RTP is an acronym for the phrase “Return to Player.” RTP is the percentage of wagers a game pays back to players over time. In other words, the RTP is the average amount of money a player can expect to win back from their bets.
For example, if a game has an RTP of 90%, players can expect to get back 90% of the total amount of money they wager for a gaming period. This means that if you wager $100 for the game with 90% RTP, you should expect to get $90 back on average over the long run, although a single session can end well above or below that.
You can calculate RTP on your own by following these simple steps:
- Step 1: Find the total amount of money wagered on the game over a period.
- Step 2: Find the total amount of money returned to players as winnings during the same period.
- Step 3: Divide the total amount returned to players by the total amount wagered.
- Step 4: Multiply the result by 100 to express it as a percentage.
Why are there games with low RTPs and why would anyone play them?
Casinos are like marketplaces with various offerings, and different games have different RTPs. It’s normal to want to get as much as you can from the money you wager, but not all games will offer high RTPs, and some players don’t mind. Here’s why some people will still choose games with low RTP:
Game Preference
Some players enjoy the gameplay, theme, or features of a particular game, regardless of its RTP. These kinds of players prioritize entertainment over the potential for higher payouts.
Risk Tolerance
Games with low RTP often have higher volatility, meaning players have a higher chance for big wins. Some players prefer to take the risk of lower overall returns for the opportunity to hit a big jackpot.
Bonus Features
Games with lower RTPs often compensate players by offering enticing bonus features that create a more thrilling and rewarding experience for players. This way, players can overlook a low RTP and enjoy the game’s other features.
Where do I find the RTP of a game?
Our team of experts has outlined the possible ways players can find the RTP of a game. They include:
Game Information Section
Many reputable slot machines provide information about their RTP on the game. All you need to do is look for the game’s help or information section to see its RTP.
Game Provider’s Page
You can visit the website or page of the game’s provider. Game providers usually have the information of their game’s RTP on their website.
Jurisdiction Reports
Apart from giving information of the legality of gambling in your region, regulatory bodies often publish jurisdiction reports that include information on various games’ RTPs. This is a reliable source of RTP data.
Online Resources
Websites are dedicated to providing information about casino games, including their RTP. This is something we’re proud to do ourselves here at BitcoinCasinos.com.
Does RTP really matter?
As mentioned in this introduction, the more skilled you get in gambling, the more you realise the importance of RTP. While its importance can vary from player to player, there are quite a number of reasons RTP is important. These include:
Profit Indicator
From its definition, you already know that RTP indicates the percentage of wagered money that a game pays back to players over time. So, a high RTP already hints that players have a better chance of winning more money back.
Gaming Strategy
RTP is essential to gamers who play regularly, as a higher RTP may influence their choice of games. Players often seek games with better payout percentages.
Streamlines Gaming Preference
Since the RTP helps traders decode the money they will get back from a game, they can decide which games to settle for and which to avoid. This helps you define your trading preference and what games fit in it.
Please note that the level of RTP importance is an individual decision and depends on your goals, strategies, and preferences. While a higher RTP offers better long-term chances of winning, you can still choose a game for the experience and entertainment.
Online Slots with High RTP’s
Our team of experts has surveyed the slot world and picked out popular online slots with RTPs above the common 96% mark. Remember that some games are released in several RTP versions and the casino chooses which one to offer, so always check the figure in the game’s help screen. Here are the online slots with high RTPs.
Wanted Dead or a Wild
This slot game takes you on a gripping journey through dusty saloons, rugged landscapes, and unexpected showdowns. With an RTP of 96.38%, this game offers generous rewards to players who dare to face the challenges of the frontier.
Gate of Olympus
Taking place in the world of ancient Greek mythology, this slot game carries you back to an era where you can feast alongside the gods. Featuring an RTP of 96.50%, the Gate of Olympus showers players with divine rewards.
Deadly 5
This thrilling slot game immerses players in a realm of espionage, where secret agents and cunning villains reign supreme. With an RTP of 96.39%, Deadly 5 delivers not only heart-pounding action but also substantial rewards.
Book of Golden Sands
This slot game takes players on an archaeological expedition to unravel the secrets of a long-lost civilization. With an RTP of 96.46%, this game promises bountiful rewards for players who can decode the enigmatic symbols of the golden book.
Slots Variance Explained
Like RTP, “variance” is another popular term in online casinos. So, let’s get into the details about variance.
Variance, also known as volatility, is the level of risk associated with a game. It determines how often and how much a slot game pays out. There are three types of variance: Low Variance, High Variance, and Medium Variance.
Low Variance
Low-variance tends to have more frequent but smaller wins. These games provide a steady stream of smaller payouts, offering a smoother and more consistent gaming experience. This variance suits players who prefer longer gaming sessions and smaller, more frequent wins.
High Variance
High variance offers less frequent but larger wins. These games have the potential for significant payouts and a higher risk of loss. High variance is often preferred by players who want the excitement of big wins and can tolerate longer periods of dry spells.
Medium Variance
As the name implies, this variance balances the extremes of Low Variance and High Variance. With this variance, players stand a chance to win a big jackpot while they still get small paybacks over time.
Although it is equally important, variance does not directly affect the RTP of a game. While high RTP is generally desirable, the choice of a low, medium, or high variance is solely up to you. You should, however, consider your risk tolerance, gaming style, and experience before choosing a game variance.
