1Understand RTP
RTP (Return to Player) is the percentage of all wagered money that a slot machine is designed to pay back to players over millions of spins. A slot with 96% RTP will theoretically return R96 for every R100 wagered over its lifetime.
RTP is calculated over millions of spins - it does not mean you will get R96 back from every R100 you personally wager in a single session. In the short term, results vary wildly. RTP is a long-term statistical average.
97%+
Excellent RTP
96-97%
Good RTP
Below 95%
Avoid
Always look for slots with RTP of 96% or higher. Avoid progressive jackpot slots like Mega Moolah (88.1% RTP) unless you are specifically chasing the jackpot - the low RTP funds the jackpot prize pool.
2Understand volatility
Volatility (also called variance) describes how a slot pays out - the frequency and size of wins. It is separate from RTP and equally important when choosing a slot.
Low volatility
Wins frequently but in small amounts. Your bankroll stays relatively stable. Good for long sessions and bonus wagering.
Medium volatility
A balance between frequency and size. Moderate swings in your bankroll. Good all-round choice.
High volatility
Wins are rare but can be very large. Expect long losing streaks followed by big wins. Requires a larger bankroll.
Very high volatility
Extreme swings. Can go many spins without a win, but maximum wins can be 5,000x-20,000x your bet. For experienced players with large bankrolls only.
3Match to your bankroll
Your bankroll size should determine which volatility level you choose. Playing high-volatility slots with a small bankroll is the fastest way to lose your money before the big wins arrive.
Small bankroll (under R500)
Low volatility, RTP 96%+
e.g. Starburst, Fruit Shop
Medium bankroll (R500-R2,000)
Low to medium volatility
e.g. Gonzo's Quest, Reactoonz
Large bankroll (R2,000-R5,000)
Medium to high volatility
e.g. Book of Dead, Sweet Bonanza
High roller (R5,000+)
High to very high volatility
e.g. Gates of Olympus, Rise of Merlin
4Match to your goal
For bonus wagering, choose low-volatility slots with RTP above 96% like Starburst or Fruit Shop.
Your goal for the session matters as much as your bankroll. Different goals call for different slot types:
Clearing a bonus
Low volatility, high RTP (96%+). You need to wager a set amount - low volatility keeps your bankroll alive long enough to complete the requirement.
Long entertainment session
Low to medium volatility. Frequent wins keep the session going and make it more enjoyable.
Chasing a big win
High to very high volatility. Accept that you may lose your session budget, but the potential wins are much larger.
Progressive jackpot
Jackpot-specific slots like Mega Moolah. Accept the lower base RTP in exchange for life-changing jackpot potential.
Popular SA slots compared
| Game | RTP | Volatility | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starburst | 96.1% | Low | Bonus wagering, beginners |
| Fruit Shop | 96.7% | Low-Medium | Bonus wagering, steady play |
| Book of Dead | 96.2% | High | Big win hunting, large bankroll |
| Gates of Olympus | 96.5% | Very High | Max win potential, large bankroll |
| Sweet Bonanza | 96.5% | High | Big win hunting, bonus buys |
| Mega Moolah | 88.1% | Medium | Progressive jackpot hunters |
Try Starburst, Fruit Shop, Gates of Olympus or Sweet Bonanza, or practice for free in our free games section.