A Beginner’s Guide to Online Slots: RPT, RNG and Volatility
Online slots have the most players of any online casino game. Their flashy graphics and interactive bonus rounds provide endless hours of fun. Despite the complex programming behind each spin, spinning a reel looks like a simple task.
Many beginner players are misinformed about how slots work and think that there are patterns in the game or that a machine becomes “hot” or “cold.” Some players also think that the longer you play a game, the better your chances at winning the jackpot. These players are mistaken because each online slot spin has been designed to be completely independent of the previous spin to maintain and enforce a random outcome.
Roughly knowing what RTP (Return To Player), RNG (Random Number Generator), and volatility means and what factors influence those elements in online slots allows players to have a better understanding of a game. Even though a player’s understanding of the techniques does not influence the outcome of a spin, the player is better able to make a well-informed decision about what types of games they want to play.
I explain how online slot games were created, the technology behind them, and the math concepts that influence their other features.
What Are Online Slots?
Online slots are digitized copies of the traditional slot machines you would find at a casino. Instead of having to pull a lever, players of online slots simply hit the spin button and watch the outcome generated by the computers.
While graphics, audio, and animations have improved in modern slot machines, they are still very mechanically simple games. Random combinations of symbols are displayed for each spin. Payout determination is dependent upon a games paytable.
Games like Poker or Blackjack rely on player decision and thus player skill, whereas games like slot machines are entirely chance based.
A Brief History of Slot Machines
The first slot machines were mechanical and were prevalent in the late 1800s. These machines used gears, springs, and reels to create random combinations.
As society progressed, the machines themselves progressed from mechanical to electromechanical. Payouts and bonus features integrated into these machines could become more complex with the new technology.
The invention of the internet brought about the online game of slot machines, which completely removed mechanical reels from the game. Compared to the new technology, computer software and a certified random number generator were used in place of mechanical reels.
Today’s game developers incorporate countless different concepts. With thousands of different themes from sports to adventure to mythology, there are online slot games for almost everyone.
Basic Components of an Online Slot Game
Although different games have vastly different appearances, most have the same underlying components.
Reels
Reels spin vertically on a game board. Traditionally, slot machines have three reels, but modern video slots are more likely to have five reels or more. Some innovative game developers have strayed from the traditional reels and use six reels, seven reels, or even a grid-based layout.
Symbols
A reel consists of a value-bearing symbol. Each reel can have a different value or the same.
Depending on the game, symbols may include:
- Standard
- High-paying
- Wild
- Scatter
- Bonus
- Multiplier
Each serves a specific purpose in terms of the game’s payout structure.
Paylines
These determine if there is a winning combination for matching symbols.
Slots used to only have one payline.
Many modern online slots contain variabilities in the number of paylines, such as:
- 10
- 20
- 50
- 100
- 243 ways to win
- Megaways-style dynamic layouts
Even with many paylines, the role of chance is still present in determining winning combinations.
Betting Controls
Players typically can control things like:
- Bet size
- Coin value (possibly in some games)
- Number of paylines (if it is an option)
- Auto-spin settings (if available)
Once a bet is made, the spin button initiates an entirely new random event.
What Does That ‘SPIN’ Button Actually Do?
Many players think the outcome is determined by how the reels stop, when in fact it is usually decided at almost the exact moment the spin button is pushed.
In much simpler terms, it typically looks like this:
- The spin button is pressed.
- Random numbers that correspond to the location of each symbol are instantly generated.
- Once these steps are completed, the software displays the selected symbols.
- The results are then confirmed based on the pay table.
- Winning combinations are awarded.
The spinning graphics serve no real purpose other than to entertain the players once the spin has been generated.
Understanding Reels and Symbol Positions
Each reel has potential stopping positions for all the symbols in the game.
Though only three or four may be visible at a time on the player’s screen, each reel has many possible positions.
These positions are selected electronically by the Random Number Generator, rather than physically selected.
