Understanding RTP and Volatility: Key Factors in Online Pokies

Introduction

When it comes to online pokies, two important factors that can affect your gaming experience are Return to Player (RTP) and volatility. These terms help determine how much you can potentially win and how often, shaping your overall experience on the reels. Knowing what these terms mean and how they interact can help you choose the best pokies for your playing style and bankroll. In this article, we’ll dive into what RTP and volatility are, how they influence your pokies sessions, and why they’re important for Australian players.

What Is RTP (Return to Player)?

RTP stands for Return to Player, a percentage that represents the theoretical payout of an online pokie over time. This percentage gives players an idea of how much money they can expect to get back from their wagers, on average, in the long term.

• How RTP Is Calculated: RTP is calculated over millions of spins and reflects the average amount a player can expect to win back from their total bets. For example, if a game has an RTP of 96%, it means that, theoretically, you can expect to win back $96 for every $100 wagered.
• RTP as a Long-Term Metric: It’s important to remember that RTP is a long-term measure. It doesn’t mean that every player will get 96% of their money back in one session. Some players will win big, while others may lose more. RTP simply reflects the long-term payout over many spins.
• How to Find RTP: The RTP of a pokie is usually listed in the game’s paytable or information section. Most online pokies from reputable providers have RTPs of 95% or higher, so it’s worth checking before you play.

What Is Volatility?

Volatility, also known as variance, measures the risk level of a pokie and determines how often you can expect to win and how large those wins will be. Pokies can have high, medium, or low volatility, and each type offers a different experience.

• High Volatility: High volatility pokies offer bigger wins but less frequently. These games are ideal for players who enjoy the thrill of large payouts and are willing to endure long stretches without significant wins. High volatility pokies are best suited for players with a larger bankroll who can handle the risk of longer dry spells in hopes of landing a big win.
  • Example of High Volatility Pokies:
    • Book of Dead (Play’n GO): Known for its big win potential during free spins with expanding symbols, Book of Dead is a high-risk, high-reward game.
    • Dead or Alive 2 (NetEnt): This game offers huge payouts in its bonus rounds, but wins in the base game are rare, making it a high volatility favourite.
• Medium Volatility: Medium volatility pokies strike a balance between frequent small wins and occasional bigger payouts. These games are perfect for players who want a mix of excitement and steady returns. Medium volatility pokies provide a well-rounded experience and are suitable for most players.
  • Example of Medium Volatility Pokies:
    • Gonzo’s Quest (NetEnt): This game combines frequent smaller wins with the chance of hitting big multipliers during the Avalanche feature.
    • Starburst (NetEnt): With expanding wilds and re-spins, Starburst offers steady payouts with the occasional larger win, making it a great choice for medium volatility fans.
• Low Volatility: Low volatility pokies deliver frequent but smaller wins. These games are ideal for players looking for longer, less risky gaming sessions, as your bankroll lasts longer. If you’re a casual player who enjoys smaller but regular payouts, low volatility pokies are the way to go.
  • Example of Low Volatility Pokies:
    • Blood Suckers (NetEnt): A low volatility pokie with a high RTP of 98%, Blood Suckers offers frequent wins, making it a favourite for players who prefer low-risk gameplay.
    • Aloha! Cluster Pays (NetEnt): This fun, low volatility game with cluster payouts offers steady wins and an enjoyable playing experience.

How RTP and Volatility Work Together

RTP and volatility are both important factors in understanding the overall risk and reward of a pokie. While RTP tells you how much you can expect to win back over time, volatility tells you how often and how much you’re likely to win in any given session.

• High RTP and High Volatility: Games with a high RTP and high volatility can offer large payouts, but these payouts are less frequent. These pokies are best suited for players willing to take bigger risks for the chance of higher rewards.
  • Example: Mega Joker (NetEnt) offers an RTP of up to 99%, but its high volatility means you’ll experience longer periods without winning, with the potential for massive payouts when you do.
• High RTP and Low Volatility: Games with a high RTP and low volatility offer steady returns with smaller but more frequent payouts. These games are ideal for players
  • prefer longer, more relaxed gaming sessions with less risk.
• Example: Blood Suckers (NetEnt) has a high RTP of 98% and low volatility, making it a great choice for players looking for frequent wins without major swings in their bankroll.
• Low RTP and High Volatility: These games offer fewer payouts overall, but when you do win, the potential rewards can be massive. Games with low RTP and high volatility are often tied to progressive jackpots, where the lower RTP is offset by the chance to win a life-changing sum.
  • Example: Mega Moolah (Microgaming) has an RTP of 88.12% but offers the chance to win massive progressive jackpots that can reach into the millions.
• Low RTP and Low Volatility: These games may not be the most attractive in terms of long-term returns, but they offer consistent smaller wins. They’re great for players who prefer to play with low stakes and have a steady stream of smaller payouts.
  • Example: Arcader (Thunderkick) offers a low RTP but is designed to pay out frequently, with small, manageable wins.

Choosing the Right Pokie for Your Playing Style

Understanding RTP and volatility can help you choose pokies that suit your playing style and budget. Here are some tips for selecting the right game:

• For Casual Players: If you prefer low-risk gameplay with frequent, smaller wins, look for low volatility pokies with a higher RTP. These games will help you extend your playtime without taking big hits to your bankroll. Games like Starburst or Blood Suckers are ideal.
• For Risk-Takers: If you enjoy chasing big payouts and are willing to handle longer periods of no wins, high volatility pokies are perfect for you. Look for pokies with high RTPs to ensure better long-term returns. Games like Book of Dead or Dead or Alive 2 offer big win potential, though you may need a larger bankroll to ride out the dry spells.
• For Jackpot Hunters: If you’re looking for that one huge win, consider progressive jackpot pokies, which often have lower RTPs but the chance for life-changing payouts. Mega Moolah or Hall of Gods are great options if you’re in it for the thrill of massive jackpots.

Maximizing Your Gameplay with Bonuses

Bonuses can be a great way to increase your chances of winning and extend your playtime. Many online casinos offer welcome bonuses, free spins, and ongoing promotions that can be used on pokies with good RTP and volatility combinations.

• Free Spins: Free spins are commonly offered as part of welcome bonuses or ongoing promotions. Use them on high RTP, low volatility games to maximise your chances of building up your bankroll.
• Deposit Match Bonuses: These bonuses give you extra funds to play with when you make a deposit. This is an excellent opportunity to explore a variety of pokies, including high volatility games, without risking too much of your own money.
• Reload Bonuses and Cashback: Take advantage of reload bonuses and cashback offers to soften losses and keep playing longer. Cashback promotions are particularly useful when playing high volatility pokies, as they can help recover some of your losses during longer dry spells.

Final Thoughts on RTP and Volatility

RTP and volatility are two key factors that every pokie player should consider before choosing a game. While RTP gives you an idea of the long-term payout potential, volatility helps you understand how frequently and how much you might win in a single session.

For Australian players, understanding these concepts can make all the difference between a fun, rewarding gaming experience and a frustrating one. Whether you’re a casual player looking for steady wins or a thrill-seeker chasing big payouts, knowing the balance between RTP and volatility allows you to tailor your play to your preferences and maximize your chances of success.