In the world of online slots, games typically fall into two camps – high-volatility and low-volatility variants. High volatility slots are characterized by less frequent but much larger wins. Meanwhile, low volatility slots offer more modest but more consistent payouts over time. Of late, low-volatility slot titles have surged in popularity among fans of online casino games.
Math Behind Low Volatility Slots
At its core, the function of any slot machine – online or land-based – is centered around math. And when it comes to low volatility slots, the math has been crafted to enable more frequent but smaller wins. While the overall return-to-player (RTP) percentage of low and high-volatility games remains roughly the same, the distribution of payouts on platforms like Lucky Ones Casino is what really differs.
Take for example two theoretical slot games, both with a 95% RTP:
| Game A (High Volatility) | Game B (Low Volatility) |
| Pays $100 once every 500 spins | Pays $10 once every 50 spins |
While both games will theoretically pay back 95 cents for every dollar wagered over an infinite number of spins, Game B will see a user win much more often in a typical session. This helps fuel the impression among players that low-volatility slots pay out more frequently.
Clever Game Design and Presentation
Beyond the math, game designers also utilize various techniques to enhance the perception of frequent payouts:
- Multi-line slots – Most modern video slots allow you to bet on multiple lines at once. This provides more opportunities to hit winning combinations with every spin.
- Smaller bets, smaller wins – To enable higher hit frequency for modest bets, payouts are reduced proportionately. This creates the impression of regular small wins.
- Engaging graphics/sound – From celebratory music to slot themes, the audiovisual flair attached to every win triggers the same kind of dopamine response as a large jackpot might.
- Bonus features/free spins – Features like cascading reels and locked wilds allow game designers to extend plays and enable more wins without additional betting.
Games filled with exciting sights and sounds keep players engaged. And the regular occurrence of even tiny payouts provides confirmation that you are indeed winning. This one-two punch goes a long way towards fueling continued play.
Understanding Slot Psychology
Beneath the bells and whistles, slots are ultimately designed to make you want to keep playing. And several psychological principles are at work driving the appeal of low volatility slots in particular:
- The illusion of control – Low volatility slots encourage the feeling that wins are always just around the corner, leading players to think they’re closer to that major jackpot score than speculated odds might suggest.
- Variable reward system – Like email or social media notifications, the unpredictability of slot payouts compels us to keep pulling the lever or pushing the button over and over.
- Losses disguised as wins – Thanks to multi-line bets, players can experience the rush of “winning” even as they slowly lose money over time. This further fuels continued play.
While high-volatility slots rely more on the slim possibility of a life-changing jackpot to drive play, low-volatility games utilize more understated psychology to keep players engaged for extended periods.
Who Plays Low Volatility Slots?
If you prefer games promising smaller but more consistent payouts, low-volatility slots may be a better match for your temperament and bankroll size. Newer players also often gravitate towards these games, as extended playing sessions help them ease into casino games.
Regardless of experience level, low volatility slots compel continued play through clever game design and psychological tricks. Their subtle – but powerful – allure looks set to capture the attention of slot fans for years to come.