Have you ever wondered what is a lucky slot machine where you can hit wins and enjoy the game? But wait, how can gamblers define a lucky slot game? Is it a machine that gives jackpots, easy wins or exciting game experience? Here is a simple answer: understand what is RTP on slot machines and how to navigate with volatility to find your lucky slot. In this article, you will learn more about these two factors and understand how you can use this information to score more wins on slot machines.
RTP – Return on player
Return to player is a percentage of all wagered money that a gambling machine is expected to pay out during its lifetime. RTP tells you how much money a slot machine (or any other gambling game) will likely give you back after many spins. In other words, it determines the approximate long-term payout size after many spins.
For instance, if the RTP level is 94%, it means for every $100 bet, the slot will return $94 to players in winnings. The remaining 6% is counted towards the casino revenues or the house edge. The purpose is to ensure both players and casinos get benefits over time.
Players can estimate their RTP level using the simple formula below.
RTP = (Total Payouts / Total Bets) × 100%
Total Payouts = The total amount of money/payout a player won on a slot machine
Total bets = The total amount of a player’s bet on a slot machine
Yet, players must remember that this percentage is only accurate in the long run. So, if you bet $100, you should not expect a $94 payout right away. The 94% represents the payout for millions of spins during the slot’s entire lifecycle.
For example, if a slot machine has an RTP of 96%, it means that over a long period and a large number of bets (e.g., $1,000,000 in total wagers), the machine is expected to pay out approximately $960,000. However, in the short term, individual results can vary, and you might get lucky and win big.
Here is another questions gamblers might have. Who sets this RTP percentage on slot games: casinos, players, government or a third party? Let’s find it out together!
Who determines the RTP level on slot machines?
Slot machines usually come with possible RTP configurations e.g. 92%, 94% or 96%. Casinos can select one of these setting and even update the slot machine RTP rate from time to time.
There are also laws and industry standards that casinos oblige about the RTP level. Usually, the RTP level starts at 80%, and the higher the payout percentage, the better the odds are for players.
Furthermore, there are regulatory bodies that oversee industry compliance of slot games. For instance, the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) states minimum RTP levels for land-based and online casinos. The minimum RTP level for online casinos should be 92% or more, and for physical casinos, it should be at least 85%. These vary from country to country or casinos, yet the purpose is to ensure both players and casinos get benefits.
Yet, RTP does not guarantee that players will win back a specific amount in any session. The RTP levels can vary depending on casinos, games, payout rules or winning odds. Gamblers should remember that RTP is average and does not guarantee a 100% outcome.
While RTP is a helpful metric for finding a lucky slot game, it is only one of the indicators. Players should also consider other factors, such as pay lines, volatility or game-specific features.
Volatility (Variance)
Volatility, the same as variance, measures how risky a slot machine is. It shows frequency and the amount of money a slot is expected to pay out.
Slot machines with low volatility give smaller and more frequent payouts. For example, imagine you are playing on a low volatile slot machine like a penny slot. Your chances of wins are quite high and you can win small prizes and enjoy the experience.
The same way, high-volatility slot games possess immense prizes, so they pay out less often. For example, high-risky games like progressive slots give gamblers an opportunity to win jackpots, which means they will pay out rarely but big.
Volatility number interpretations vary in short and long terms. Below, we present how volatility affects winning odds in slot machines.
High and low variance slot games have their pluses and minuses, choose whichever you like the most and play responsibly. Casino newcomers may start betting on low-volatility machines. This way, they will get familiar with the slot game, which has less risk and more frequent wins. Experienced gamblers can take on high-risk, high-reward opportunities by playing on high-volatility machines.
RTP & Volatility: A Combination of Success
RTP and volatility work together and can help you choose a game that matches your goals and playing style. Smart players check the RTP and volatility of a slot game to ensure it aligns with their strategy. Knowing these does not guarantee a win but helps you play smarter and longer.
How can you use RTP and volatility to your advantage and slot wins? Let’s discuss different cases to understand what is the best slot machine for you to play to win.
| Case | RTP | Volatility | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High RTP, Low Volatility | High (90-98%) | Low | Frequent, smaller wins with a favorable long-term return. | Starters, players on a budget, or those seeking consistent wins with low risk and fun. |
| High RTP, High Volatility | High (90-98%) | High | Infrequent but significant wins, with a favorable long-term return. | Experienced players, risk-takers, or those seeking high risks, high rewards. |
| Low RTP, Low Volatility | Low (75-89%) | Low | Frequent, small payouts but with a lower long-term return percentage. | Beginners or players wanting to maximize fun and minimize losses. |
| Low RTP, High Volatility | Low (75-89%) | High | Rare payouts with very high rewards, but lower average returns overall. | High-stakes players or gamblers chasing massive jackpots, willing to take a high risk. |
Why You Need RTP and Volatility?
Gamblers should know about RTP level since it can help them choose the slot game. It is a simple way to assess your winning chances of a game before you decide to play. If you understand how RTPs work and how to calculate them, you can manage your bets smartly. Besides, volatility is linked to the frequency of wins, riskiness of losing your money and also a a type of slot machine.
So, depending on your skills, budget or goal, you should choose slot machines wisely.
Conclusion
To sum up, what is RTP on slot machines? Return to player is a cumulative percentage of money that a slot will return over its lifetime. A high RTP percentage is beneficial for gamers compared to a lower one. They can expect higher returns on their bets in the long run.
Yet, RTP does not guarantee that players will win back a specific amount in any given session. It is important to note that the RTP number is a long-run indicator.
Volatility, on the other hand, describes the risk of losing money when betting on slots. High variance slots offer bigger but less frequent payouts. Conversely, low variance slots have frequent and small prizes.
RTP and volatility are crucial factors to know before playing on slot machines. Depending on your skills, preferences, and goals, you may choose slots with different volatility and RTP levels. Enhance your knowledge about return to player and volatility to find your lucky slot game!
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