The biggest mistake casual gamblers make is ignoring the underlying mathematical engine that drives the slot machine.

Volatility, or variance, determines the risk level of the game, indicating how often and how much the machine pays out.

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

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

If a game advertises a maximum win of 10,000x or 50,000x your stake, it is undeniably a high volatility slot.

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