High RTP vs High Volatility: Which Pokies Work Best for NZ Players?

Slots or pokies are the most played casino game in New Zealand, with approximately 80% of adults participating in the games. New Zealanders spent $528 million on pokie machines during 2022. By the end of March 2023, it was the first time in 20 years that pokie machine profits surpassed $1 billion in the country.

Online slots, on the other hand, have seen significant growth and offer a much wider variety of games. But here’s the thing, though, pokies have a rate-to-player percentage (RTP) and have varying volatility. However, there is a massive difference between the RTPs and volatility found in pokies online and in physical venues.

Online slots usually offer higher RTPs, whereas physical pokies tend to have lower RTPs, and the volatility remains fixed. This difference between online pokies and traditional pokie machines impacts the gaming experience, game selection, and even the prize potential.

Traditional Venue VS. Online Casino RTPs

The RTP indicates the percentage of money that pokie machines will distribute to players over time. A 97% RTP, for example, means the machine is set to return $97 out of every $100 wagered, in theory, across millions of spins.

Online casinos in New Zealand typically offer RTPs that fall between 95% and 98%. These platforms also have a much wider selection of pokies with different themes, reel structures, and bonus features that traditional casinos do not offer. Online pokies also have various paylines that change the game’s volatility and reward potential. 

Physical pokies, on the other hand, RTPs typically sit at the lower range of about 88% to 94%. They generally tend to have fixed paylines, which are pretty much limited by the machine’s hardware.

This difference mainly comes down to cost. Online casinos don’t have the responsibility of running physical venues, machines, or large teams of staff, so they can afford to return a higher percentage to players.

How Volatility Differs Between Online and Physical Pokies

The level of volatility determines both the frequency of pokie payouts and the size of their associated winnings. High volatility results in fewer but larger payment amounts. Low volatility results in regular small wins. The main difference exists in the level of player control between the two systems. 

Online pokie games offer players access to numerous game options that span across various volatility levels. Some games allow players to select their preferred volatility level between low, medium, and high settings while playing the same game. The software design of these games enables developers to build pokie mechanics that support various risk tolerance levels. 

Physical pokies fixed volatility means that once the machine is programmed, it stays that way. You get what’s been set by the operator, with no option to adjust it or even know exactly what you’re playing.

Which Works Best for NZ Players?

People play pokies because they find the games entertaining, and they can make their money last longer by playing for extended periods and winning small amounts regularly. The perfect combination for these players consists of high RTP and low to medium volatility levels. The program delivers excellent value for money through its engaging environment, which avoids putting a strain on your finances. 

Some players choose to risk their entire balance for the possibility of winning life-altering amounts of money. High-volatility pokies are designed for this style of player, especially when paired with a decent RTP. Players need to be patient and have a substantial bankroll to play these games because they provide access to progressive jackpots that standard games do not offer. 

A workable solution exists for this situation. Online casinos show RTP and volatility information in the game descriptions they display to players. This allows Kiwis to choose pokies that fit their goals, instead of blindly spinning and hoping for the best. The RTP rates of online slots in New Zealand pubs and clubs are lower than their online counterparts, which is why players who seek maximum returns select online platforms. 

How to Check RTP and Volatility

The easiest way to check RTP is within the game itself. Online pokies always include this information in the paytable or help section. Volatility is often shown as “low,” “medium,” or “high,” though some providers describe it differently.

Game developer websites also list this information. Companies like NetEnt, Pragmatic Play, and Microgaming publish RTP and volatility details for their titles. Third-party review sites are another quick source for comparing games side by side.

Land-based pokies are less transparent, and the RTP is rarely displayed; players usually have no way of knowing the volatility. These machines often return less than online versions, which is why informed players usually consider online casinos the smarter choice.

Why It Matters

Understanding RTP and volatility helps you choose pokies that fit your playing style and budget. If you enjoy longer sessions and just want entertainment, look for pokies with high RTP and low volatility. These games pay out smaller wins more frequently, stretching your bankroll and giving you more chances to trigger fun bonus rounds that keep the gameplay exciting.

If you’re chasing big jackpots and don’t mind the risk, go for high-volatility pokies. These games can drain your balance faster, but also offer the chance for massive payouts. When combined with a high RTP, this mix is often called the sweet spot for risk-takers, although it takes patience and the ability to handle losing streaks.

Every pokie spins independently using a Random Number Generator (RNG), which guarantees each spin is random and unpredictable. RTP and volatility describe how the game behaves over many spins, not what will happen in any single session. Knowing these stats means you can make smarter choices instead of leaving everything to chance.

Practical Tips for Choosing the Right Pokies

• Always check the RTP before playing. Online pokies typically display this information clearly.
  
• Use demo versions to get a feel for volatility. A few spins in free mode can reveal whether a game pays frequently or rarely.
  
• Manage your bankroll carefully. For high-volatility titles, smaller bets are recommended to survive the inevitable dry runs. For low-volatility games, larger bets can add excitement without depleting funds too quickly.
  
• Mix your choices. Some players enjoy starting with low-volatility pokies to build up small wins, then switching to a high-volatility title for a chance at something bigger.