High volatility poker machines

Introduction

High volatility in poker machines means that winnings in such games are much less common, but much more significant in size. These slots are particularly attractive to players willing to take a chance on big payouts and have become popular with Australian gamers looking for excitement, high risk and plenty of potential to win. In 2025, a plethora of high-volatility slots continue to capture the attention of players around the world. In this article, we take a look at the best high-volatility poker machines that continue to be favourites among Australians.

What is high volatility?

Volatility (or variance) determines how often and what winnings a player can expect.

High volatility means slots will deliver big but rare wins. This distinguishes such games from low-volatility slots, where wins occur frequently but are usually small.
High-volatility games attract those willing to wait for big wins, risking losing money in between payouts.
The advantage of such slots is their ability to offer large payouts, making them attractive to experienced players who prefer higher stakes and risks.

TOP High Volatility Pokies

1. Mega Moolah (Microgaming)

Features: Progressive jackpot, freespins, bonus games.
Why in the top: Mega Moolah is the progressive jackpot slot made famous by its record-breaking payouts. High volatility and the chance of huge winnings make him a favourite among Australian punters willing to risk big payouts.
Platform: Available at PlayAmo, Royal Vegas Casino.

2. Dead or Alive II (NetEnt)

Features: Expanding Wild-symbols, multipliers, bonus games.
Why at the top: Dead or Alive II is known for its high volatility and great opportunities for winnings through bonus features. It's the perfect choice for players looking to try their luck and get big payouts despite the rarity of winnings.
Platform: Available at Spin Palace, Bet365.

3. Book of Dead (Play’n GO)

Features: Frispins with expanding symbols.
Why at the top: Book of Dead is a classic high-volatility slot that continues to grab attention for its unique mechanics and opportunities for big payouts in bonus games.
Platform: Available on Unibet, Casumo.

4. Gonzo’s Quest (NetEnt)

Features: Cascade wins, multipliers.
Why at the top: Gonzo's Quest is a high-volatility slot that grabs players "attention with its cascading winnings and multiplier option in bonus games. Its high volatility makes it an ideal choice for those willing to take a chance on big wins.
Platform: Available on LeoVegas, Casumo.

5. Thunderstruck II (Microgaming)

Features: Multipliers, bonus games, high volatility.
Why at the top: Thunderstruck II draws punters with its high volatility and potential for big bonus game wins. The slot is great for players who care about big risks and the possibility of high payouts.
Platform: Available at Spin Palace, Bet365.

6. Buffalo Gold (Aristocrat)

Features: Multipliers, freespins, bonus games.
Why at the top: Buffalo Gold is a high-volatility slot that allows for significant payouts thanks to bonus rounds and multipliers. Players looking for big risks for big payouts often opt for this slot.
Platform: Available at Fair Go Casino, PlayAmo.

Why Australians are opting for high-volatility slots

1. Chance of big wins. High volatility attracts those who are willing to take risks for a big win. Such games offer a chance for big payouts, making them attractive to experienced players.
2. Excitement and dynamics of the game. These slots offer immersive gameplay where each spin can result in a significant payoff.
3. Mobile device support. Many high-volatility slots are optimized for mobile devices, allowing you to play on the go and enjoy quality gameplay at any time.
4. Great payout potential. Players choose high-volatility slots because they can generate large payouts, making them ideal for those looking for long-term benefits.

Result

High-volatility poker machines such as Mega Moolah, Dead or Alive II, Gonzo's Quest and Thunderstruck II remain favourites among Australian punters looking for big wins and a fun gaming experience. These slots offer high potential for large payouts, but with certain risks, which makes them ideal for experienced players who are ready to take on the challenge. If you're prepared for high risk for big wins, high volatility slots are the way to go.