This allows developers to create much more complex pay structures compared to traditional slot machines.
Winning Combinations
Every game has a paytable and a betting structure specific to that game.
Wins are awarded when specific combinations of symbols, according to the game’s rules, line up on an active payline.
The rules that award a win vary among games.
They can require matching symbols on adjacent reels, or they can use a system of “ways to win,” where a win is awarded regardless of the payline.
It’s important to read the paytable before starting a game, since each one is different.
Wild Symbols
Wilds can substitute for almost any symbol on that payline, allowing the player to complete a winning combination.
Examples of Wilds include expanding Wilds, sticky Wilds and walking Wilds.
Scatter Symbols
Scatters are unique symbols that can vary the betting structure, engaging a different payline than normal, and pay out a win scattered across the reels.
Scatters can unlock free spins, bonus rounds and/or multipliers.
Some games have Scatters that can activate a pick-and-win game or a special jackpot feature.
Various slot games use completely different Scatter mechanics.
Paytables
Paytables will always be present in every online slot and give information on each symbol’s value, how to win, what bonuses are available, how Wilds behave and where Scatters pay out, how multipliers work, how free spins are triggered and what other special game mechanics a given game may have.
Paytables are usually an essential resource for a game. Each game is constructed to have completely different rules.
What Makes Every Slot Experience Different
While base technologies remain almost the same across all slots, each offers truly unique experiences.
This is due to the various developers bringing their own:
- Themes
- Art styles
- Animation styles
- Sound design
- Reel configurations
- Bonus games
- RTP
- Volatility
- Jackpots
Because of this, different slots can achieve virtually infinite combinations.
What Is RTP (Return to Player)?
When you start learning about online slot games, you’ll notice that RTP stands for return to player, and it’s one of the first things you’ll come across. It’s the percentage that slot games show for the expected return to players over a high number of spins.
For example, a game with a 96% RTP means that for every $100 wagered, the game would return approximately $96 over several million spins, and the remaining $4 is the theoretical amount the game would keep.
It’s necessary to know that the RTP is a long-term calculation. This means that it doesn’t control wagers or outcomes in the short-term. Because spins are by nature random, it’s entirely possible for players to experience huge (for better or worse) results over a short time period.
How RTP Is Calculated
Game designers do the math and testing for RTP and millions (or even billions) of simulations are used to determine the expected return over time.
Testing laboratories ensure that RTP is correct, and that the payouts of games match the RTP that is published when games are released.
Since RTP is based on long-term probability, not short-term results, it should be looked at as a game design feature, not expected outcomes.
Why Do Players Look for Games with Better RTPs?
Casual players will usually opt for games with higher RTP percentages as theoretically, the player will return a greater long-term value.
- 94% RTP means the theoretical house edge is 6%.
- 96% RTP means the theoretical house edge is 4%.
- 97% RTP means the theoretical house edge is 3%.
There are other factors to consider when choosing a slot game besides RTP. These include the game’s bonus features, volatility, gameplay, and entertainment value.
High RTP does not mean the player will win. Random outcomes mean the player can experience long losing streaks.
What Is RNG (Random Number Generator)?
Slot games are unpredictable and fair thanks to Random Number Generator (RNG) technology.
An RNG is an algorithm programmed into a computer that creates numbers randomly.
For as long as the game is available to be played, a RNG continuously makes numbers randomly.
Before the player spins the reels, the software captures the RNG value. Once the player spins, the number captured is used to determine the reels’ outcome.
All of the above happens in a matter of milliseconds.
Day to day, the RNG Technology ensures neither the player nor the casino has an idea what the outcome will be.
Why Every Spin Is Independent
A common myth when playing slot games is whether there is any correlation between the prior number outcomes.
The answer is no, spins are always independent from one another.
This also means:
- A win does not increase the chance of another win.
- Long losing streaks don’t mean a jackpot is coming.
