What Is Slot Volatility?
No matter whether they’re online or played at land-based casinos, slot games are a popular form of entertainment for many people. But not all slot machines in online casinos are made equal. The level of volatility in slot games is a key differentiator.
What exactly is slot volatility, then? Simply put, it’s the level of risk connected with a specific slot game. It establishes how often and how much a casino player may expect to win. Volatility is closely tied to the return-to-player rate (RTP).
High volatility slots feature less frequent winning combinations but offer higher prize money. On the other hand, low-volatility games offer regular small wins with fewer paylines.
Volatility is a critical component that impacts the chances of winning a jackpot, the amount of the reward, and all other risks associated with the game.
Levels of Slot Variance
As there are different types of slot games, there are also three primary levels of slot variance—high, medium, and low. However, for seasoned casino players, slot variance comes in five levels in online casinos. Each level has unique features and is suitable for different players.
- High-variance slots
What does high volatility mean in slots? It means that they’re the riskiest but offer the biggest payouts. The winning combinations in high-variance slots are rare, but they can be significant when they happen. As a result, high-variance slots are perfect for casino players with a bigger bankroll who aren’t afraid of risks
- Medium-high volatility slot machines
They’re closer to the high variance group regarding the frequency of winning combinations and payout value. These slots are designed for high rollers who enjoy some small wins and don’t mind taking risks.
- Medium variance slot machines
They’re the sweet spot between high and low-variance slot games. Casino players who enjoy this type of slot volatility are willing to take some risks but wait to exhaust their bankroll. As a result, these games are marked by regular small wins and occasional mid-sized winning combinations.
- Medium-low volatility slot games
They have a higher hit frequency than medium variance slots, which equates to lower risk. These slots pay out more small wins, but the big winning combinations are less often.
- Low variance slots
They offer smaller but more frequent payouts. These games suit newbie casino players who enjoy the game more than the risks involved. With a small investment, players can enjoy playing for a few hours at a time.
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RTP vs. Variance
Regarding playing slot games, players should differentiate two critical metrics—volatility and return-to-player (RTP).
While volatility describes the risks of losing your money, it also determines how much you can win during the play. It can be frequent small wins or a “once-in-a-hundred-spins” big money. On the other hand, RTP is a predetermined percentage value set by the gaming operators that refers to the total amount of bets that are returned to players in the form of winnings over a long-term period.
Regardless of whether a slot game is programmed to give frequent small wins or a few large combinations, in the end, it will still return a percentage of the total bets to the casino player, typically ranging from 93% to 98%. It’s important to note that volatility and RTP are not directly related. For example, a slot game can have high volatility but still offer a high RTP rate, or vice versa.
What Slot Variance Level Is Best Fit for Me?
The volatility level determines the level of excitement in the games you play. Depending on your playing style, you can choose the one that best suits you.
High-volatility games are recommended for those with a larger bankroll, as they offer better odds despite showing up less frequently. Conversely, low-volatility games are preferable for casino players with a lower bankroll and more free time.
Although many players enjoy high-volatility games because they provide a significant long-term cashout, it’s possible to run out of money completely. On the other hand, low-volatility slots let casino players place a bigger bet with the money they have on hand.
To choose the right slot for you, mixing and combining low- and high-volatility games for a few spins is a good idea. However, there are also some helpful slot machine facts every casino player should know.
The Most Popular High Volatility Slots in 2023
Try some most played games in 2023 if you like high volatility slot machines. These slots come with significant prizes, making them tempting to thrill seekers and risk takers worldwide.
In addition, check out the complete guide on how to play slot machines before trying them.
Gems Bonanza
One of the most popular high volatility slots is Gems Bonanza by Pragmatic Play. This gem-themed game features an 8×8 cluster reels layout and offers a variety of bonus features, including spin modifiers and a Gold Fever Progressive feature.
With a maximum payout of x10,000 your stake and an RTP of 96.51%, Gems Bonanza is a great choice to play if you’re looking for an exciting and potentially lucrative gaming experience in an online casino.
The Dog House Megaways
Another top pick for high volatility online slots is the Dog House Megaways. This slot machine features six reels, up to seven rows, and an impressive 117,649 paylines.
With a maximum payout of 12,305 times the stake, this game offers casino players a chance to win big.
The high volatility and exciting gameplay make the Dog House Megaways a must for those seeking an adrenaline-fueled gaming experience.
Drago – Jewel of Fortune
This game, developed by Pragmatic Play, features 5 reels and a massive 1,600 ways to win. With the potential to win up to 48,000x your bet and a multiplier feature that can boost wins to an insane 10,000x your stake, Drago Jewel of Fortune is not for the faint of heart.
If you play and land a full screen of 22 purple dragons, you can win up to 5,000x your bet. The game has an RTP of 96.5% and a high variance rating, making it perfect for casino players who want to take up the challenge.
Book of Dead
Developed by Play’n GO, Book of Dead is one of the best high-volatility slots that has become a staple in many online casinos. With an Ancient Egypt theme, the game features five reels and ten pay lines. Casino players can win up to 5,000x their bet by matching 5 of the top value Rich Wilde symbols during the bonus free spins.
The game also offers a 250,000 coin jackpot, which adds to the excitement. With an RTP of 96.21% and a high variance, Book of Dead is perfect for casino players who want to take on a thrilling adventure hoping to land a big payout.
Jammin’ Jars
Jammin’ Jars, created by Push Gaming, is a fun and exciting high volatility slot that offers a maximum win of 20,000x your stake. The game is cluster-based and features wild multipliers, walking wilds, and colossal symbols for an intense gaming experience.
The game gives casino players a fair opportunity to win mainly because of its RTP of 96.8%. However, because of the extreme volatility of the game, participants should be prepared for both massive risks and huge winnings.
Jammin’ Jars is a fantastic option for anyone looking to play high volatility slots, meaning you’ll have fascinating features and significant potential prizes.
Pros & Cons
For gamers who prefer taking risks and pursuing significant wins, high-volatility slots provide a fascinating gaming experience. Yet, they also have their fair share of perks and drawbacks.
Pros:
- High volatility slots typically offer the highest jackpots, with the potential to win seven or eight figures.
- Although these games often have higher payout percentages than low-volatility slots, casino players may eventually be able to increase their winnings.
- Slots with high volatility are best suited for players with bigger bankrolls who can afford to take risks.
Cons:
- Frequent losing streaks on highly volatile slots in online casinos may be frustrating and demoralizing for some casino players.
- A lot of these games might be challenging to play for a long time and make managing your bankroll tough.
- For some gamers, the intense gaming experience in online casinos might be too much, leading to tension and anxiety.
Conclusion
While high-volatility slots offer the potential for significant payouts, they also come with the risk of losing substantial amounts of money. In addition, the best high volatility slots to play in 2023 are Drago Jewel of Fortune, Book of Dead, Gems Bonanza, The Dog House Megaways, and Jammin’ Jars.
FAQ
What is the most volatile slot?
One of the most volatile slots is Buffalo Slot.
Which slot machines are highly volatile?
Some highly volatile slot machines are Gems Bonanza, The Dog House Megaways, Drago- Jewel of Fortune, Book of Dead, and Jammin’ Jars.
High volatility slots vs. low volatility slots, what’s the difference?
A slot machine with high volatility often delivers big prizes over time, while a slot machine with low volatility provides small wins rapidly.
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