RTP and volatility simulator for online slots
See why a 96% RTP still means most sessions end below the starting balance.
This simulator models a slot session in Canadian dollars. Enter your balance, bet, RTP, spins and volatility to see the expected loss and the share of 300 simulated sessions that finish ahead or run out of money. It is simplified and meant for learning.
RTP is the long-run return of a game. It says how much is paid back on average over millions of spins, not what happens in your session. To see all the alternatives, consult the online casinos in Canada.
The simulator runs 300 random sessions with your settings so you can see how wide the range of results can be.
Educational RTP and volatility simulator
How does the simulator work?
Each spin has a chance of paying a multiple of your bet, chosen so that the average return equals the RTP you enter. Low volatility means frequent small wins. High volatility means rare large wins. The tool repeats the whole session 300 times and reports the share that ended above the starting balance, the share that ran out and the median balance.
What should you notice?
- The expected loss is simply total wagered times the house edge.
- More spins mean more expected loss, even at a high RTP.
- High volatility increases both the number of busted sessions and the size of rare big wins.
- Changing RTP from 96 to 94 per cent doubles the expected loss per spin.
For the theory behind these results, see our slots guide.
What the model leaves out
Real slots have features, free spins and jackpots that this simple model does not copy. The results are illustrative, not predictions for any game. Each run uses random numbers, so numbers change slightly every time you click.
How to use it responsibly
Use the simulator to set realistic expectations, then decide on a budget with the budget calculator. If the simulation shows that most sessions end lower than you start, believe it: that is the house edge at work. Visit the responsible gambling page for limits and support.
Frequently asked questions
What is a good RTP?
A higher RTP means a lower house edge, so 97 per cent is better for you than 94 per cent. Many slots sit between 94 and 97 per cent. RTP is a long-term average, so even the best slot loses money for most players in a typical session. Check the exact RTP in the game info.
Why did my simulation end above my balance?
Because variance is real: in a short session, many players finish ahead even on a game with a house edge. Over more spins the average result moves toward the expected loss. Increase the number of spins in the tool and you will see the share of winning sessions fall.
Does volatility change the house edge?
No. Two slots with the same RTP have the same house edge regardless of volatility. Volatility changes how the results are distributed: small frequent wins versus rare large ones. It affects how long your balance lasts and how bumpy the ride is, not the expected cost.