- A long winning streak won’t mean the next jackpot is less possible.
- The RNG will produce a new random outcome after each spin.
- Previous spins won’t affect future spins at all.
That is an important system in modern slot game designs.
How RNG Makes Fair Gameplay
Fairness is one of the main aspects of implementing RNG technology. Without an RNG, outcomes can become predictable and/or manipulatable.
Certified RNG systems ensure that:
- All possible outcomes are defined by their probability.
- Results can’t be predicted by users.
- Outcomes can’t be adjusted by previous spins.
- Every spin is made independently.
Online casinos that hold licenses will commonly use slot games tested and approved by independent certification to make sure the RNG is functioning correctly.
What Is Hit Frequency?
Another concept is hit frequency.
Hit frequency is the likelihood that a slot machine will produce a winning combination, regardless of how big that winning combination may be.
For example, a game with a hit frequency of 30% will, theoretically, produce a winning combination approximately 30 times out of every 100 spins.
20% hit frequency games may produce something of a win less frequently but that win can be a larger payout.
Remember, hit frequency is not related to what is known as RTP.
A game can have:
- A high hit frequency but small wins.
- An infrequent large win.
Neither of those is objectively better, just different.
RTP vs Hit Frequency
Both concepts refer to different aspects of gameplay, although they are often confused.
RTP indicates how much money is expected to be returned by a machine over a hypothetical number of spins, averaged to the millions.
On the other hand, Hit Frequency refers to the average number of winning combinations that appear in a game.
For example, consider two machines with similar RTP. The first machine may award small wins more frequently, while the second machine may limit the number of wins, but may award larger payouts when a win occurs.
Understanding both of these concepts can provide a more complete picture of how a game will behave.
Common Slot Myths vs. Facts
There are numerous myths related to online slot games, many of which have been debunked. Pennsylvanian players can use this knowledge to better understand which strategies to use.
Myth: A Jackpot is “Due”
Fact: Every spin of a slot machine is independent, and therefore cannot be predicted based on the previous outcomes.
Myth: A Casino Can Alter Results During Gameplay
Fact: The outcome of gameplay is governed by a Random Number Generator (RNG). These systems are certified, and the outcomes cannot be altered by the casino.
Myth: Continuous Play Increases The Winning Probability
Fact: Winning future spins will not be impacted based on previous outcomes, as the outcomes are governed by a Random Number Generator.
Myth: The Time of Day Impacts Results
Fact: RNG systems do not consider any external factor of the gameplay, including the time that the game is played, or the number of players concurrently playing the game.
Myth: The Use of Auto Spin Alters the Odds
Fact: Auto Spin utilizes the same Random Number Generator that governs every other aspect of the game.
The Importance of Independent Testing for Fairness
The best slots developers submit their games to independent testing labs before distributing them to licensed casinos.
These companies examine:
- RNG performance
- RTP accuracy
- Statistical fairness
- Software integrity
- Regulatory compliance
Testing helps confirm that the games conform to their published specifications and that the outcomes remain random, as they should, over the long term.
The Role of RTP and RNG
While RTP and RNG won’t tell you the outcome of any single spin, understanding RTP and RNG helps potential players understand the slippery nature of slots gaming.
People should be able to exercise factual gameplay based on:
- Expected long-term results
- Independent outcomes
- Fair gameplay
- Varied styles of play
Knowing the fundamentals will help set expectations for the online gaming experience.
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What Is Slot Volatility?
The term slot volatility, also known as variance, refers to the distribution of payouts in a slot game. Though slot volatility doesn’t affect RTP (Return To Player), it does influence the frequency and size of wins.
It is helpful to think of slot volatility as answering the question:
“How often does this game pay and what is the potential payout size?”
Low slot volatility games are characterized by more frequent, smaller wins. The opposite is true for high slot volatility games where players can expect larger but less frequent wins.
Knowing about volatility aids players in finding games that align with their desired playing experience.
