Since its release in 2013 by NetEnt, Starburst has remained one of the most played online slot games globally. Despite newer titles launching every month, Starburst’s simple mechanics, captivating visuals, and frequent wins continue to attract both beginners and seasoned slot fans.
Key Takeaway: Starburst is a low-volatility, high-frequency payout slot with a solid 96.06% RTP—ideal for players who enjoy consistent, small wins and visually engaging gameplay.
🎯 Understanding RTP and Volatility in Starburst
One of the most important aspects when evaluating a slot is understanding its Return to Player (RTP) and volatility, both of which heavily influence your chances of winning and the type of gameplay experience you’ll have.
🎲 What is RTP?
RTP, or Return to Player, refers to the theoretical percentage of all wagered money a slot will pay back to players over time. Starburst’s RTP is 96.06%, which means for every €100 wagered, the expected return over a long period is €96.06.
This RTP is above average, making Starburst a fair game compared to other 5-reel slots.
⚖️ What is Volatility?
Volatility (or variance) measures the risk level of a slot. Starburst is a low-volatility slot, meaning:
-
Wins occur more frequently.
-
Payouts are smaller.
-
It’s better suited for longer play sessions and conservative bankrolls.
This makes it ideal for casual players and those who prefer fewer high-stakes swings in their balance.
📊 Starburst Slot At a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Developer | NetEnt |
| Release Year | 2013 |
| Reels & Rows | 5 reels, 3 rows |
| Paylines | 10 (win both ways) |
| RTP | 96.06% |
| Volatility | Low |
| Top Payout | 500x stake (on single spin) |
| Special Feature | Expanding Wilds + Re-Spins |
| Mobile Compatible | Yes, on all iOS & Android devices |
💎 Starburst Symbols & Payouts
There are 7 main symbols in the game, consisting of colorful gems and traditional slot icons. Here’s how they’re structured in terms of payouts:
Basic Symbols:
-
Purple & Blue Gems – Low payouts
-
Orange, Green, Yellow Gems – Medium payouts
-
Red Seven – High payout
-
Golden Bar (Stripe) – Highest payout
Special Symbol:
-
Starburst Wild – Appears on reels 2, 3, and 4. When it lands, it expands to cover the reel and triggers a re-spin, offering chances at additional wins.
💡 How to Win at Starburst
While Starburst doesn’t offer free spins, jackpots, or bonus rounds, its win-both-ways mechanic and re-spins significantly enhance winning potential. You get paid for combinations from both left to right and right to left, doubling your chances.
Tips to Improve Winning Potential:
-
Play longer sessions to increase your odds of hitting frequent payouts.
-
Trigger the Starburst Wild as often as possible—it’s the key to re-spins and extended wins.
-
Use autoplay wisely and always set a budget beforehand.
🧠 Strategy: Manage Your Bankroll Effectively
While you can’t beat a Random Number Generator (RNG), you can extend your playtime and optimize your session using proper financial tactics.
📌 Proven Betting Strategies:
| Strategy Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Martingale (Catch-up) | Double your bet after each loss; reset after a win. High risk. |
| Alternative Catch-up | Increase bets just enough to recover previous losses. More balanced. |
| Flat Betting | Keep the same bet size each round. Low risk, great for discipline. |
| Fixed Percentage | Bet a fixed % of your bankroll (e.g. 5%). Helps adjust automatically. |
🛑 Note: None of these strategies guarantee a win. They only help control your bankroll and increase gameplay duration.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
❓ Is Starburst a high RTP slot?
Yes. Starburst has an RTP of 96.06%, which is considered fair and above average for online slots.
❓ Is Starburst a good slot for beginners?
Absolutely. Its simple mechanics, low volatility, and attractive visuals make it perfect for those new to online slots.
❓ Can I win big on Starburst?
While big wins are possible (up to 500x your stake), the low volatility means they happen less frequently. Expect smaller, steady wins instead.
❓ Does Starburst have a bonus round?
No traditional bonus round, but the Starburst Wild and free re-spin feature act as its main in-game bonuses.
❓ Is Starburst mobile-friendly?
Yes. It works smoothly on all mobile devices and tablets, thanks to NetEnt’s mobile-first design.
✅ Final Thoughts
Starburst remains a timeless classic in the world of online slots. Its low volatility, fair RTP, and iconic expanding wilds make it the go-to choice for players who enjoy fast-paced gameplay with regular wins.
🎯 Remember: Knowing the RTP and volatility of a game gives you the power to choose a slot that fits your playing style and bankroll strategy.
Before you dive in with real money, test Starburst in demo mode, master the symbols, and pick a bankroll strategy that works for you.