One of the most essential things a player needs to consider when playing an online slot is its return to player, commonly known as RTP. This rate informs a player of how much of their stake they are likely to see returned from a game over a period of time, as well as the percentage of money a casino will probably win. In this guide to RTP, Gambling Zone explores how RTP impacts a player, rules and regulations around RTP, and more.
What is RTP?
RTP stands for return to player. It is a theoretical number displayed as a percentage that highlights the amount of money a player is likely to see returned from their stake when a game is played over a period of time. For example, if a game has a 96.5% RTP, a player should see a rough return of around £96.50 of their original stake from every £100 placed. However, this is not an exact science and players should be cautious of this.
Why is RTP important?
Knowing a game’s RTP is essential for a player for a number of reasons. First of all, it provides transparency over the house edge in a game. For example, in a game where the RTP is 96%, the house edge is 4%. Secondly, having this information can also help a player decide whether they want to play or not. Games with higher RTPs are going to be more attractive to players as they suggest they are going to lose less money over an extended playing period.
How is RTP calculated?
Calculating RTPs is extremely difficult, as there is no exact guarantee of how many times a game will pay out. To calculate them, developers will use a random number generator (RNG) to simulate thousands of outcomes. They will then analyse the results to provide the game’s RTP.
Can online casinos change the RTP of the games?
RTPs were traditionally set by the game developer, but some developers are now providing casinos with an RTP range or releasing multiple versions of a game, allowing the casinos to choose which one to use. However, when you log into a game, you can always check the RTP in the paytable. Casinos cannot alter this once it is live, and they can not change a game while it is in progress.
Do some online casinos show a wrong RTP?
If you ever see the wrong RTP on a casino, there is a strong chance this is an admin era and that something has not been updated. Casinos are legally obliged to show the correct RTP to their customers and would face serious consequences from their licensing authority if they did not. If you are ever in doubt as to a game’s RTP, reach out to the operator immediately to address the issue. Furthermore, if you believe that a casino has deliberately tampered with an RTP, then you should seek to alert the authority responsible for providing them with their license.
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The online casino RTP regulation
Getting the RTP correct is essential for a casino, as it ensures transparency and fairness for players. There are several pieces of regulation in place to ensure RTP is handled correctly. Let’s take a look at exactly how RTP and casinos are regulated.
How are online casinos regulated?
Online casinos are regulated by licensing authorities. In the UK, all casinos need to have a license from the United Kingdom Gambling Commission (UKGC) to be able to provide players with their services. Other notable regulators include the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) and the Gibraltar Gambling Commission.
These licenses are only rewarded if a casino meets the operator’s standards. The first thing you should do when you visit a new casino is check its licensing information is correct. This is typically displayed at the bottom of the homepage.
How RTP is Monitored and Enforced?
Random number generators are used to ensure the fairness of every spin of the reels while licensing bodies will also monitor the use of these closely to ensure operators are maintaining fair gameplay standards.
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Final Thoughts
RTP is one of the most important aspects of online casino play, especially when it comes to fairness. It is important, however, that players remember that RTP is not a guarantee of wins. In fact, it is quite the opposite, highlighting how much you are likely to lose to the casino over a period of time. Players should never approach any casino game believing they are guaranteed a win, and should always practise responsible gambling techniques.
