Some players believe that luck is a chaotic stream of randomness, in which it is impossible to discern patterns. However, in online casinos, each game is subject to a clear mathematics. You can notice that in some slots winnings happen often, but the amounts are small, and in others on the contrary – huge, but it is not easy to get them at all. This is not the caprice of a random number, but a pattern embedded in the code of the machine.
What is variance in slots? This is a hidden characteristic of each slot machine, determining exactly how it distributes winnings. The indicator explains why some games “rash” prizes, and others require patience. Having understood the dispersion, you can learn to choose the right slot machines and manage your bankroll more consciously.
The hidden maths of winning
Frequent small wins or rare large skids – in this matter, players are divided into two camps. Some believe that the main thing is to keep the balance and play longer. Others are looking for a chance to make a fortune without fear of high risks. All this is not just luck or chance. The variance of slot machines is an indicator that implicitly affects the results of each gaming session.
The term is actively used in mathematics and statistics, but in slot machines it has a special meaning. Simply put, the variance (or volatility) determines how often and what amounts will pay out the machine. It explains why one slot gives out frequent, but small winnings, and another can long “eat” the balance, but then suddenly throw a huge amount.
In online casinos you can find different types of machines: some are created for a long measured game, others – for those who are ready to risk for large sums. And this factor cannot be ignored.
Volatility is a synonym of dispersion or it is not
These two terms are often confused among players, but they are not complete synonyms. Slots volatility is a characteristic that describes the level of risk associated with the game. To be more precise, variance is a mathematical term, while volatility is a more applied, gaming term.
Low volatility machines are those where wins are frequent but in small amounts. In such games, the player can hold the balance longer, receiving stable payments.
With high volatility, you can play for a long time without significant wins, but with a lucky break you can get a large sum. Such machines are suitable for those who play on a distance and are ready to wait for a big payout.
The choice between these types depends on the player’s strategy: those who prefer a long game with small stakes, machines with low volatility are suitable. And those who want to risk for maximum winnings – with high.
How to choose a slot by variance index
Players pay attention to the theme and bonus features, but do not take into account the level of variance. This indicator can significantly affect the strategy of the game.
How to determine the variance of the slot:
- Look at the frequency of wins in demo mode. If the machine often gives out payouts, but small – this is low variance. If they are rare, but large – high;
- evaluate the size of payouts. In slot machines with high dispersion you can see huge multipliers (x1000 and higher). It gives out mostly x2-x5 – belongs to the low category;
- read the official specifications. Some providers specify the level of dispersion in the description of slots.
What slot machine to choose
If the bankroll is limited, it is better to choose machines with low dispersion to stretch the balance and increase the chances of a long game.
If you want to take a risk for a big score, you should pay attention to slots with high variance.
High variance slots are a risky but potentially lucrative gamble
High variance slots are not forgiving of mistakes. Here you can easily lose everything, if you do not take into account the strategy of bet management. It is in such games that huge multipliers happen.
How do slots with high variance differ from the rest? They rarely produce winning combinations, if they do, the payout amount can be huge. The games are suitable for patient players who are willing to wait a long time for big profits.
Examples of popular slots with high variance:
- Dead or Alive 2 (NetEnt) – minimal wins in the main game, but colossal payouts in the bonus.
- Bonanza (Big Time Gaming) – complex gameplay but high multipliers.
Low variance – stability or boredom?
Not all players are ready to wait for a big win. Those who prefer to receive stable payouts and do not take risks, it is better to choose slots with low variance. They give frequent wins, allowing you to stay in the game longer. The main advantage of the machines is that they are suitable for long gaming sessions. At the same time, you should not count on gigantic payouts.
Examples of popular slots with low variance:
- Starburst (NetEnt) – frequent wins, but small.
- Blood Suckers (NetEnt) – high RTP, minimal risk.
Slot machines with jackpot and variance
Ordinary slots offer fixed payouts, but slot machines with jackpot and variance give you the opportunity to win a really big sum. Progressive jackpots, such as Mega Moolah or Arabian Nights, work on the principle of accumulation: part of the bets of all players is added to the total fund. In such slots, the variance is always high, as the main winnings are received only by those who hit the jackpot.
How to play jackpot machines correctly:
- calculate your bankroll. High variance requires a reserve of money;
- choose slots with a progressive jackpot, which has not fallen out for a long time.
Conclusion
Many players focus on bonus features and colourful design, but what is the variance in slots is a key parameter that determines the game strategy and chances of winning. It affects the frequency of payouts, their size and the level of risk.
The main conclusions:
- dispersion in machines can be low, medium and high – each level corresponds to its own tactics;
- games with high variance give rare but large payouts;
- low-dispersion games allow you to play longer due to frequent but small payouts;
- slot machines with jackpot and dispersion – high risk with minimal chance of a huge prize.
Understanding what is the variance in slots helps to choose the appropriate strategy, control the bankroll and increase the chances of a successful game.
Single-line slots, as opposed to multi-line slots, are classic slot machines where it is only possible to win in one way. In these games, only one winning combination can be obtained on a single line, which usually runs through the centre of the screen. In most cases, it is horizontal and located at the same level as the reels. For example, if three identical icons land on the centre line, the player gets a win.
Multi-line slots are modern games that offer players many more winning opportunities than their single-line counterparts. These machines open up new horizons for those looking for excitement, variety and high winning chances. By learning the mechanics, you can enhance your experience and play successfully at online casinos.
Apparatuses with a high volatility indicator attract those who are ready to take risks for the opportunity to get large prize money. Sessions may not bring winnings for a long time, but when it happens, the amount will be impressive. Example: Book of Dead – here patience is rewarded generously. The volatility of the slot in this case – the determining factor, and the player should be ready for long sessions without tangible payouts.
Slots volatility is one of the key indicators to consider before starting a session. At the same time, it is important to remember that neither this indicator, nor the RTP value does not give a hundred per cent guarantee of winning, because there are many other things that affect the course of the game.