What is volatility?
Volatility describes the risk profile of a game — how frequently it pays and how large those payments tend to be. High volatility means infrequent but potentially large wins. Low volatility means frequent but smaller wins. Medium volatility sits between the two.
High volatility pokies
High volatility pokies can go many spins without a significant win, then pay out a large amount. They suit players with a larger bankroll who can absorb losing streaks while waiting for a big hit. Progressive jackpot pokies are typically high volatility.
Low volatility pokies
Low volatility pokies pay out more frequently but in smaller amounts. They suit players with a smaller bankroll who want longer playing sessions and more consistent returns. The maximum win potential is usually lower than high volatility games.
How to find volatility information
Volatility is not always published as a number. Game developers sometimes describe it as low, medium, or high in the game information. You can also infer it from the paytable — a wide gap between the lowest and highest symbol values suggests higher volatility.
Volatility and bankroll management
Matching volatility to your bankroll is practical risk management. For a NZD 50 session budget, a low volatility game gives more spins and more consistent play. For a NZD 200 budget targeting a large win, a high volatility game may be more appropriate — but be prepared to lose the full amount.