How to Choose Slot Games: Volatility, RTP & Bonus Features Explained

So many reels. So many sparkly symbols. So many games shouting “Pick me! Pick me!” If you’ve ever opened a slot lobby and felt like you were staring into a neon-lit multiverse of mayhem, congrats — you’re not alone. Choosing the right slot game can feel like trying to order from a 40-page diner menu. Everything looks good. Everything might give you indigestion. But only some dishes are truly worth it. That’s why we’re here to decode the chaos.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to choose slot games based on three powerful ingredients: volatility, RTP, and bonus features. We’ll also spill the beans on what type of player should go for what — so you don’t just spin, you win (or at least know why you didn’t). Let’s roll!

What Is Slot Volatility? (aka: How Much Chaos Can You Handle?)

Let’s start with slot volatility explained in real-human terms. Volatility is basically the game’s risk level — how often you win and how big those wins tend to be. It’s like the slot game’s personality. Some are slow and steady; others are wild, unpredictable, and possibly drunk on multipliers.

Low Volatility

These are the chill types. Frequent wins, but smaller payouts. Great if you like a steady stream of action and hate seeing your balance dip like a rollercoaster. Good for: beginners, cautious players, and people who scream internally when they go 10 spins with nothing.

Medium Volatility

These games walk the line between excitement and comfort. They can serve up decent wins without the nail-biting droughts. Good for: most players who want the chance of a big hit but still enjoy seeing wins regularly.

High Volatility

These games are not here to make friends. Wins are rare, but when they come, they could shake the reels off the screen. You’ll need patience (and maybe snacks). Good for: adrenaline junkies, high rollers, and anyone who treats their balance like a rollercoaster pass.

RTP in Slots: The Percentage That Predicts the Pain (or Pleasure)

Next up: RTP in slots, which stands for Return to Player. It’s the percentage of wagered money a game is expected to pay back over time. Think of it as a long-term relationship stat – not perfect, but helpful.

For example, a slot with a 96% RTP means that over many spins, it’s expected to return $96 for every $100 wagered. Spoiler: You won’t feel this in one session. It’s more like slot karma over time.

What’s a “Good” RTP?

When it comes to RTP, not all percentages are created equal. Below 94%? That’s rough territory — like trying to win a race in flip-flops. Between 94% and 96% is decent and pretty standard, especially on older or high-volatility games. It won’t make you dance in your chair, but it won’t wreck your bankroll either. The sweet spot? 96% to 98% — this is where you’re getting solid value for your spins with a much friendlier return over time. And anything above 98%? That’s unicorn territory. Rare. Magical. The kind of game you brag about in group chats. Play it. Love it. Tell your friends. Maybe even name your next pet after it.

That said, a high RTP won’t save you from a brutal dry spell on a high-volatility slot. It just improves the odds over time. So, use it as a guide – not a promise.

Bonus Features: Where the Fun (and Sometimes Fortune) Lives

Let’s talk best slots for bonuses — because let’s be honest, we all perk up when a game flashes “BONUS ROUND TRIGGERED.”

Bonus features vary wildly across games, but they’re the parts that offer extra entertainment, extra chances to win, and occasionally, full-blown confetti-worthy payouts.

Common Bonus Features to Look For

When you’re learning how to choose slot games, bonus features can be a make-or-break factor. Some players want sleek, fast-paced base games. Others are only here for that sweet Free Spins Feature with a possible x10 multiplier. Here’s a breakdown of common bonus features:

• Free Spins: The classics. Often retriggerable. Sometimes, they come with multipliers or expanding wilds. Always a good time.
• Pick ‘Em Games: You choose between mystery prizes. Like a game show, but with less clapping.
• Cascading/Sliding Reels: Winning symbols explode and make room for new ones. More bang for your spin.
• Multipliers: These can show up randomly or during bonuses. When x5 appears, hearts race.
• Wild Features: Sticky wilds, expanding wilds, walking wilds — if it’s wild, it’s usually wonderful.

Match Your Slot to Your Mood (Or Your Budget)

So, how do you actually use all this info when choosing a game? If you’re feeling lucky and reckless: Go for high volatility, with a modest RTP, and juicy bonus rounds. Think: Big risk, big thrills.

On the other hand, if you’re here for a long time, not a wild time: Stick with low to medium volatility and a high RTP. Choose games with frequent smaller bonuses. Your balance will thank you.

Lastly, if you’re a bonus hunter: Find the best slots for bonuses — games that list multiple features, have retriggerable free spins, and wild modifiers. These games keep the excitement coming, even if the wins aren’t always massive.

Bonus Tip: Always Check the Info Panel

Before you spin, hit that little ⓘ button or paytable icon. It will tell you:

RTP, Volatility level (sometimes), Bonus rules, Max payouts.  Yes, it feels nerdy. And, it’s totally worth it. Nothing’s worse than realizing you’ve been playing a jackpot game with your bet set too low to qualify. (It’s happened. Don’t ask.)

Final Thoughts: How to Choose Slot Games

The slot world is wild, but it’s not random chaos. Once you understand slot volatility, recognize a solid RTP, and seek out the best slots for bonuses, you’re no longer just spinning for fun – you’re spinning smart.

So, the next time you’re stuck choosing between “Book of This” or “Mega That,” pause. Check the volatility. Peek at the RTP. Glance over the bonus features. Then pick the one that speaks to your soul… or at least your strategy.  In short: don’t just spin – strategize.

Because now you know how to choose slot games like a pro. And that, dear player, is worth more than any scatter symbol.

Hoping for a slot suggestion? Browse the Games section on our blog to find out more about the latest slot releases from Realtime Gaming, nowadays called Spin Logic Gaming. And in case you prefer old-school vibes on the reels, but revamped in design, may we suggest Wild Fire 7s?

It turns classic 3-reel charm into a blazing hot thrill ride. With just 5 paylines and bold retro visuals, it keeps things simple — until that 4th-reel Jackpot or Free Games symbol shows up. Hit the bonus, and you’re looking at 7 free spins with a 5x multiplier and a top prize of 17,850x your base bet — now that’s how old-school does big wins. Try it yourself and let us know your impressions.