In the world of online casinos, the term “Return To Player” (RTP) is crucial for understanding your chances of winning. Whether you’re new or experienced, understanding RTP can greatly impact your strategy and potential winnings.
In this blog, we’ll explore what RTP means, how we calculate it, and how it affects your overall gameplay experience.
What is Return To Player (RTP)?
RTP, or Return To Player, is the percentage of total wagers a game pays back to players over time. For example, with an RTP of 96%, a pokies game returns AU$96 for every AU$100 wagered. The remaining AU$4 represents the house edge.
RTP is calculated over a long period, usually through millions of spins or game rounds. While RTP provides a general idea, short-term results can vary widely.
How is RTP Calculated?
Online casinos calculate RTP using a formula that compares the total amount bet to the total amount paid out to players. This formula helps determine the percentage of wagers returned to players over time. The formula is straightforward:
RTP = (Total Amount Returned to Players / Total Amount Wagered) x 100
For example, if AU$10,000 is wagered on a game and AU$9,600 is returned to players, the RTP would be:
Game developers determine the RTP, which is a fixed percentage. This percentage stays the same regardless of the amount of bets or the number of players in the game.
Why RTP Matters to Players
Understanding RTP can help players make more informed decisions when choosing which games to play. A higher RTP means that a game gives back more money to players. This makes it a better choice for those who want to increase their chances of winning.
However, it’s essential to remember that RTP is not a guarantee of how much you will win in a single session. It’s a statistical measure calculated over a long period so that short-term results can be unpredictable. This is where the element of luck plays a significant role in gambling.
RTP vs. Volatility: What’s the Difference?
While RTP is an essential factor in choosing a game, it’s not the only one. Volatility, or variance, is another crucial element to consider. Volatility is the measure of risk in a game, indicating how often and how much it might pay out.
- Low Volatility: Games with low volatility provide smaller, more frequent payouts. They are best for players who enjoy consistent, smaller wins.
- High Volatility: Games with high volatility offer larger payouts but occur less often. They are suited for players willing to take greater risks for the possibility of significant wins.
Knowing how much risk and reward a game offers can help players choose games that match their preferences and comfort level.
How to Find the RTP of a Game
If you’re interested in knowing the RTP of a game before you start playing, there are a few ways to find this information:
Game Information or Paytable
Online casino games, such as Online Pokies, display RTP information for players to view. You can find this information in the paytable or game rules section.
RTP stands for Return to Player. It indicates the percentage of wagered money paid back to players over time. Players can use this information to make informed decisions about which games to play. Look for an “info” button or navigate to the game’s menu to find this data.
Casino Website
Some online casinos display the RTP of their games on their website. You can find this information on the game’s main page or in a dedicated game information section.
Third-Party Review Sites
Many websites that review online casino games also provide RTP information. These sites can be a great resource for comparing the RTP of different games before deciding where to spend your time and money.
RTP in Different Game Types
RTP applies to all types of online casino games, not just pokies. Here’s a quick look at how RTP works in some popular game categories:
Online Pokies
Online Pokie games typically have a wide range of RTP percentages, usually between 90% and 98%. The variance in RTP allows players to choose games based on their preferred risk.
Table Games
Games like Blackjack, Roulette, and Baccarat also have RTP percentages. European Roulette has an RTP of about 97.3%, while some blackjack games can reach RTPs of 99.5%.
Video Poker
Video poker games usually have very high RTPs, sometimes over 99% if you use the right strategy. The best-paying versions are Joker Poker (100.64%) or Deuces Wild (100.76%).
Live Casino Games
Live dealer games also have RTPs, though they may vary depending on the specific rules and variations of the game. We recommend European or French Roulette tables for the best win rates.
How RTP Affects Your Gameplay
RTP has a direct impact on your overall gaming experience. Games with higher RTPs give players more value for their money by returning a larger portion of the wagered amount. However, it’s important to combine RTP knowledge with an understanding of game volatility and your playing habits.
If you like playing games for a long time, choose one with a high RTP and low volatility. This way, you’ll win smaller amounts more often, making the game more enjoyable. If you enjoy the thrill of winning big, a high-volatility game with a lower RTP could be more exciting for you.
Common Myths About RTP
Several misconceptions about RTP can lead to misunderstandings. Here are a few common myths:
- A high RTP guarantees a win. RTP is a long-term average and doesn’t ensure a win in any given session.
- RTP changes with the time of day or number of players. RTP is a fixed percentage set by the game developer and doesn’t fluctuate based on external factors.
- Games with the same RTP are identical. While games may have the same RTP, their volatility and features can lead to different gameplay experiences.
Leveraging Win Rates
Return To Player (RTP) is a vital concept for any online casino player to understand. It shows how much a game will pay out in the long run, helping you choose which games to play more wisely. However, remember that RTP is just one piece of the puzzle. Consider the game’s volatility, your playing style, and your risk tolerance when choosing your next game.
Knowing RTP and how it affects win rates can enhance your online gaming experience and make it more rewarding.
