A slot machine’s volatility, also referred to as slot variance, indicates how frequently it will hit a winning combination and the average payout size you can expect. It’s one of the most important aspects of any slot game, and this guide aims to provide a thorough explanation of what volatility means in slots. We’ll also explore the connection between volatility and other key aspects of video slots and provide advice on how to spot different types of volatility in slot games.
Why Is Volatility Important for Slot Games?
Whether you’re a player who prefers building your balance gradually or looking for a big jackpot, it’s important to understand the slot’s characteristics, different types, and other aspects we’ve discussed to choose the video slot that’s right for you.
Now that you have a clear understanding of what volatility means in slots, you’re better equipped to pick the games most suitable to your style and personality.
Slot Volatility in a Nutshell
Essentially, slot machine volatility is a measure of risk associated with playing a particular slot game. This risk factor is reflected in how often and how much a slot machine pays out.
So, what’s the frequency and size of payouts in low-volatility vs. high-volatility slots? High-volatility machines tend to offer larger payouts, but less often, while low-volatility machines tend to offer smaller payouts more frequently. However, any slot machine can go on a streak of either wins or losses and can pay out both small and large prizes, regardless of the volatility level.
In the following section, we’ll discuss various types of volatility you might encounter.
Different Types of Slot Machine Volatility
Typically, slot machines are categorized into five different levels of volatility to help you understand the ebb and flow of playing them. Let’s see what each level means for your experience at an online casino.
High Volatility
High-volatility slot machines are becoming increasingly popular and are attracting a growing number of players. Renowned game developers, such as Push Gaming, Blueprint Gaming, Pragmatic Play, Hacksaw Gaming, and Nolimit City have produced slots with extremely high levels of volatility.
However, high-volatility slots often face criticism for their low rate of wins. It’s not uncommon for someone to spin the reels numerous times without getting a single payout. Even if you do win, the prize might be lower than the initial bet.
It’s important to remember that the RTP of high-volatility slots is calculated over billions of simulated spins. Therefore, if you’re looking to manage your spending and take your time while playing, these games are not the best option, as they can lead to large losses in a short period of time due to their unpredictable nature.
Medium-High Volatility
Slot games characterized by a medium to high volatility level are amongst the most popular choices. These machines strike a balance by providing large payouts and a higher frequency of wins, making them more similar to high-variance slots than those with medium volatility. Playing these slots can be more enjoyable as you may experience more frequent winning sessions.
Medium Volatility
Most modern video slots typically fall into two categories based on the risk factor—low and high volatility. However, there’s a category that offers a balance between the two, which is known as a medium variance. Medium volatility slots provide moderately frequent wins and a fair potential for sizable payouts.
Those who are looking for a fun gambling experience while also having the potential to win large amounts should choose games that have a medium level of volatility. This balance makes medium variance slots a popular choice for a wide range of players.
Low-Medium Volatility
Slot machines with low to medium volatility are a safer bet than those with higher volatility, as the payouts are smaller but more frequent. Nevertheless, these games can still be a lot of fun. If you manage your bankroll wisely, you can get your money’s worth in playtime.
Remember, as volatility increases, so does the risk. That means it’s crucial to understand the volatility of a slot game before playing to ensure that you stay within your budget and risk tolerance. Therefore, low-medium volatility slots are perfect for players who prefer safer gameplay with a balanced risk-reward ratio.
Low Volatility
So, what does low volatility mean? When playing low-variance video slots, you’ll experience more frequent but smaller wins. The maximum payout for these machines is usually between 200 and 500 times the initial wager, which is significantly lower than the potential winnings of higher variance slots. As a result, these machines may not be as appealing to those chasing bigger payouts.
One of the main advantages of playing low-volatility slot machines is that you won’t have to wait long between winning combinations. Also, these games are much gentler on your bankroll.
On the other hand, low-variance slots rarely offer large wins, which can be disappointing if you’re hoping to make a lot of money. Nonetheless, they still offer a fair opportunity to win smaller amounts more regularly.
Examples of Low- and High-Volatility Slots
Some titles stand the test of time, whether they are low or high volatility. Next, we provide a short list of slot titles that you can play for free, whichever volatility you prefer playing.
