The world of online casino is constantly evolving with new and exciting game formats emerging and challenging traditional games. One of the most talked-about trends in recent years is Aviator, a fast-paced, multiplier-based game. Unlike traditional slot machines, which rely on spinning reels and paylines, Aviator introduces a more interactive and strategic way to bet.
Aviator was created by Spribe, a software development company founded in 2018 and based in Kyiv, Ukraine. Spribe is known for pioneering a new category of casino games known as “crash games”, with Aviator being their most popular title. The game has gained massive popularity in the iGaming world due to its provably fair system, social multiplayer features and interactive gameplay. Spribe has also partnered with leading casino platforms and regulators, helping Aviator become available in over 100 countries. Spribe CEO David Natroshvili has been a prominent figure in advocating for skill-based gambling and crypto-friendly gaming solutions.
Aviator gaming is unique because it blends elements of crash games with traditional betting. Players place a wager and watch as a virtual plane ascends, with the multiplier increasing until it randomly “flies away.” The goal is to cash out before the plane disappears. This adds a thrilling risk-reward dynamic. Aviator requires quick decision-making unlike slots which rely purely on random number generators (RNGs). While traditional slots continue to dominate, accounting for 70% of online casino game revenue (Statista, 2024), Aviator is rapidly gaining ground. It has now secured a spot among the top 5 most-played crash games worldwide.
Aviator Gaming
Aviator is a multiplayer crash game where players place a bet and watch a plane take off. As the plane flies, the multiplier (the amount you can win) keeps increasing. The goal is to “cash out” before the plane crashes. The longer the player wait to cash out, the higher the potential payout, but if the player wait too long and the plane crashes, player loses all the bet. Unlike traditional slots, Aviator gaming is skill-based and timing-dependent. It adds a layer of strategy and control that standard slot games lack. The multipliers typically start at 1.00x and can soar past 100x, making the game high-risk but potentially high-reward.
For example, if a player places a €10 bet at the beginning of a round, as the game starts, the plane begins to take off and the multiplier starts at 1x. The player watches the multiplier increase as the plane continues to fly. At some point, the player decides to cash out when the multiplier reaches 5x, winning €50 (€10 bet x 5). However, if the player had waited longer and the plane crashed before cashing out, they would have lost their €10 bet. The key to winning in Aviator is timing. The sooner you cash out, the smaller your winnings, but the safer you are from losing your bet.
The game operates on a provably fair algorithm, allowing players to verify the fairness of each round. The house edge in Aviator is usually between 1% and 3%, which is slightly more favourable compared to many traditional slot games. Furthermore, the potential for big wins is significant. According to Spribe’s official case studies, some players have walked away with over €500,000 from a single round. This blend of risk, control and potential reward makes Aviator a compelling alternative to conventional slot machines.
Traditional Slots
Traditional slot machines have been around for decades captivating players with their simplicity and excitement. These games feature spinning reels adorned with symbols and players win by lining up matching symbols across predefined paylines. The outcome of each spin is determined by a random number generator (RNG), ensuring fairness and unpredictability in every round. Slots are considered games of pure chance with no player influence once the spin begins.
Payouts in slot games are based on paylines, bonus rounds and sometimes progressive jackpots. They operate on a RTP percentage, which typically ranges from 92% to 98% for online slots. For example, a slot with a 96% RTP suggests that, over time, players might get €96 back for every €100 wagered. However, this is a long-term average, and outcomes remain entirely random. The house edge usually falls between 2% and 8%, depending on the specific slot. In traditional slots volatility varies widely. Low-volatility slots provide frequent but smaller wins, while high-volatility games offer rare but potentially massive payouts. Some of the biggest wins in casino history have come from progressive slots, with jackpots reaching into the multi-million-euro range. Jon Heywood, a British gambler, holds the record for the largest online slot win—€18.9 million on Mega Moolah in 2018.
Which Game Offers Better Returns?
One of the most critical factors when comparing these games is Return to Player (RTP), which represents the percentage of wagered money a game returns to players over time. Aviator games generally offer a high RTP, typically ranging from 97% to 98%, which is often higher than that of most traditional online slot machines. This makes Aviator an attractive choice for players seeking better theoretical returns.
Unlike slots that rely entirely on luck, Aviator rewards strategic timing. The key to success is often cashing out early to secure smaller, more consistent wins. However, since the crash point is random and can occur at any moment, players also face the risk of losing their entire bet if they wait too long. This unique blend of high RTP and real-time decision-making introduces an exciting mix of risk and reward that sets Aviator apart from conventional slots.
When it comes to online slot machines, RTP varies significantly. Progressive jackpot slots may offer RTPs as low as 88%, while standard video slots typically range around 96%. Slot games also differ in volatility—a measure of how often and how much a game pays out. High-volatility slots offer the potential for big wins but come with fewer payouts and longer dry spells. In contrast, low-volatility slots deliver more frequent, smaller wins, making them ideal for extended gameplay with reduced risk.
Another major point of comparison is volatility. Aviator is considered a high-volatility game, meaning players may go several rounds without a win but can hit massive multipliers—sometimes exceeding 100x—in a single round. While traditional slots offer a wider spectrum of volatility, allowing players to choose games that suit their preferences, Aviator appeals more to thrill-seekers who enjoy high-risk, high-reward gameplay.
Overall, Aviator stands out due to its higher RTP, interactive mechanics, and intense volatility. It offers a more dynamic and engaging experience for players who appreciate having a hand in the outcome, whereas traditional slots are better suited for those who prefer simpler, chance-based gameplay with more consistent returns.
Final Thoughts
When deciding between Aviator gaming and traditional slots, it ultimately comes down to players playstyle and risk tolerance. Aviator offers a higher RTP compared to slots. Aviator gaming also includes a strong skill component through cash-out timing. Its high volatility and potential for 100x+ wins per round make it ideal for players seeking fast-paced, strategic gameplay with thrilling rewards. In contrast, traditional slots vary in volatility and provide a more structured experience with themed bonus rounds and progressive jackpots. If you enjoy the unpredictability of crash mechanics and having more control over the outcome, Aviator is a better choice. However, if you prefer a more relaxed, luck-based game with familiar formats, then traditional slots remain a classic go-to. A 2023 survey found that 40% of gamblers under 35 prefer Aviator-style games over slots due to faster gameplay.
Aviator typically offers a lower house edge (1-3%) compared to many slots (2-8%), making it more appealing to those seeking improved returns. However, slots offer unmatched variety and the potential for life-changing wins via progressive jackpots. With the rising popularity of Aviator and other crash-style games, it’s clear the future of online gambling will likely involve more hybrid formats that blend elements of strategy with chance.