RTP and volatility in jackpot machines
In jackpot slots, the result of the game depends not only on chance, but also on the built-in mathematical parameters. The key ones are RTP (Return to Player) and volatility (volatility). These metrics determine how often a player can expect to win and what size they will be. To understand the strategy of the game and choose the right machine, it is important to take into account both parameters.
1. What is RTP
RTP (Return to Player) is the theoretical return percentage to the long distance player.
For example, an RTP of 95% means that out of 1000 AUD bets, players collectively receive 950 AUD back in winnings.
RTP is calculated based on millions of spins and shows long-term return, but does not guarantee a result for a particular player.
2. RTP in jackpot machines
In jackpot slots, RTP is usually lower than in standard games. This is due to the fact that part of the bets goes into the prize fund.
Progressive jackpots can reduce RTP to 88-94%, while in regular slots the figure is more often 95-97%.
Part of RTP is "frozen" in the jackpot and is returned only to those who win a large prize.
3. What is volatility
Volatility determines the level of risk in a game.
Low volatility: Winnings are frequent, but small.
Average volatility: Balance between the frequency and size of winnings.
High volatility: Rare but large payouts, including jackpots
4. Jackpot slot volatility
Most jackpot machines are highly volatile.
This is due to the fact that the main interest is rare, but huge winnings.
Additional features (freespins, respins, bonus rounds) create intermediate payouts to keep players interested.
5. Relationship between RTP and volatility
RTP shows the total "return" and volatility shows the distribution of that return over time.
Two machines with the same RTP can be felt differently:
6. Examples for Australian players
Mega Moolah (Microgaming): RTP around 88. 12%, high volatility, rare but record jackpots.
Divine Fortune (NetEnt): RTP ~96. 6%, medium-high volatility, more frequent intermediate wins.
Buffalo Jackpot (Aristocrat): Focused on high volatility with rare but significant payouts.
7. What the player should consider
If the goal is a long session with frequent payouts, it is better to choose slots with higher RTP and average volatility.
If hunting for a big kush is the goal, progressive jackpot machines with high volatility are the priority.
Both approaches are popular in Australia: beginners are more likely to choose stable slots, and high rollers are betting on risk for the sake of a million.
Result
RTP and volatility are two key parameters that determine the dynamics of the game and the level of risk in jackpot machines. Understanding these metrics helps players consciously choose slots and build strategy, whether it's frequent small winnings or a rare but potentially record-breaking amount.
1. What is RTP
RTP (Return to Player) is the theoretical return percentage to the long distance player.
For example, an RTP of 95% means that out of 1000 AUD bets, players collectively receive 950 AUD back in winnings.
RTP is calculated based on millions of spins and shows long-term return, but does not guarantee a result for a particular player.
2. RTP in jackpot machines
In jackpot slots, RTP is usually lower than in standard games. This is due to the fact that part of the bets goes into the prize fund.
Progressive jackpots can reduce RTP to 88-94%, while in regular slots the figure is more often 95-97%.
Part of RTP is "frozen" in the jackpot and is returned only to those who win a large prize.
3. What is volatility
Volatility determines the level of risk in a game.
Low volatility: Winnings are frequent, but small.
Average volatility: Balance between the frequency and size of winnings.
High volatility: Rare but large payouts, including jackpots
4. Jackpot slot volatility
Most jackpot machines are highly volatile.
This is due to the fact that the main interest is rare, but huge winnings.
Additional features (freespins, respins, bonus rounds) create intermediate payouts to keep players interested.
5. Relationship between RTP and volatility
RTP shows the total "return" and volatility shows the distribution of that return over time.
Two machines with the same RTP can be felt differently:
- a low-volatility slot will produce small winnings more often;
- slot with high volatility - keep the player without payments longer, but give large sums with luck.
- In jackpot slots, the high risk is justified by the fact that the winnings can exceed millions of dollars.
6. Examples for Australian players
Mega Moolah (Microgaming): RTP around 88. 12%, high volatility, rare but record jackpots.
Divine Fortune (NetEnt): RTP ~96. 6%, medium-high volatility, more frequent intermediate wins.
Buffalo Jackpot (Aristocrat): Focused on high volatility with rare but significant payouts.
7. What the player should consider
If the goal is a long session with frequent payouts, it is better to choose slots with higher RTP and average volatility.
If hunting for a big kush is the goal, progressive jackpot machines with high volatility are the priority.
Both approaches are popular in Australia: beginners are more likely to choose stable slots, and high rollers are betting on risk for the sake of a million.
Result
RTP and volatility are two key parameters that determine the dynamics of the game and the level of risk in jackpot machines. Understanding these metrics helps players consciously choose slots and build strategy, whether it's frequent small winnings or a rare but potentially record-breaking amount.
