Have you ever wondered why your balance disappears instantly on some slots, while on others it lasts for hours? The answer lies in two mathematical concepts: RTP (Return to Player) and Volatility (Variance).
Our Slot Simulator allows you to test these mechanics without risking a cent. Run a simulation of 100, 500, or 1000 spins and watch the graph draw your potential bankroll journey.
How to Use the Slot Simulator
This tool mimics the Random Number Generator (RNG) of a real slot machine. Here is how to set it up:
- Start Balance & Bet: Enter your budget (e.g., $1,000) and your bet size per spin (e.g., $1).
- RTP (%): This is the “theoretical” payout. The industry standard is around 96.0%.
- Note: Even with 99% RTP, you will lose money in the long run. RTP is calculated over millions of spins.
- Volatility: Choose the “personality” of the slot:
- Low: Frequent small wins. Your balance curve will be smooth and decline slowly (e.g., Starburst).
- Medium: A balance between risk and reward (e.g., Gonzo’s Quest).
- High: Rare but massive wins. Expect long losing streaks followed by sharp spikes (e.g., Book of Dead, Sweet Bonanza).
- Spins: Use the slider to choose how many spins to simulate.
Example: High vs. Low Volatility
Try running the simulation twice with these settings to see the difference:
Scenario A: The “Grinder” (Low Volatility)
Set Volatility to Low. You will likely see a graph that gently slopes downwards. You get plenty of small wins to keep you playing, but you rarely end up with a huge profit. This is typical for “entertainment” slots.
Scenario B: The “Jackpot Hunter” (High Volatility)
Set Volatility to High. The graph will look like a jagged mountain range. You might see your balance drop by 30-40% quickly, and then suddenly shoot up vertically (a big win). This represents the high-risk, high-reward nature of modern volatile slots.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is RTP in slots?
RTP stands for “Return to Player”. It is the percentage of all wagered money that a slot machine will pay back to players over time. For example, a 96% RTP means that for every $100 bet, the machine keeps $4 and returns $96 (on average, over millions of spins).
Why did I lose money if the simulation says I won?
This tool is a simulator based on probability. Just like in a real casino, every time you press “Run Simulation”, the result will be different. This is called Variance. Try running it 10 times—you will likely see 6-7 losses and 3-4 wins.
Does bet size affect RTP?
Generally, no. The math remains the same whether you bet $0.10 or $100. However, betting larger amounts increases your volatility in dollar terms—you can win (or lose) a fortune much faster.