While Return to Player (RTP) is important, another metric called 'volatility' dictates exactly how your gaming session will feel.

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.

High variance games are incredibly risky; they will drain your budget rapidly, but offer the chance for life-changing payouts.

• 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'

How to Identify a Slot's Volatility

You can become an expert at spotting high-risk games simply by looking at the payout structure before you spin.

If the top prize is only 500x your bet, the game is almost certainly a low-to-medium volatility machine.

Matching the game's mathematical profile to your personal bankroll is the secret to a successful casino session.