You can calculate the volatility of a slot machine if you know the odds or value of each symbol combination and the frequency with which it appears. However, to accurately determine the volatility, you must solve a series of complex mathematical equations.
Most slot machines are assigned a volatility index that tells players how risky the game is. Although software providers often keep detailed volatility data private, players can gain insights into the game’s unpredictability based on this index. The PAR (Program Accounting Report) sheets contain the calculations for the ratings on video slots.
As a player, it’s important to be aware of certain factors to determine how risky the slot machine you want to play is. This knowledge is especially useful when exploring the best slot sites, where a wide variety of games with different volatility levels are available.
These include the following:
It’s typical for slot machines to have a paytable that displays the volatility of the machine. When the reward for four of a kind is lower than the payout for five of a kind, this is an indication of a high level of volatility. That means that the payout will be between 10 and 15 times more for five symbols than for four symbols.
Slot machines are said to have a medium to low level of volatility when the payout for getting 3, 4, and 5 of a kind varies between 3 and 5 times.
Another way to assess the volatility of a slot game is to look into how the developer awards wins. The size of payouts, jackpots, and cash prizes can be a sign of how unpredictable the game is.
Discover what the highest betting limit is. Even though these machines can potentially give out huge jackpots, the maximum stakes on high-volatility slot machines are usually quite low.
Trying out the demo version is a great way to gain an understanding of the slot game’s randomness.
The Relationship Between Volatility and RTP in Slot Machines
Understanding a slot machine’s volatility and its return to player (RTP) ratio is key to assessing its overall quality. But what does RTP mean in slots? For example, the slot machine advertises an RTP of 95%. For every $100 wagered, the player can expect to receive $95 in winnings. Such RTP levels are common in games with both high and moderate volatility.
However, it’s important to note that neither RTP nor volatility offers any guarantees. Even if a slot machine has a 95% RTP, there’s still a chance that you’ll lose your entire investment or win the progressive jackpot, which could be worth millions. Higher RTP machines often have lower volatility than lower RTP machines because players have a better chance of winning more frequently when playing them. Games with a high degree of variance in their payouts tend to have a lower rate of return for players.
Play’n GO and Pragmatic Play, two of the most popular game providers, allow casinos to customize the RTP percentages of their games. This enables casinos to find the best option that will suit their players.
Mastering the art of surrendering in blackjack is a crucial component of any player's strategy. By knowing when to surrender, you can significantly reduce losses and enhance your overall gains. However, the key lies in understanding the precise moments when this tactic is most beneficial. In this article, we'll look at the concept of surrendering in blackjack and explain the situations when it makes sense to do it to increase your chances of winning.
The Basics of Surrendering
So, what does surrender mean in blackjack? Well, surrender allows you to fold and lose only half of the initial bet. This option is available after the initial deal but before any additional cards are drawn. Opting for surrender means you concede defeat, forfeiting the opportunity to win that round while mitigating a potentially bigger loss.
However, it's important to note that not all casinos or blackjack variations offer this option. Still, when it is available, it can be a valuable asset in your strategy. The decision to surrender is typically based on the strength of the dealer's up-card and the player's hand.
The blackjack surrender strategy suggests that if a player has a weak hand and the dealer's up-card is a 9, 10, or an ace, it may be beneficial to surrender. In such scenarios, the dealer is more likely to have a strong hand, possibly even a natural blackjack, diminishing your chances of winning with a weaker hand.
By surrendering strategically, you can minimize losses when the odds are not in your favor and conserve your resources for rounds where your hand is stronger and more likely to win. Ultimately, understanding when to surrender in blackjack can be an important component of a player's overall strategy, which will, in turn, help them make more calculated decisions at the table.
Early Surrender
Early surrender in blackjack, while not commonly offered in most casinos, is a strategic choice that allows players to fold before the dealer checks for blackjack. This option enables you to lose only half of your bet, irrespective of whether the dealer has a natural blackjack. This means that you can save money in situations where you have a weak hand, and the dealer's up-card is a strong card like a 10 or an ace.
For example, if you have a hard 16 against a dealer's 10 up-card, you're likely to lose the hand since this is a difficult position for every player. In this case, opting for early surrender to mitigate your losses is a wise decision. This choice is often more favorable than risking the entire wager.