Knowing about the types of volatility and payouts and how they impact slot games, players can tailor their experience to match a particular style of gameplay.
Low Volatility Slots
As the name implies, low volatility slots have small, relatively frequent wins.
Low volatility slots have:
- Relatively consistent payouts
- Smaller average prize sizes
- Less volatile balance changes
- Longer play sessions
These types of games are popular with players who prefer games with a low risk of large but infrequent payouts.
Despite the frequency of smaller wins, the cumulative amount won may be less than the amount wagered.
Medium Volatility Slots
Medium volatility slots sit comfortably between the low and high ends of the payout spectrum.
Players can expect:
- Frequent wins
- Low risk
- Occasional larger payouts
- Good variety in gameplay
There are a large number of video slots that fall into this category as they tend to be popular with players.
Smaller, frequent wins as well as the occasional larger win with a payout bonus are to be anticipated.
High Volatility Slots
High-volatility slots function differently from the rest.
Rather than rewarding smaller wins multiple times, these slot games operate by awarding larger wins with longer intervals.
Some traits of high-volatility slots include:
- Less frequent wins
- High payout potential
- Large balance swings
- More risk involved over shorter game sessions
Because outcomes are based on luck, there is never a guarantee of a large win during any given game session.
RTP vs Volatility
While RTP and volatility are often mistaken for one and the same, they both serve different functions when describing slot games.
RTP indicates the long-term expected payout percentage derived from an estimated figure based on millions of spins.
Volatility, on the other hand, indicates the distribution of those payouts.
Two games with an RTP of 96% can theoretically be identical; however, one game can pay out frequently but in small amounts while the other game of the same RTP pays out in large, infrequent amounts.
Despite having the same long-term payout, both games can differ greatly from one another by experience alone.
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Bonus Features
Modern online slot games boast many exciting bonus features in order to retain the player with greater interactivity and more engaging gameplay.
Bonus features can range from the following:
- Free spins
- Multipliers
- Wild symbols
- Scatter symbols
- Bonus mini-games
- Cascading reels
- Expanding reels
- Mystery symbols
Each unique slot game is entitled to an assortment of these mechanized features.
The rules of each mechanic and bonus feature will vary from game to game, and are always presented in detail in the game’s paytable.
Free Spins
It is no secret that the fan favorite bonus feature of slot games is free spins.
In order to trigger free spins, a player must land a certain number of scatters or activate a bonus feature.
The number of free spins allotted to the player is predetermined as well as the bonus features that may be offered during the free spins round.
- Activation of multipliers is a common occurrence.
- Special symbols may begin appearing more frequently.
The definition of what qualifies a round as a free spin is not the same across games.
Multipliers
A multiplier increases the value of a winning payline.
- 2x multipliers double payouts.
- 3x multipliers triple payouts.
- 5x multipliers quintuple payouts.
While most games tend to limit the usage of multipliers to bonus rounds, some choose to apply them to main game spins.
Multipliers do not change the probability of winning, they will only increase the value of qualifying payouts.
Wild Symbols
Wild symbols breathe life into otherwise dead combinations.
Newer slot titles adopt wild symbols in various forms such as:
- Standard Wilds
- Expanding Wilds
- Sticky Wilds
- Walking Wilds
- Stacked Wilds
- Shifting Wilds
Each will behave according to the rules of the game.
Scatter symbols tend to be game wild symbols regardless of where they land on the given reel.
Scatter Symbol Features
Most of the time, games feature scatter symbols that will activate the following:
- Free spins
- Bonus rounds
- Pick-and-win segments
- Progressive bonus games
- Instant prize segments
The criteria that enable a scatter symbol to activate these segments differ from game to game.
For the full picture of what a scatter symbol can do in a given game, consult the paytable.
Progressive Jackpots
Slots that provide a progressive jackpot draw players in due to the never-ending increase of the prize.
