The biggest mistake casual gamblers make is ignoring the underlying mathematical engine that drives the slot machine.
A machine’s variance tells you whether you are in for a smooth, steady ride or a wild, highly unpredictable rollercoaster.
The Difference Between High and Low Variance
If a machine constantly gives you back half your bet or small profits every few spins, it is a low volatility game.
Conversely, a high volatility slot might not pay out anything for fifty spins, but then suddenly award a massive 1000x multiplier.
- High volatility slots often feature incredibly complex bonus rounds that are very difficult to trigger
- Low volatility games are the absolute best choice if you are trying to clear a casino bonus wagering requirement
- Megaways slots are notoriously high variance, offering thousands of ways to win but long periods of ‘dead spins’
Reading the Paytable to Determine Risk
The fastest way to determine a machine’s behavior is to look at the maximum possible win multiplier.
If the top prize is only 500x your bet, the game is almost certainly a low-to-medium volatility machine.
| Indicator | Low Variance Game | High Variance Game |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Win Potential | Usually under 1000x stake | Can exceed 20,000x stake |
| Bonus Round Frequency | Triggers relatively often | Extremely hard to trigger |
Matching the game’s mathematical profile to your personal bankroll is the secret to a successful casino session.