What RTP is and how it affects player payouts

RTP (Return to Player) is a mathematical metric reflecting the percentage of all bets that a slot or other gambling returns to players in the form of long-distance winnings. It is set by the game developer and fixed in the code, remaining unchanged with any casino branding.

For example, an RTP of 96% means that on average, out of every 100 AUD bets, 96 AUD will be returned to players, and the remaining 4 AUD will be casino profits.

1. How RTP is calculated

RTP is the result of mathematical modeling and simulations of millions of spins. Formula:

• (Sum of all payments ÷ Sum of all bets) × 100%

In a real game, one player can get both less than and more than a specified percentage because RTP runs at a statistical distance rather than within a single session.

2. Difference between theoretical and actual RTP

Theoretical RTP is the value declared by the developer.
Actual RTP is the percentage of payouts for a specific period in a real casino, which may differ from the theoretical due to chance.

3. Impact of RTP on the game

High RTP (97% and above) reduces the mathematical advantage of the casino, making the game more profitable for the player in the long term.
Low RTP (below 94%) increases the risk of losses and is suitable only when playing for the sake of emotions or bonus functions.
At a short distance, RTP does not guarantee a win - you can both quickly win and merge a bankroll.

4. RTP and variance (volatility)

RTP shows the total return percentage, but does not take into account the frequency and magnitude of payouts.

High volatility: Rare but big wins.
Low volatility: Frequent but small payouts.

Two slots with the same RTP can give fundamentally different gaming experiences due to differences in variance.

5. Can RTP be used to select a game

Yes, experienced players often choose slots with RTP of 96% or higher. However, other factors are important to consider: bonus mechanics, jackpots, betting limits, volatility.

Conclusion:

• RTP is a key benchmark for assessing the game's long-term profitability. It helps to understand how much on average will return a slot at a distance, but does not predict the specific outcome of an individual spin. When choosing a slot with high RTP, the player reduces the mathematical advantage of the casino, but still must take into account the luck factor and his own strategy.