Progressive jackpots are unlike ordinary fixed jackpots in that small portions of qualifying wagers are funneled into the prize.
This trend continues until the jackpot’s size is awarded to a qualifying player.
The jackpot is reset to a base level after each win.
Not all online slots have a progressive jackpot.
Some old fashioned slots require players to spin the reels, but many modern games have replaced spin with cascades.
That means winning symbols are removed and then new symbols fill the empty spaces.
More winnings can be formed with new combinations.
Even cascades can have multipliers attached to them, which increases after each and every cascade.
Some games even have features that allow players to form many winning combinations in a single spin.
A good example of this system is the incredibly popular Megaways game.
Some games can even increase the number of reels and symbols that can be shown on each reel for each spin.
This adds random number generation to the game which keeps it exciting.
All slots have to have a built in probability model, and even with the different game themes, that model is programmed into the game.
A lot of players skip right over the pay tables.
They are actually good sources of game strategy and player tips.
A paytable lists information such as:
- Values for each symbol
- Scatter, Wild and Bonus behaviors
- RTP, if provided
- Rules for Free Spins
- Multipliers
- Rules for bonus features
Knowledge of these rules allows players to understand what features are available and how the different symbols are involved in gameplay.
Online Slot Games
With thousands of online slots, choosing one can overwhelm you. Although no strategy can win you money, you can at least choose a game with features you enjoy.
When choosing a slot game, consider:
- RTP (Return To Player): Always compare RTP percentages if they’re available.
- Volatility: Are you fine with small, frequent wins or do you prefer to play for larger, more infrequent payouts?
- Theme and Design: Pick a game that features a theme or design that entertains you and there are tons of options, such as mythology and fantasy to classic fruit themed games.
- Bonus Features: Enjoy games that have your favorite bonus features such as cascading reels, multipliers, and free spin games.
- Game Developer: Going with a trusted game developer assures that the game has thermoscopic and independent fairness testing.
Knowing these things helps you pick a game you enjoy without playing based on misconceptions of how slots work.
Common Myths About Slots
Slots myths lead to a lot of misunderstanding around the game. Avoiding these myths leads to an enjoyable and informed game play experience.
Thinking a Machine is “Due”
Everyone thinks a slot that hasn’t paid out in a while is more likely to pay out.
This is completely false. Every spin of a machine is independent from the last one because Random Number Generators (RNGs) are used.
Not Checking Paylines
Spinning a game without knowing the paytable is a big error people make a lot of the time.
The paytable contains information on winning combinations, symbol values, how wild and scatter symbols behave, bonus features and rules, free spins, and multipliers. Understanding how the game functions requires a brief review of the paytable.
Confusion with RTP and Guaranteed Returns
One of the most pernicious fallacies in gambling is that a slot game where RTP is set at 96% means that after playing for 100 dollars, the game will pay 96 dollars back. However, this is not the case. RTP is an expected average value from millions of iterations; it will never reflect the returns from a single play session.
Chasing Losses
Fortunately, most gambling fallacies are as pernicious as they are predictable. Because each spin is a totally independent event, the only thing that changes is the number of spins. Each spin will continue to be a potentially winning spin. Gambling will continue to be popular. This is why it is important to set betting limits to help maintain the enjoyability of gambling.
Responsible Gambling Tips
Remember that playing online slot games is solely for entertainment; injurious habits should not be sustained under the delusion that they are beneficial.
It is responsible to gamble within the limits of your budget.
Gambling should never be done under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or when you are upset or stressed.
It is extremely important to understand that gambling outcomes are decided by chance.
Gambling to recover financial loss or seeing gambling as an income source are extremely irresponsible.
This is what gambling is for; it should only be done for fun.
If you feel it is negatively affecting your life, seek help.
This is the point of responsible gambling. It encourages that gambling be done less often so that the enjoyment provided by the game is also sustained.
The Future of Online Slot Games
New technology is changing the online gaming industry rapidly.
