the experience, play online slots like Disco Spins, Immortal Romance, Megadeth and South Park. You can also have fun at Rage to Riches from Play’N GO or Jungle Books and Ozwins Jackpot from Yggdrasil.
How to Spot the Volatility of an Online Slot Machine?
The level of volatility of online slots is generally not communicated by game developers, unlike the payout rate. If you cannot find the information easily, then you should consult the payment table and carefully read the contents of the latter. Once on the page, you will surely notice that slot machines with high volatility are slot machines offering payouts greater than 10,000 coins for the most valuable icons of the game. On the other hand, slots with little volatility do not offer more than 5,000 coins, regardless of the winning symbols. As for the medium volatility slots, they offer a maximum payout of between 5,000 and 10,000 coins.
High or Low Volatility Slot Machine: What to Prefer?
Are you hesitating between a high and low volatility slot machine? Check your budget first, then your player profile. If you think the games that offer more thrill and the jackpot are the most exciting, then go for the high volatility slots. Be careful, though, because this categorization of volatility requires a certain amount of money and, of course, high risk. If all of these conditions are right for you, highly volatile slot machines are for you. They allow you to hit a bigger jackpot in one fell swoop.
Do you just want to have fun, but without wasting too much money? Choose low volatility slot machines. These don’t require you to take big risks, and they’ll keep you from spending too much money on an online slot machine.
The Influence of the Volatility Rate on Earnings
In fact, the volatility rate of a slot machine is easily recognizable from the frequency of the winnings offered by the game. A slot machine pays out (rather large) wins irregularly to your account? This means that it is configured for high volatility. Contrary to this, if the machine pays (modest) earnings on a regular basis into your account, it is simply not very volatile. Otherwise, you can always choose the slots between low and high volatility, as they represent an excellent compromise.
It is very important to remember here that the level of volatility of slot machines offered online (and even in land-based casinos) is set by slot machine publishers. If your gambling session ever fails, the casino operator cannot help you, as they have no power or control over the game’s volatility.