It can be frustrating when you've been playing for some time and haven't experienced the wins you expected.
Casino games can offer very different playing experiences. Understanding volatility, randomness and RTP can help explain why one game or session may feel very different from another.
Understanding game volatility
Volatility describes how wins may be distributed during gameplay.
Lower volatility | Higher volatility |
Smaller wins | Wins can potentially be larger |
Wins may happen more frequently | Wins may happen less often |
A steadier gameplay experience | A less predictable gameplay experience |
Different games can therefore feel very different, even when they're both operating fairly.
Understanding volatility can help you choose games that better match the type of gameplay you're looking for.
What does RTP mean?
RTP stands for Return to Player.
It is the theoretical percentage that describes the amount a game is designed to return as prizes, on average, across a very large number of game rounds.
RTP is not the same as your probability or chance of winning, and it doesn't predict what will happen during an individual session.
The important things to remember about RTP
RTP is calculated across a very large number of game rounds.
Your own results may be above or below the theoretical RTP.
RTP doesn't determine the outcome of your next spin.
Playing for longer doesn't guarantee that your results will reach the advertised RTP or that you'll win back previous losses.
Note: RTP is a long-term theoretical percentage, it isn't a guarantee of what will happen during an individual gaming session.
Where can I find RTP and volatility information?
You can usually find a game’s RTP within its game information. Depending on the game, this may appear under Rules, Game Info, Help, How to Play or Paytable.
Some games also show information about their volatility, although this is not displayed consistently across every game or provider.
The wording and location may vary, so check the game’s information or help section for the details available.
Example: In some games, RTP and volatility are shown together within the game rules or information section.
How are game outcomes decided?
Games use Random Number Generator (RNG) technology to determine outcomes.
Each game round is generated independently. This means:
Previous results don't influence future results.
Each spin is separate from the one before it.
Your account, deposit history or previous gameplay doesn't influence game outcomes.
In simple terms, a run of losing spins doesn't mean that a winning spin is now due, and previous wins don't reduce the chance of a future win.
What about bonus and feature rounds?
Bonus rounds and other game features are also determined by the mechanics and randomness of the game.
This means:
Features may trigger several times within a short period.
You may play for longer without triggering one.
One session may feel very different from another.
Previous rounds don't determine when the next feature will occur.
How is game fairness ensured?
Games available on our site operate according to their published rules and are subject to independent testing and regulatory requirements.
This includes:
Random Number Generator (RNG) testing.
Checks that games operate as intended.
Independent fairness testing.
Reviews by organisations such as eCOGRA.
These checks help ensure that games operate fairly and that outcomes are random.
Getting the most out of your gameplay
Different games are designed to offer different playing experiences.
When choosing a game, it can help to consider:
Its volatility.
The type of features it offers.
Whether you prefer smaller, more frequent wins or less frequent, potentially larger wins.
The type of gameplay experience you're looking for.
Understanding these differences can help you choose games that better match your expectations.
Gaming should remain enjoyable.
If you're becoming frustrated with your gameplay or find yourself chasing losses, there are tools available to help you manage your play, including limits, breaks and other Safer Gambling options available on your account.