Today’s slot games are developing at a rapid pace and are incorporating more complex features such as:
- Better graphics
- Better sounds and voiceovers
- More interactive bonus games
- Optimized for mobile
- Work on multiple devices
- Cloud gaming
- More accessibility options
VR and AR are other advanced options that game developers are starting to use to create more advanced and immersive gaming experiences.
Despite the changes in the presentation of slot games, under the hood, licensed games will always have RTP, RNG, and volatility.
Final Verdict
Understanding the workings of online slot games is the best way to learn about these games and clear some of the myths that are usually associated with these games.
The truth is, every single online licensed slot uses a Random Number Generator (RNG) to create a totally random, and thus an unpredictable, outcome. Return To Player (RTP) creates the theoretical overall payout percentage, and volatility describes how often, and how much, a game pays out over a prolonged period of time.
These concepts help break down the differences behind these games, but do not help a player predict or control the outcome of the games.
There is no betting system that can defeat the inherent random nature of a licensed online slot game.
Playing online slot games is fun, but the best way to play slots is with a healthy, informed approach and understanding the rules.
Conclusion
Online slot games are the perfect combination of mathematics, engineering, and great design.
Gamers may notice and appreciate the bright graphics, animations, and bonus games, however, all of the game’s real mechanics occur behind the scene with a certified Random Number Generator, a correctly calculated RTP, and preset volatility models.
These concepts will help players understand the unpredictability of outcomes and why myths of “hot machines” or “due jackpots” are erroneous.
Each spin is its own event and is completely random and independent of the outcomes of previous spins.
Whether you want to learn about the role of RTP, RNG, and low vs. high volatility in slots, having accurate information enables you to make strategically informed decisions to have fun playing these games with reasonable expectations about what to expect.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is RTP in online slot games?
RTP is the percentage of each dollar wagered that a player can expect to receive back over an extremely large number of spins.
What is an RNG?
An RNG (Random Number Generator) is a computer program that generates outcomes that are both random and unpredictable. Each outcome is independent and is therefore completely unrelated to past outcomes.
Can RTP result in a win?
No, RTP is simply a statistical average over the long run. Unlike with RTP, each outcome may or may not result in a winning outcome.
What does slot volatility mean?
Volatility describes how frequently a slot game pays out and what the typical payout size is.
Are online slot games random?
Online slot game providers use an RNG to generate each spin’s outcome which ensures the game is random and independent from previous spins.
Is a machine “due” to pay out the jackpot?
No, each spin is truly independent and unrelated to the result of previous spins.
What are Wild symbols?
In slot games, Wild symbols can act as regular symbols to help make a winning combination, based on the game’s rules.
What are Scatter symbols?
Unlike regular symbols, Scatter symbols do not need to be on a specific pay line, and they are often used to start bonus or free spin games.
What is a progressive jackpot?
A jackpot will continue to increase until it is won, and it is money that is built through multiple qualified bets.
Does auto-spin change the odds?
The result of a spin is determined by the RNG, and this is the same regardless of whether a spin is done manually or automatically.
Why do different slot games feel different?
This is due to the differences in the bonus features, paylines, RTP and volatility, as well as the graphics and the game’s theme.
Are online slots games tested for fairness?
Licensed games will be tested by a third party to ensure that the game’s RNG and RTP are working as intended.
Can players influence the outcome of a spin?
No. After the spin button is pressed, the RNG will determine the outcome, and this is completely beyond the player’s control.
Before playing a slot game, what should I look for?
Look for a paytable, the volatility, RTP, bonus features, game rules, and anything else you may find helpful.
What’s the best way to approach online slot games?
For entertainment only, know the rules, game limits, and practice responsible gambling.
Author Details:
This is Anil, I am a professional SEO Expert &Write for us technologyblog and submit a guest post on different platforms- technootech provides a good opportunity for content writers to submit guest posts on our website. We frequently highlight and tend to showcase guests.
