To an outsider, it might seem that casino games all work pretty much the same way. In reality, though, the truth is quite different.
It’s not just the themed visuals, the soundtrack, or the various features that tend to vary from title to title. There are also technical elements that deserve the player’s attention.
So, before you give it a whirl on the next big release, let’s look at why RTP should be at the top of your list of factors to consider when choosing online casino games.
What RTP means
Short for return to player, RTP is a percentage that indicates how much a casino game is theoretically designed to give back to players in prizes over the long term. If a game has an RTP of 95%, for example, it means the theoretical return is $95 for every $100 wagered.
The house edge
No casino game is offered without some built-in advantage for the house, and RTP helps show how big it is. The lower the RTP, the higher the house edge, and vice versa. Following the same example, then, 95% is the same as 5% for the house. That is, $5 for every $100 wagered.
There are no guarantees
Keep in mind that there is no set timeframe for this theoretical return to materialize, nor is there any guarantee that an individual player will receive that amount back. This is because RTP represents an average calculated over a very large number of plays, while actual results can vary significantly. Still, it’s a useful indicator for comparing the different options available at an online casino.
RTP by game type
Different types of casino games have different RTP percentages. Many offer theoretical returns above 90%, although the exact figure depends on the game and its rules. The standouts are blackjack and video poker, which reach roughly 99.5% in return.
In blackjack, that applies to tables that pay 3 to 2 and to players who follow basic strategy. In video poker, the number applies to versions such as 9/6 Jacks or Better, played with optimal strategy.
The difference between roulette versions
European roulette has a theoretical RTP of approximately 97.30%, while the American version comes in at about 94.74%. This difference is largely due to the number of pockets on each wheel. European roulette has 37 pockets, numbered from 0 to 36, while American roulette has 38, including both a single zero and a double zero. As a result, the house edge is higher in American roulette, reducing the player's theoretical return.
Other factors to consider
Of course, visual elements attract plenty of attention from different types of players. This is one of the reasons why console games that make the most of these features, such as those on the PlayStation 5, tend to stand out. When it comes to online casino games, though, it’s worth looking beyond the graphics and sound effects, and even beyond RTP itself.
Volatility
Among the most important factors to analyze is volatility. This characteristic helps explain how prizes are distributed over the course of the rounds. High-volatility games tend to offer larger payouts, but these wins generally occur less frequently. Low-volatility games, on the other hand, usually hand out more prizes of smaller value.
Extra game features
To keep players engaged and attract new audiences, major casino game developers continue to introduce innovative features. Titles from developers such as NetEnt and Pragmatic Play, for example, feature avalanche mechanics. This feature removes winning symbols from the screen and replaces them with new ones, allowing players to land multiple wins in a single round.
Casino reliability
Finally, before you create a new account and choose your next games based on RTP, make sure you’re playing at a regulated casino, so that these and other factors actually matter on your journey.
While bodies like the UKGC and MGA are among the leading names in the industry, there are several well-regarded licensing authorities around the world. The same goes for auditing labs such as eCOGRA and iTech Labs.
RTP at the top of the list
By now, it's clear that online casino games are more complex than they might appear at first glance. Still, the main reason RTP is a decisive factor when choosing a new game is that the one that makes it clearest. Even though it promises no winnings, it’s the factor that tells you the most before you make your decision.
Leave a Comment