Early surrender may seem like a logical move, but it's vital to keep in mind that it's not always the best option. There are situations where it's more advantageous to play out the hand, hoping to improve it with additional cards. Early surrender is not a one-size-fits-all solution but a tactical tool to be used judiciously.
Late Surrender
Late surrender in blackjack allows you to surrender a hand and lose only half of your original bet after the dealer checks for blackjack. Typically, it's a more common option than early surrender.
Similar to early surrender, the decision to opt for late surrender should be based on the strength of your hand versus the dealer's up-card. For example, if you have a hard 16 and the dealer's face-up card is a 9, 10, or an ace, surrendering the hand might be a good option to cut losses in half. It's important to keep in mind, however, that not all surrender options are the same. Let's take the hard 16 again as an example, but the dealer's face-up card is a 7 or 8. In that case, it's a better option to continue playing because there's a greater chance for the dealer to go bust.
As you can see, there's no foolproof recipe. This strategy requires careful consideration of each situation and the cards.
Check for Blackjack Surrender Rules
It's important to keep in mind that not all casinos offer surrender as an option. Even if they do, there might be restrictions and variations. For instance, some casinos may offer only early surrender, which can be done only before the dealer checks for blackjack. This option can be particularly advantageous in situations where the player anticipates a strong dealer's hand.
Others may offer only late surrender, which can be done only after the dealer checks for blackjack. Late surrender is more common and often considered a more conservative approach, as it allows players to assess the dealer's initial hand strength before making a decision.
Most casinos accept hand signals for surrendering. To indicate that you want to surrender, place your cards on the table and use your index finger to draw a horizontal line. That will signal to the dealer that you want to surrender your hand.
In addition, some casinos may restrict the use of surrender to specific blackjack types and tables, while others may limit the number of times a player can surrender during a single game. This restriction is often based on the house rules or the betting limits of the table. High-stakes tables, for instance, might have different surrender options compared to lower-stakes games. Furthermore, when you play blackjack online, some tables don't offer this option.
Therefore, it's recommended to check the rules and regulations with the casino you're interested in before you start playing. This can involve checking the casino's website, consulting with the dealer or a floor manager, or reading the rules at a particular blackjack table.
To Surrender or Not to Surrender in Blackjack
Early and late surrender can be important components of a blackjack strategy. However, mastering blackjack requires a holistic approach that encompasses various aspects of the game. Generally, early surrender is often seen as a more advantageous option compared to late surrender. This is because a blackjack game that includes early surrender tends to have a lower house edge, offering a slight advantage to the player.
Still, many experienced gamblers advise against surrendering in blackjack, claiming that it's better to focus on developing a solid strategy. The rationale is that while surrendering can be a useful tool in specific situations, relying on it heavily can detract from the development of other important skills and strategies in blackjack.
Therefore, it's important to view surrendering as a strategic choice rather than a habitual fallback. It should be an informed decision made in the context of each hand, considering the strength of your hand, the dealer's up-card, and the overall flow of the game.
Politics and betting might seem worlds apart, but they're more entangled than you'd think. In this article, we'll get into how political events shape the odds, trends, and opportunities in sports and political betting markets. From historical context to modern intricacies, we uncover a relationship worth betting on.
Brief Overview of the First Betting Markets
Before we can dissect how politics influence betting markets, we’ll walk you through some of the very first bets ever placed, and how betting grew throughout the ages.
From laying bets on papal elections in the cobblestone streets of 16th-century Rome to 19th-century Wall Street traders wagering on presidential contests, betting markets have a rich and varied history. These early incarnations were not just whims of the crowd; they were, in many cases, the precursors to the sophisticated markets we see today.
By the 20th century, the theoretical framework provided by economists like Friedrich Hayek and Ludwig von Mises added intellectual heft to prediction markets. This paved the way for the Iowa Electronic Markets in 1988, transforming these markets from clandestine activities to subjects of academic study.
Decentralized platforms like Augur have ushered in the latest chapter, expanding access through blockchain technology.
Intriguingly, betting on papal elections was already described as "an old custom" as far back as 1503, underscoring the deep historical roots of prediction markets.
