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Ever get that feeling that some casino games just seem to drain your funds faster than others? Well, you might not be imagining things.
There’s this thing called game Return to Player (RTP) rate which you might want to look into before placing your bets. This percentage gives you an idea of whether a casino game can give you a significant win in the long run.
So What Is RTP?
RTP is a percentage that lets you know how much of all bet money is returned to players over time.
For example, a slot machine with a 95% RTP means that, theoretically, for every $100 wagered on that machine, $95 will be returned to players as winnings. Then the remaining $5 is the casino's profit (house edge).
But always keep in mind that RTP is an average that's based on thousands and thousands of spins or game rounds.
That said, you won't necessarily get 95% of your money back every time you play because anything can happen within the rounds you're playing (which can only be a few).
As always, when it comes to gambling, the results of a game you're playing are independent of each other. So, you could hit the jackpot or have a string of bad luck anytime, regardless of the RTP of a game.
Why RTP Matters to Casino Players
So why even think about checking the RTP of a game before playing it? Well, over time, it might affect your chances of winning.
Generally, games with higher RTP have a lower house edge. That's why playing high RTP games can give you a better chance of winning in the long run. However, payout-wise, you might win more often but nothing too significant. This is why high RTP games may be more suited for casual players.
Meanwhile, games with low RTP typically have a larger house edge. They might be more in favor of the casino operator. Does that mean you should avoid them?
Well, it's all up to your risk tolerance. Some casino players prefer low RTP games because they usually can provide a larger payoff despite the low odds.
But remember that RTP isn't everything. There are still other factors to consider when choosing a casino game including mechanics, features, and volatility. Ask yourself: Are you feeling risky or reserved? Best to consider those before you immerse in a casino game.
RTP in Different Types of Casino Games
When you're ready to step into an online casino to start and place your bets, know that different types of casino games have varying RTPs:
- Slots: RTP in slots typically ranges from 90% to 98%. Progressive jackpot slots often have lower RTPs as hitting the winning combination to get the pot prize can be super rare.
- Blackjack: This is known for its high RTP. Some blackjack varieties even have 99% of RTP as they depend on your betting strategy.
- Roulette: For this, European roulette has a higher RTP (around 97.3%) because American roulette (with an RTP of around 94.7%) has extra pockets or double zeroes.
Luckily, you wouldn't have a hard time finding the RTP of a game. Most reputable online casinos list such info for each game either within the game's information section, in the help files, or sometimes directly on the game's thumbnail.
If you're having trouble finding it, a quick search online or contacting customer support should do the trick. Remember, transparency about RTP is a good sign of a trustworthy casino
Common Misconceptions About RTP
RTP, while helpful, is often misunderstood. Let's clear up a few common myths:
- RTP guarantees short-term winnings: Nope, RTP is a long-term average. You could win or lose in the short term, regardless of the percentage.
- High RTP games always pay out more: This could be true, but volatility also plays a role in this. A high RTP game could have infrequent but large payouts, while a lower RTP game might have frequent small wins.
- All games of the same type have the same RTP: Different versions or providers might offer slightly different RTPs for the same game type.
- RTP is the only factor to consider: Enjoyment, features, and personal preferences also matter. Don't just chase the highest RTP.
So, next time you're ready to spin those reels or hit the virtual felt, remember: RTP matters. Make it a part of your strategy, and play smart. You won’t have to do much digging anyway to figure out a game’s payout percentage, so always take a few minutes to check this info.
