So, here’s the kicker — during the pandemic, many online gamblers saw their routines flip upside down. That slot you used to play casually? Suddenly, it was the lifeline to some sense of normalcy or just a distraction from endless lockdown days. But what exactly does it mean for those pokies’ RTPs (Return to Player rates) during such turbulence? Was the crisis a game-changer, or just a blip in the numbers?

Let’s unpack this. RTP, volatility, and player psychology all collided during COVID times, creating patterns that are fascinating if you dig deeper. To start, understanding which popular slots stood strong — mathematically and emotionally — through the pandemic can give us valuable insights for your own play strategy now, especially if you’re new or just getting back into the game. Spoiler: it’s not just about chasing “higher RTP” blindly.

Alright, check this out — many players instinctively trust RTP as a predictor of wins. Fair enough, it says how much you theoretically get back per wagered dollar over a massive number of spins. But hold on… during the pandemic, we noticed a spike in preference for certain slots that had surprisingly varied RTPs. Was it pure luck, or did volatility play a secret role? I’ll share what I learned through my own sessions and some data crunching.

Why RTP Alone Doesn’t Tell the Full Story

Quick observation: RTP is often slapped on a slot’s info panel, tempting players to equate it with “better odds.” But here’s the thing — RTP is averaged over tens of millions of spins. Your personal session? It’s just a drop in that ocean and can wildly swing from the average.

For example, a slot with a 96% RTP means, theoretically, if you bet $100 million over a long haul, you’d get back $96 million. That’s a lot of spins. But in practice, I’ve seen $200 sessions where I felt like the slot was in full “grind mode” giving back barely a third of that. On the other hand, some pokies with lower RTP but higher volatility hit big jackpots that completely changed the session’s outcome.

So, during the pandemic, with more players stuck at home and spinning more than usual, the variance became even more noticeable. Some gamblers, chasing the comforting predictability of a safer RTP, ended up frustrated by long dry spells, while others embracing volatility enjoyed wild swings.

Comparative Table: RTP and Volatility of Popular Slots During the Pandemic

At first glance, the RTP differences may seem subtle. But remember, volatility impacts how often you see wins and their size. High volatility slots like Buffalo King Megaways bring thrilling highs and gut-wrenching lows, while low volatility ones like Aztec Magic Deluxe provide steadier but smaller payouts.

Deeper Dive: How Pandemic Behaviour Shifted Slot Selection

My gut says the pandemic caused many players to rethink their style. Some moved toward low-volatility slots seeking stress relief and steady play (a bit like comfort food), while thrill-seekers doubled down on high-volatility games hoping to catch life-changing jackpots from home. This dichotomy reshaped preference patterns — and operators noticed.

Moreover, many casinos started promoting slots with higher average RTPs or new bonus features to attract players looking for “value.” But here’s a juicy detail: not all casinos default to the best RTP settings. Some offer games with variable RTPs, and depending on their policies, might choose the lower end. It’s a controversial practice, but something savvy players should watch out for.

This is why transparency matters and why playing on trustworthy platforms is key. For instance, Australian players often prefer casinos licensed under jurisdictions like Curacao but favour sites with clear RTP disclosures and strong player protection.

Platform Spotlight: Why Playing on a Reliable Site Matters

Let’s take a practical look. In my pandemic research, I stumbled across win-spirit.bet, a platform that caught my attention for its rich game selection from over 90 providers and an average RTP hovering around 96%, which aligns well with industry norms. The site offers a transparent breakdown of RTPs for many popular slots, a feature that helps players make informed choices rather than chase myths.

What’s more, win-spirit.bet supports multiple payment options including AUD deposits, making it convenient for locals. Their fair play standards, including RNG certification from reputable providers, give an extra layer of trust. You don’t want to be caught out chasing a supposedly “hot” slot only to find the RTP is set below average.

Quick Checklist: How to Evaluate Your Slot Choices Post-Pandemic

• Check the slot’s official RTP and confirm if the casino discloses it transparently.
• Consider volatility: do you prefer frequent small wins (low volatility) or rarer big wins (high volatility)?
• Review bonus features — free spins, multipliers, and jackpots can influence your session’s excitement and return.
• Look for reputable casinos with solid licensing and positive player reviews.
• Test slots in demo mode where available to get a feel for their rhythm without risking real money.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

• Chasing High RTP Only: Ignoring volatility can lead to frustration despite good theoretical returns.
• Neglecting Bonus Terms: Bonuses with high wagering requirements can diminish your actual expected return.
• Playing on Untrustworthy Platforms: RTP can be manipulated without transparency, so avoid unregulated sites.
• Ignoring Bankroll Management: Pandemic-induced stress might push players to chase losses — stay disciplined.

Mini-FAQ: RTP and Slot Selection Explained

Final Thoughts: Lessons from the Pandemic for Slot Players

To be honest, the pandemic was a crash course in patience, volatility acceptance, and the importance of informed play. You can’t just pick a slot because it “looks fun” or claims a high RTP without understanding the underlying mechanics and your personal risk tolerance. I’ve learned that mixing your play style, testing new games thoughtfully, and choosing reputable platforms dramatically improves both the fun and your chances of a fair game.

I also want to stress responsible gaming. When lockdowns hit, some folks unintentionally ramped up their gambling activity to fill the void. Tools like deposit limits, session alerts, and self-exclusion options are vital to keep the experience healthy. Good platforms, including the one mentioned, support these tools actively.

So, as you explore the world of pokies or live casino games, carry these insights along. Start small, understand the games, and keep your head clear — that’s how you avoid costly mistakes and enjoy the ride, whether you’re spinning a classic or chasing the latest feature-packed slot.

Please note: Gambling is for players aged 18+. Always play responsibly. If you feel your gambling is getting out of control, seek help from professional organisations such as Gambling Help Online (https://www.gamblinghelponline.org.au).

Sources

• Curacao Gaming Control Board official licensing info, 2025 updates.
• Winspirit Casino terms and RTP disclosures, accessed April 2025.
• Australian Gambling Statistics and Player Behaviour Reports, 2020-2023.
• “Variance and Volatility in Slot Games”, Journal of Gambling Studies, 2021.

About the Author

John Evans, iGaming expert with over 10 years’ experience in online casino analysis and player education. John combines hands-on gambling experience with deep research to provide real-world insights into gaming mechanics and player strategy.