Now that we have a better understanding of how and where it all started, let’s take a closer look at the relationship between politics and betting markets, after which we’ll discuss the main factors that influence betting markets.How Politics Shape the Betting World
In a world where political climates can change as rapidly as the weather, betting markets are uniquely influenced. From sports arenas to campaign trails, the impact of political events is far-reaching, altering odds and outcomes on betting platforms across the spectrum. Here's how political events cast their long shadows on both sports and political betting:
The Intersection of Politics and Sports Betting
Political events often have unexpected ripple effects in the world of sports betting. Be it new regulations or international politics, these events can dramatically alter the landscape.
Regulatory shifts: Government decisions to regulate or deregulate sports betting can open or close entire markets, affecting the kind of bets you can place and who can place them.
International politics: Let's say the diplomatic relations between two countries sour just before a major international sports event like the Olympics or the FIFA World Cup. This political shift could impact team morale, public perception, and ultimately, the odds themselves.
Platforms for Political Betting
When it comes to casting your predictive net over the sea of political outcomes, certain platforms have become household names. For instance, PredictIt and the now-defunct Intrade offer(ed) robust markets for political wagering.
PredictIt: A hub for policy wonks and political enthusiasts, PredictIt allows you to buy and sell shares based on the likelihood of political events, from election outcomes to legislative actions.
Intrade: While it shut down in 2013, Intrade was a trailblazer in this space, particularly famous for its engagement during the 2008 and 2012 US Presidential Elections.
Political Events and Their Impact on Political Betting Odds
In the realm of political betting, stakes are high and odds are ever-changing, often swayed by the latest headlines and happenings.
Election announcements: The moment a high-profile candidate announces their run, odds for that election can swing dramatically.
Political scandals: Scandals or unexpected news can plummet a frontrunner’s odds in a heartbeat, while boosting the underdogs.
By understanding how political events mold the betting landscape, you not only become a more informed citizen but also a potentially more successful bettor.
Betting Markets and the Factors That Shape Them
In the ecosystem of betting markets, several elements come into play that can make or break the odds. No, we're not talking about just intuition or gut feeling here. Market dynamics are influenced by a blend of sentiment, regulations, economic principles, information imbalances, tech advancements, and even cultural beliefs. Here's how:
Sentiment: The collective mood can shift rapidly, influenced by anything from breaking news to social media buzz.
Regulatory changes: Laws can be game-changers. Legalizing sports betting in a state, for instance, will likely cause a ripple effect across the market.
Supply and demand: Basic economic principles apply here too. A flood of bets on one outcome can skew the odds, luring latecomers to the opposite bet.
Information asymmetry: Those in the know can shift the odds, especially in sectors like horse racing where insider info is invaluable.
Technology: Big data and machine learning are refining predictions, offering insights that can tip the scales in favor of certain outcomes.
Social and cultural influences: Never underestimate the power of collective psychology or cultural superstitions—like betting on "lucky" numbers or favored horse names.
The Bottom Line on How Politics Alter the Betting Field
From legislation changes that make or break markets to international politics that can rattle the odds on the sports field, the political arena is a powerhouse of influence. Platforms like PredictIt have even turned political outcomes into a market of their own, embodying the very essence of how deeply interlinked politics and betting can be.
So, when someone says politics and betting are worlds apart, you can confidently argue otherwise. In a sense, they're more like distant cousins, influencing each other in ways both overt and subtle. Intrigued to see where they go next? Well, that might just be a good subject for a future bet.
Sic bo is a fast-paced dice game that originated in ancient China. The literal translation of the name is "precious dice." The game is also known as tai sai, dai siu, big and small, or hi-lo, and it's played with three dice. It's a popular casino game in Asia, particularly in Macau and Hong Kong. Chinese immigrants brought sic bo to the United States in the early 20th century, and it quickly became a staple in American casinos.
Sic Bo Rules
Before you start playing sic bo, set a budget for yourself. Place your chips on the squares on the table according to the combinations you think will appear on the dice. Each variety has a chance of being rolled, and participants should use this knowledge to make informed bets.
A dealer will pay your winnings if the dice comes up according to one or more of your bets. If the dice don't land in your favor, the dealer will collect the losses, and the whole process starts over again.
This is a straightforward game where players bet on the outcome of three dice rolled by the dealer. When playing sic bo online, players can access a range of bet types, including betting on the total of the three dice, specific numbers or combinations of numbers, and even the sum of the dice being odd or even. You can play free online versions to gain a better understanding of the following payout associated with different bet types.
