What is RTP and why is it important?
If you have ever played an online gambling game – whether it is a slot machine or another casino game – you may have seen the term ‘RTP’. But what exactly does RTP mean? And why is it so important to you as a player? In this blog, we explain it in detail.
What does RTP mean?
RTP stands for Return to Player, which literally means ‘return to the player’. It is expressed as a percentage and indicates how much of the money wagered is returned to players on average over a long period of time.
An example:
Suppose a slot has an RTP of 96%. This means that for every £100 players bet, an average of £96 is returned to the players. The remaining £4 goes to the casino as the ‘house edge’.
Please note: this is a long-term average. It does not guarantee that you will personally win back 96% of your bet during a single playing session.
Why is RTP important for players?
1. Insight into your chances of winning
A higher RTP percentage theoretically means better chances for the player in the long run. For example, if you have a choice between two slot machines – one with 91% RTP and one with 97% – you should choose the one with 97%. In the long run, you will lose less money on average.
2. Transparency and fairness
RTP is an important element of game transparency. Casinos and game developers often include the RTP percentage in the game information. By looking at this, you as a player have more control over your game selection and know that you are not playing blind.
3. Comparison between games
RTP allows you to compare different games. Do you like slots, table games or live casino? Each game has its own RTP range. By comparing them, you can consciously choose games that pay out better.
Difference between RTP and volatility
Many players confuse RTP with volatility, but they are two completely different things.
What is volatility?
Volatility refers to how often and how much a game pays out:
- Low volatility: frequent, smaller wins
- High volatility: less frequent wins, but when you win, it’s often a big win
So, a game with a high RTP can still be very volatile. And a game with low volatility can still have a lower RTP. Both factors are important when choosing a game that suits your playing style.
What is a good RTP?
In the world of online casinos, the following are considered guidelines:
RTP percentage Rating
98% and above Exceptionally good
96% – 97.99% Good to very good
94% – 95.99% Average
Lower than 94% Rather low
Many popular slots such as Starburst, Book of Dead or Gonzo’s Quest have an RTP of around 96%. Classic table games such as blackjack and baccarat often have a higher RTP, sometimes above 99% if you play with the right strategy.
Where can you find the RTP of a game?
At legal online casinos in the United Kingdom (such as those licensed by the Gambling Commission), the RTP of each game must be visible. You will usually find this information:
- In the information screen of the game itself
- On the game developer’s website
- Via the casino’s customer service
Not sure? Ask! Transparency is a sign of a reliable casino.
Final thoughts: Play smart, play consciously
RTP is not a magic key to guaranteed winnings, but it is a powerful tool for making smart decisions. By checking the RTP percentage and combining it with your knowledge of volatility, you not only play more consciously, you also have more fun and control.
Remember: gambling is and remains a form of entertainment. Therefore, always play with money you can afford to lose and use tools such as play limits or breaks when necessary.
Frequently asked questions about RTP
🟢 Is RTP the same as your chance of winning?
Not exactly. RTP is a theoretical long-term average, not a guarantee for individual sessions. Your chance of winning is also influenced by volatility and game mechanics.
🟢 Can an RTP change?
Some games offer multiple versions with different RTPs. A casino can set a lower RTP if the provider allows it. Therefore, choose reliable providers.
🟢 Does live casino also have an RTP?
Yes, live casino games such as roulette, blackjack and baccarat also have an RTP, depending on the game rules and variants.
