What is RTP and why understand it

RTP is one of the top metrics that every player has to look at before making a bid. But what does it really mean, how to interpret it correctly and why shouldn't you wait for an instant result?

Let's figure it out in detail:

• What is RTP and how it is calculated
• How it affects the chance of winning
• Where to watch RTP
• Why RTP ≠ Guaranteed Return
• What is different from volatility and variance

What RTP means

RTP (Return to Player) is a "return to player." It shows what percentage of bets a slot or game theoretically returns to players in the form of wins over a long distance.


How is RTP considered?

RTP is a mathematically calculated metric based on millions of spin simulations. Its formula is:

• ```
• RTP = (Total Winnings/Total Bets) × 100%
• ```

Important: RTP does not take into account specific players, but refers to the entire mass of bets made by all users over a long period.

RTP Range - Bad to Excellent

RTP (%)	Interpretation
98% +	Very high (rare)
96% -97.99%	Good Slot Standard
94% -95.99%	Below average, low-key RTP
< 94%	Low RTP is often unprofitable to play

A good RTP is considered a value of 96% or higher.

Why is RTP not a win guarantee?

Many players mistakenly think RTP works as a return in a particular session. Actually:

• RTP doesn't say exactly when wins will happen
• RTP operates at a distance of thousands, or even millions of backs
• RTP doesn't mean you'll definitely get 96% back

Example:

• You play 100 backs of 1 €. With an RTP of 96%, this does not mean that you will definitely get 96 € back. Maybe 20 €, maybe 300 €. It all depends on volatility.

How RTP relates to volatility

Parameter	What does
RTP	Slot Lifetime Average Return%
Volatility	Frequency and size of winnings

Examples:

• High RTP + high volatility - rare but big wins
• High RTP + low volatility - frequent but small wins
• Low RTP - in any case, the game is potentially less profitable

Where to look for RTP?

Ways to find RTP of a specific game:

• 1. On the official website of the provider (for example, Pragmatic Play, NetEnt, Play 'n GO)
• 2. In the information section of the slot (icon "i" or "?" in the game interface)
• 3. On specialized portals and aggregators (SlotCatalog, AskGamblers, etc.)
• 4. In reviews from casinos or gaming bloggers

Important: Some casinos can run the same game with different RTPs (for example, 94% or 96%). Check the version!

How to use RTP in practice

1. Compare games before a bet

Choose slots with RTP at least 96%, especially if you are playing for real money.

2. Consider volatility

If RTP is high, but you suffer long losses - a high volatility slot, perhaps. This is normal, you just need more bankroll and patience.

3. Use vager bonuses wisely

To win back bonuses, choose slots with high RTP and medium volatility - to do more revolutions and get closer to winning back faster.

FAQ

Is RTP the same in demos and for real money?
Not always. Some providers use fixed RTP in the demo, but before the final game, it is better to check RTP at a specific casino.

Can casinos reduce RTP?
Yes, if the provider offers multiple versions of the same slot. The casino can choose which version to put - with RTP 96%, 94%, and sometimes even 92%.

Are there slots with RTP above 98%?
Very rare. Examples: Ugga Bugga (99.07%), Mega Joker (up to 99%) - but they may have special conditions or low volatility.

Conclusion

RTP is an important tool in the player's arsenal, allowing you to understand how profitable a game over a long distance is. But this is not a magical guarantee of return.

To play effectively:

• Compare RTP between slots
• Consider both volatility and game structure
• Always check RTP conditions in a particular casino
• Don't forget that fun is more important than math

See also: "How to read the rating," "What is slot volatility," "The most generous machines."