Bet Types in Sic Bo
The first group of bets entails those with a 48.61% probability and a 1:1 payout. These four bets exclude all types of triples:
Big - The dice sum falls between 11 and 17
Small - The sum falls between 4 and 10
Odd - The sum is an odd number
Even - The dice sum is an even number
Specific 'Triples' or 'Alls' refer to a particular bet where a player wagers that all three dice will land on a specific number. The odds and payouts for specific triples vary on the location of sic box casinos and go from 150:1 to 215:1, but a 0.46% chance of winning stays the same. Similarly, to win specific doubles bets, you need a number to appear on at least two of the three dice, but a 7.41% probability incurs payouts ranging from 8:1 to 25:2.
You need the three dice to land on the same number to win Any Triple or All' Alls'. This bet type, three single-number combinations, and three-dice total bets come with a 2.8% chance of winning and a payout of 30:1.
Lastly, you can engage in betting with these types:
Two dice combinations show a specific combination of two numbers, with a 13.9% probability of winning and a payout of 6:1.
A single dice bet is placed on a specific number from 1–6 to appear on one, two, or all three dice, with varying probabilities and payouts.
Four number combinations, where three of the four numbers must appear on the three dice, with an 11.1% probability of winning and a 7:1 payout.
Specific double and single number combinations entail two of a kind and a different third number, with a 1.4% probability of winning and a payout of 50:1 or 60:1, depending on the casino.
Beat the Odds with Proper Sic Bo Strategy
Players can always make informed decisions based on the probability of each available bet. If you're new to the game and want to know how to play sic bo and win, here are some strategies to keep in mind:
Stick to safe bets: The small, big, even, or odd bets have the highest probability of winning money, making them the safest ones in sic bo. While the payouts for such bets may be lower, they offer a higher chance of winning.
Consider the odds and the house edge: The odds and payout for each bet can vary from casino to casino. Find the casino with the best odds and lowest house edge.
Avoid high-risk bets: Avoid placing bets with low odds of winning, as this will quickly deplete your bankroll.
Use a betting strategy: Some participants prefer a betting strategy, such as the Martingale system. While systems can work, it can also be risky and lead to significant losses at first implementation.
Sic Bo’s Unique Variations
Sic bo has a few variations to play in casinos online, including Grand Hazard, a game of English origin played with three dice. It involves rolling the dice down a chute with inclined planes to tumble the dice unpredictably. The objective is to get three-of-a-kind, also known as "raffles," which pay out 18:1.
Another variant is Chuck-a-luck, known as sweat cloth, churckerluck, or birdcage, originating in Grand Hazard. In this version, the three dice are kept in a wire cage that pivots at its center and is rotated by the dealer, with single-number wagers and occasional triple wagers with odds of 30:1.
Roll to Victory with These Sic Bo Tips
Even though we are talking mostly about a game of chance, you need to understand how to adjust your approach to sic bo online versions. Adapting will help you make informed betting choices and increase your likelihood of success. Embrace the safe bets for consistent, albeit smaller, wins, and always be mindful of the odds and house edge. High-risk bets might seem tempting with their large payouts, but they come with low odds of winning. If you decide to use a betting strategy, proceed with caution and understand the risks involved.
There is a particular type of loan that casinos give out called gambling markers. For people who are comfortable making payments on time, markers can be the right option. Depending on the casino where you get your markers, their ins and outs are different, but we'll review them in general.
What Is a Marker in Gambling?
A marker is a short-term, interest-free line of credit that a casino offers its customers in the form of a loan. Typically, you will be expected to repay the loan fairly quickly, and most Vegas casinos will increase the time limit for repaying the loan only marginally for larger markers. It is a loan with special rules designed specifically for gambling use. However, this isn't a loan since, from a legal perspective, you've already "written the check" for repayment, and the casino is simply waiting for you to cash it in.
How Do I Get a Gambling Marker?
It's possible to apply for a marker by speaking with the people in charge at a casino. Sometimes, only the pit boss or host is responsible for applying for and receiving gambling markers. On other occasions, the entire office is dedicated to dealing with the markers.
There's no doubt that credit is important, but employment and bank statements are far more important. When the casino approves the loan, you will receive cash, but you may also receive a casino card or chips for your payout.
