What's Really Happening Behind the Reels
The Truth About RNGs, Paylines & Odds
Every spin on an online pokie is made by a random number generator (RNG), meaning that outcomes can’t be tampered with or predicted beforehand. What appears as reels, symbols, and paylines is just the visible layer shown in graphics. There’s a complex math engine being used that determines the wins and losses. When you learn how volatility, payout rates, and bonus triggers influence gameplay, you gain the power to judge games on substance—not just visuals. Want to compare top pokies? Browse our pokies reviews featuring accurate RTP figures and gameplay breakdowns.
Many Aussie players are surprised to find out how differently online pokies can play — even when the visuals look alike. What really shapes your session comes down to things like how many paylines are active, how volatile the game is, and what features are in play. Sticky wilds, multipliers, scatter pays, and bonus rounds can all shift the way a slot behaves. At Slotsdudes, we try out new titles every month to spotlight which games actually offer the best value and entertainment for Australian players.
Key Phrases Explained
- RNG: Short for Random Number Generator — this ensures every spin result is completely random and cannot be manipulated.
- Paylines: These are the set patterns on the reels that determine which symbol combinations lead to a payout.
- Volatility: A measure of risk in the game — low volatility means more frequent small wins, while high volatility offers fewer but potentially larger payouts.
- Wild Symbol: A versatile symbol that can stand in for most others to help create winning combinations.
- Scatter: Often the key to unlocking features like free spins or bonus rounds, scatters usually don’t need to land on a payline to pay out.
Our Take
Always choose games from reputable pokie providers, and take a moment to check the volatility rating — it helps you figure out whether you're after steady, smaller wins or bigger payouts that land less often. Understanding this can make your pokie sessions more enjoyable and better matched to how you like to play.
RTP vs Volatility: What Aussie Players Should Know
The Real Value of RTP in Online Pokies
RTP (Return to Player) shows the average percentage a pokie is expected to pay back over a large number of spins. For example, a 95% RTP means the game is designed to return AU$95 for every AU$100 wagered — over time. It doesn’t guarantee short-term wins, but it’s a useful way to compare pokies based on real math rather than flashy graphics. Just be sure to check the actual RTP at the casino you're playing on in Australia, as it can vary slightly between platforms.
How Volatility Impacts Your Pokie Experience
Pokie volatility, also known as variance, refers to how often wins hit and how large they tend to be. Low volatility pokies usually deliver smaller, steady payouts that keep your balance alive, while high volatility games can go quiet for a while — then land one big, exciting win. Understanding this helps you choose a game that fits your playing style. A great example is Bonanza Megaways, created by Australia’s own Big Time Gaming, which balances frequent base hits with thrilling bonus rounds.
Finding the Right Mix of RTP and Volatility
RTP and volatility work together to shape how a pokie plays — there’s no one-size-fits-all setup, but smart players use both to guide their choices. If you're after a laid-back, longer session, look for pokies with a high RTP and medium volatility. Chasing bigger wins? High volatility pokies might suit you better. You can explore plenty of examples in our pokie listings, where we review new releases regularly — most with a free demo so you can try before committing real money.
Popular Pokie Types
Understanding the Megaways Pokie Mechanic
Megaways pokies were developed by Big Time Gaming — an Australian company that reshaped the industry with its dynamic reel engine. Their first Megaways title, Dragon Born, laid the groundwork, but it was Bonanza that made the format a global favourite. Unlike traditional pokies with fixed paylines, Megaways games change the number of symbols per reel on every spin — creating up to 117,649 ways to win.
Popular Megaways Pokies
Golden Goose Megaways™
by: Big Time Gaming
Release: 27th nov 2024
Bonanza Megaways
by: Big Time Gaming
Release: 7th December 2016
Who Wants to Be a Millionaire
by: Big Time Gaming
Release: 14th November 2018Understanding High Volatility Pokies
High volatility pokies are designed for players who enjoy the thrill of chasing big wins — even if that means enduring longer dry spells. These games don’t hit often, but when they do, the payouts can be massive. A great example is Gates of Olympus by Pragmatic Play, known for its giant multipliers and all-ways payout system. These pokies demand patience, a steady mindset, and a bankroll that can handle the ups and downs.
Popular High Volatility Pokies
Trigger Happy
by: Big Time Gaming
Release: 22nd May 2024
Karen Maneater
by: Nolimit City
Release: 10th May 2022
Valkyries
by: Peter & Sons
Release: 27th January 2022Key Pokie Terms Explained
- Return to Player (RTP): The percentage a pokie is designed to return to players over time. A higher RTP may improve your chances in the long run, though each session is still unpredictable.
- Volatility: Also called variance — this indicates how often wins occur and whether they’re typically small or high-impact.
- Bankroll: The funds you’ve set aside for playing pokies. Matching your bankroll to volatility helps you manage risk and stay in control.