Many players often overlook variance when selecting an online casino game; however, it is a crucial aspect of casino gaming. This metric provides significant insights into the payout patterns of the game, making it beneficial to understand it in advance.
Variance, commonly referred to as volatility, represents a statistical measure. It is determined by analyzing the outcomes of millions of games. A game characterized by low volatility tends to provide smaller prizes with a higher frequency, whereas a high volatility game is associated with larger payouts, albeit less frequently.
Understanding this information enables players to make informed decisions regarding their gaming choices, taking into account their available budget, time constraints, and the level of risk they are willing to undertake.
To gain a thorough understanding of an online game's payout dynamics, it is essential to also consider the Return to Player (RTP). The RTP indicates the proportion of the total money wagered that is statistically returned to players over the long term. Both variance and RTP are complementary metrics and do not influence one another.
For the reassurance of players, the outcomes of all casino games are generated using a random number generator (RNG). This mechanism guarantees that, within the parameters set by the developer (variance and RTP), the results of each game or spin are determined by chance.
Online Slots players should carefully consider variance when selecting an online game title. While factors such as theme, maximum payout, and special features often guide their choices, variance is an important aspect that should not be overlooked.
Low volatility slots cater to players who wish to play with a smaller budget and enjoy more frequent, albeit smaller, wins. These games are particularly appealing to those who prefer shorter gaming sessions.
Conversely, high volatility slots attract players who are willing to take greater risks by investing larger sums of money in pursuit of substantial rewards. Although these slots may require more spins to yield a profit, the potential for significant payouts makes the wait worthwhile.
Additionally, medium variance slots offer a compromise between low and high volatility, making them suitable for players who enjoy a balanced gaming experience.