What Can a Casino Gambling Marker Be Used For?
In theory, a casino marker should only be used for gambling, but some people have used casino lines of credit to make payments and purchases. It acts as a fast cash service since it has 0% interest and is easy to get.
But don't be quick to decide on a gambling marker just yet; it can be a bad idea due to the tight repayment policies. It's impossible to file for bankruptcy in the case of unpaid casino markers, so don't consider it if you don't have a repayment plan. In Las Vegas, Nevada, for instance, you will be facing criminal charges if you fail to pay a casino marker, so be cautious.
What Happens If I Don't Pay Back My Gambling Marker?
When the 30-day deadline for paying back the casino marker passes, the casino will submit the marker to your bank account. Casinos will send you a certified letter if it’s not paid due to insufficient funds. You then have 10 days to pay the money back.
Upon expiration of the 10-day deadline, the casino will file a complaint with a district attorney. After that, the casino will no longer be involved with the case, and any subsequent dealings will be with the district attorney, not with the casino.
A certified letter from the district attorney will give you another 10 days to pay back the debt plus 10% of the mark's value in processing fees. An arrest warrant will be issued if the 10-day deadline passes without paying your marker.
At this point, you are subject to arrest at any time. Typically, this occurs during a traffic stop or border crossing. However, a police officer can also search your home or office.
If you're out of state, you can be extradited to Nevada to face criminal charges. if you live out of state. That process is usually long, and it's common to spend a month in custody before being transported back to Nevada.
What Is the Penalty for Not Paying Back Casino Markers?
Nevada considers defaulting on a casino marker worth less than $1,200 a misdemeanor. This sentence includes the following:
Prison for up to 6 months
Fines of up to $1,000
Defaulting on a casino marker worth $1,200 or more is a category D felony. Penalties include:
Nevada State Prison for 1–4 years;
The restitution of the outstanding casino debt;
Each marker of $10,000 or less will be charged an additional 5% fee;
Markers over $10,000 will be charged an additional 10% fee;
Fines of $5,000 at the judge's discretion.
Each unpaid casino marker is prosecuted separately by the district attorney. Furthermore, casinos can also bring civil lawsuits against you if you fail to pay the amounts you owe.
How Do I Fight the Charges?
The problem is that Nevada law presumes that you had the intention to defraud. In other words, it doesn't matter whether you had sufficient funds in your bank account when you took out the loan and intended to repay it.
It may still be possible for a Las Vegas casino marker lawyer to prove that you had no fraudulent intentions. The following circumstances may be helpful for your defense:
There has been a long-standing relationship between you and the casino, so the current situation is unusual.
You couldn't repay the markers on time because you were seriously ill or in the hospital.
You were intoxicated when you received markers, so you weren't thinking clearly when you took out the loan.
Bank records indicate you had sufficient funds at the time you took out the markers
Arguments that Vegas casino laws create a debtors' prison or that markers are not checks are not valid, as confirmed by the Supreme Court of Nevada.
What Is the Potential Profit from a Gambling Marker?
You will likely be offered a marker of $5,000 based on your credit score, employment history, and past due payments within the last 12 months. As a reward for those with high credit scores or proof of high income, gambling markers go up to $100,000 and over.
FAQ
Can I get a gambling marker from an online casino?
Typically, you won't find traditional markers online. It's possible to find fully online gambling markers at some casinos, but they aren't necessarily from online casinos; they could be online applications for physical casinos.
How hard is it to get a casino marker?
A casino marker is obtained by completing an application that allows a casino to verify the applicant's ability to repay the debt incurred. When approved, the Vegas casino issues a requested amount, which the gambler can redeem for chips or cash.
Is there interest in casino markers?
The casino treats casino markers as zero-interest loans, expecting players to redeem them within 30 days.
What does it mean when a casino gives you a marker?
A casino marker is a line of credit provided to a player by a casino. Essentially, it is a short-term loan extended to the player for the purpose of gambling. The player is expected to pay back within a certain time frame.
How do you get a marker in casino?
Players must fill out an application and provide personal and financial information. The casino will then evaluate the player's creditworthiness and determine the amount of the marker. Players must sign a contract agreeing to repay gambling markers within the specified time frame.
February 28, 2023
