What is RTP? Return to player – explained

If you’ve spent any time exploring the world of online casinos and slot games, you’ve likely come across the term ‘RTP’. If you’re wondering what RTP actually means, you’re in the right place. 

Broadly, RTP (return to player) determines the house edge, and how much of the total amount wagered on a game, on average, is returned to players.

We’ll also be covering how RTP is calculated, what counts as a good RTP, and why it's so important.

How is RTP calculated?

The RTP rate is the percentage of the total wagers placed on a game that is returned to players. 

Take, for example, Money Train 3 by Relax Gaming. This title has a 96.1% RTP, which means that for every €100 / $100 wagered on the game, €96.10 / $96.10 will theoretically be paid back to players.

Crucially, the RTP is the estimated outcome based on play over an extended period of time and millions of spins – it's not a guarantee.

In reality, you’re not likely to get exactly €96.10 / $96.10 back when wagering through €100 / $100, because of the average being based on many spins. However, if you were to wager a much larger amount, such as €1m / $1m, you could expect the total payouts to be proportionately closer to the RTP.

The house edge

There is always going to be a house edge, and the challenge is seeing if you can beat it. A higher variance/more volatile game is one which deviates from the RTP more often. A lower variance game aligns more closely with the RTP over fewer spins. 

RTP – good, average and poor rates

RTP is one of the most important things to consider when looking at any slot game. A commonly-cited average RTP is 96%. There are plenty of games out there in this region, and you can consider this a fair level of return.

Games with an RTP of less than 96% are less favourable with experienced players, but that’s not to say that these games aren’t worth playing. RTP isn’t the only stat you should be considering.

Anything over 96% is desirable. High RTP games pay more out to players, on average. Some games go right up to 99%.

When is a low RTP worth it?

Games with progressive network jackpots like Mega Moolah tend to have a lower RTP. The extra house edge includes a percentage that contributes to the jackpot prize pool. That’s not to say they should be avoided though. Play the games you enjoy playing, and don’t view them as a way to make money. Like any big win, the chance of landing a jackpot is very low, but who knows what the next spin will bring…

Jackpots don’t always affect the RTP. Smaller daily and hourly jackpots like Pragmatic Play’s Drops & Wins and Red Tiger’s Daily Jackpots are often found ‘bolted on’ to standard games, and so don’t affect the RTP. 

Sometimes the RTP with the jackpot factored in will be listed, so be careful not to confuse this with the RTP of the base game. 

RTP tips and strategies

Slots are games of chance, but there are strategies that you can use when selecting a slot game.

• Consider RTP alongside other stats. Things like variance/volatility and jackpots can impact whether a particular game suits a player’s preferences.
• Beware of variable RTPs. Some slots have RTPs that vary from one site to the next. Some even release with a higher RTP rate then gradually lower it. Be sure to check regularly and on the casino site where you’re actually playing.
• Combine high RTP with low volatility. This approach is most likely to produce predictable and steady returns. 
• Combine low RTP with high volatility. The high volatility gives you a chance of beating the average RTP.
• Use RTP to extend your gameplay. A high RTP will help your bankroll go further, making the session more enjoyable overall. 
• Make smaller wagers. These will help you to keep more in line with the RTP average. 
• Read trusted reviews of slots. Those that mention RTPs alongside other stats and offer unbiased opinion are most valuable.

Also, it’s important to remember that slots are a form of entertainment, not a means to make money. For this reason, you’ll want to factor in how much you actually enjoy a game!

Summary

RTP is a crucial stat to consider when choosing a slot game, but it’s not the only one. RTP is a theoretical measure, often based on millions of spins, so what you get in reality might be very different. 

Understanding RTP can be to your advantage, especially when combined with volatility and certain jackpots.