How a Casino Can Understate RTP and How to Find It Out: Protecting Your Interests When Playing

One of the important factors when choosing an online slot is its RTP (Return to Player) - the percentage of funds returned to the player. This indicator directly affects the chances of winning, and the higher it is, the more profitable the game is considered for the player. However, in some cases, casinos may underestimate RTP in their slots, making it less likely for players to win. In this article, we'll show you how casinos can manipulate RTP, what it means for players and how to check if RTP is underestimated in your chosen slots.

How can a casino understate RTP?

1. Using provider settings for low RTP regions:

Some casinos may use regional settings for games from providers. For example, games that are available in certain countries or regions may have lower RTP compared to the same slots available in other countries. This is particularly common in countries with lower gambling regulation requirements, where casinos can afford to offer games with lower returns.

2. Changing RTP through slot settings:

In some cases, slots may offer variable RTP, where depending on the state of the game or the volume of bets, the casino may change this indicator. This is done in order to increase their margin and reduce the chances of large winnings for players. This usually happens in slots with bonus rounds or tiered progressive jackpots, where RTP can be higher when certain features are activated.

3. Using older versions of lower RTP slots:

Some online casinos use older versions of slots that have low RTP values, rather than upgrading them to more modern versions with better return rates. Such slots may be less profitable for players, but casinos make large profits from players who are unfamiliar with the differences between the old and new versions of the game.

4. Distortion of statistics and marketing:

Some casinos may advertise games with attractive RTP in their marketing materials, but in fact offer modified versions of these slots with understated RTP. This is done in order to attract players who expect a high return, but actually play in a slot with less chance of winning.

How do I know if RTP is too low in a slot?

1. Checking information from the provider:

When choosing a slot, the first thing to do is to check the official RTP information. Quality providers such as NetEnt, Microgaming, Pragmatic Play provide accurate RTP information for each slot. If the casino or slot does not indicate this indicator, this should already alert. It is also worth checking if the RTP information is the same on the provider's website and in the casino itself.

2. Use of third-party resources:

Resources such as Casino Guru, AskGamblers, or SlotsUp regularly publish up-to-date RTP information for most popular slots. These sites independently verify and provide accurate information about the game settings in various casinos. Check out the slot reviews and make sure RTP is as stated on the official website.

3. Game demos and testing:

Before playing for real money, it is recommended to try the demo version of the slot. This will allow you to better understand how the game works, how often wins occur and whether the real return matches the stated RTP. If a game with a demo version differs significantly from the expected return, this can be a signal of underestimated RTP.

4. Check casino license documents:

Responsible and licensed casinos such as the UK Gambling Commission, Malta Gaming Authority and other regulators regularly audit RTP slots. If the casino has licenses from reputable authorities, this ensures that the games in it are verified and their RTP meets the stated values. You can check the information about the casino's license on its website and confirm that it is regulated by the relevant authorities.

5. Forums and player reviews:

Forums and player communities can be a great source of information about the integrity of casinos and their slots. Players often share experiences, discuss various games, and report instances where RTP has been underreported. Read reviews and be attentive to signals from other users who may have encountered such a problem.

Advantages and disadvantages of low RTP slots

Advantages:

1. Fewer risks for casinos:

By understating RTP, casinos increase their margins and provide themselves with large profits. This reduces the risks for them, especially in the long term.

2. More chances for high jackpots for players:

Some low RTP games may include progressive jackpots, which attract players looking for a big win. However, such games require large bets and can offer low RTP in the base game.

Disadvantages:

1. Lower odds of winning for players:

By understating RTP, casinos actually reduce a player's chances of profit. This can cause players to lose money faster, especially if they are not aware of the under-reported RTP.

2. Less transparency:

Some casinos can manipulate RTP and hide this information from players, which reduces trust in the platform and raises doubts about the integrity of the game.

Conclusion

Understated RTP is a strategy that some casinos can use to increase their profits at the expense of players. To avoid such situations, it is important to check the RTP slots through official sources and third-party resources. Use demos, read reviews and follow licensed casinos to play games with fair and high RTP. Your chances of playing well and making a profit will depend on how closely you approach game selection.