You may not have realized it, but slot machines can use math to help determine the odds it has of certain symbols landing and paying out.
If you’ve ever played the game, you’ll probably know that their fairness is tied to the use of an algorithm: Random Number Generator.
An RNG works as the first part of its name suggests: randomly. With each spin that is made, a numbered sequence is created that is unique and different to what the last spin revealed. This is how games stay fair and how they can’t be tampered with.
You may even know about the return to player (RTP) rate. This is the theoretical percentage that is expressed regarding the returns that can be expected. It’s usually shown as a percentage and can be in the 90s. Games that have an RTP rate of around 96% are around the industry average, but you can find them higher and lower than this.
In basic terms, a slot with a 96% RTP rate means $96 can be expected to be returned out of every $100 wagered. In this instance, the house edge is 4%.
Nonetheless, while this randomized algorithm and the return to player rate are key parts, so is the complexity of a framework that uses math with calculated probabilities.
What’s the Math Behind Online Slots?
The math used in online slots is often behind the symbols available on the game’s paytable. Each of these has been fitted with formulas and basic calculations to determine the probability of a likely payout.
The values that have been set can also have an impact on the volatility level of the game. Volatility plays a crucial role in terms of payout size and frequency. Titles that come equipped with a high rate provide bigger wins, but they are infrequent. Games that have low volatility associated with them can provide frequent wins, but they are usually of a smaller size.
Each of the game’s aspects, whether it includes symbols that can trigger special features and bonuses, will have been integrated into the RTP rate.
How Do You Pick the Best Online Slots?
It’s likely you’ll only want to play the best online slots. It’s only natural to want to do so. Now you have an understanding of how maths can play a role in games that are perceived to be entirely random and based on luck, there are a few things that you should do to make sure you only enjoy positive sessions:
- Pick games that have the highest RTP rate
- Pick games with low-medium volatility
- Play slots that suit your preferences
With thousands upon thousands of options, it can be easy to get distracted or feel overwhelmed. However, it’s important to remember to remain disciplined and the three tips above will help you do this.
By picking games that have the highest RTP rate, you’ll have a greater theoretical chance of seeing wins being returned. Slots aren’t going to pay out big prizes all the time, but those that have a higher rate of return may provide you that winning feeling more often than not.
The same can be achieved when picking games with a low-medium volatility level. These titles have been designed to trigger wins more frequently based on the math that is used. They will be smaller in size, but they will happen more regularly than those that can be obtained from high-volatility games.
Slot gameplay is all about entertainment. It can be something that is forgotten at times. By remembering to pick a game based on your preferences and tastes, it can remain enjoyable for longer than games that don’t.
Maths Plays a Role But Don’t Be Fooled
Slots have various components that help to make them random, but they have been infused with elements of maths. The RTP rate and RNG algorithms used will have aspects of probability, as will the frequency at which the symbols on the paytable appear.
By understanding the math involved and how it determines the odds and payouts that can be received, you’ll have a greater understanding of how slots work and be better positioned to have more positive experiences moving forward.