How do you know what the variance of a game is?
Like we did with RTP, we have outlined how you can know a game’s variance. These include:
Theoretical Calculation
In some cases, you can calculate the variance of a game mathematically based on its rules and probabilities. This approach requires a good understanding of probability theory and the game mechanics. You can determine the game’s variance by analyzing the possible outcomes and their associated probabilities.
Simulation
Should you have a simulator or software capable of simulating the game, you can run the game through several iterations and log the results. Analyzing the distribution of these results allows you to estimate the game’s variance. When the game involves complex rules or a large number of possible outcomes, this method works best.
Statistical Analysis
If you can access historical data or a large sample of game results, you can use statistical analysis techniques to estimate the variance. This involves calculating sample variances, conducting hypothesis tests, or fitting a probability distribution to the data.
If these methods seem too technical for you, your go-to solution is using reliable resources such as game guides, forums, or expert opinions. These sources provide insights and analysis on the variance of popular games. These will help you understand what to expect regarding risk and potential outcomes.
Examples of High and Low Variance Games
You already know the types of variance, so we are taking it further to show you games with high & low variance games from some of our top reviewed casinos.
High Variance Games
These include:
5 Lions
This is a high-variance slot game by Pragmatic Play. The Chinese zodiac inspires the game. With stunning visuals and an enchanting soundtrack, 5 Lions transports players to a world of fortune.
As a high-variance game, it offers players the potential for significant wins, albeit less frequently. The game features various special symbols and bonus rounds that can boost your chances of hitting the jackpot.
Twin Diamond Xmas
Developed by Red Rake Gaming, Twin Diamond Xmas is a high-variance slot game that captures the festive spirit of Christmas. With its vibrant graphics and cheerful soundtrack, this game immerses players in a world of holiday bliss. As a high-variance game, Twin Diamond Xmas offers players the potential for substantial wins but with a higher level of risk.
The game features classic slot symbols like diamonds, bells, and lucky sevens combined with Christmas-themed elements.
Gates of Olympus
Developed by Pragmatic Play, Gates of Olympus is another high-variance slot game that transports players to the times of ancient Greek mythology. With its stunning visuals and epic soundtrack, this game offers a truly immersive experience. As a high-variance game, Gates of Olympus provides the potential for massive wins, but they may occur less frequently.
The game features a unique grid layout and a cascading reel mechanism, where winning symbols disappear, and new ones take their place.
Floating Dragon
This slot game was developed by Pragmatic Play. Inspired by Asian culture, this game takes players on a captivating journey through an ancient floating temple. Floating Dragon creates a truly immersive gaming experience with its beautifully designed symbols and atmospheric soundtrack.
As a high-variance game, it offers the potential for significant wins but with a higher level of risk. The game features a unique reel set and various special symbols that can trigger bonus rounds and free spins.
Low Variance Games
These games include:
Starburst
This game was developed by NetEnt. This popular game provides players with a consistent stream of small wins, making it a favorite among casual players and those seeking a straightforward gameplay experience. The simplicity of Starburst’s mechanics allows players to easily understand and engage with the game.
With its vibrant colors and dazzling jewels, Starburst offers a visually appealing experience that captivates players from the first spin.
Gonzo’s Quest
You can embark on an exciting adventure with Gonzo’s Quest, a thrilling slot game developed by NetEnt. This adventure-themed game boasts a low variance, ensuring that players can enjoy regular, smaller wins throughout their gameplay.
What sets Gonzo’s Quest apart is its innovative cascading reel feature, where winning symbols explode, and new ones fall into place, potentially creating additional winning combinations. This unique mechanic adds extra excitement and anticipation to the game, keeping players engaged and entertained as they accompany Gonzo on his quest for treasure.
Blood Suckers
Sink your teeth into the thrilling world of Blood Suckers, a captivating slot game developed by NetEnt. This game offers a low-variance experience, guaranteeing a steady flow of smaller wins. However, what truly sets Blood Suckers apart is its high RTP which ensures that players have a greater chance of receiving a significant portion of their wagers back over time.
Blood Suckers is also renowned for its bonus feature, which holds the potential for substantial payouts.
How to Choose a Good RTP and Variance Combination
You must consider your gaming style, budget, and risk tolerance to choose a game with good RTP and variance. Once you have considered these factors, follow these guidelines:
Low Variance and Average RTP
If you’re a beginner or a casual gamer with a smaller budget, look for games with low variance and average RTP. These games offer more frequent but smaller payouts, allowing your bankroll to last longer.
High Variance and Strong Bankroll
If you have a strong bankroll and are comfortable with higher risk, you will enjoy playing high-variance games. These games have the potential for massive wins. But please note that high variance has a high risk and can immediately deplete your bankroll if things go south.
In-between(ers)
Players who sit between Low Variance and Average RTP and High Variance and Strong Bankroll may prefer games offering medium variance and RTP. Such titles strike a balance between regular wins and the chance of bigger payouts.
Please remember that a good combination of RTP and variance will help you make informed gaming decisions. Ensure to find the combination that suits your preference and gaming style.
Tips to Make RTP and Variance Count in Your Favor
We know you can’t wait to get on the next game, so we have outlined tips that help you use RTP and variance to choose games that suit you. Check out these tips:
Understand the Game
Before playing a game, take the time to understand the terms and conditions of its RTP and variance. Read the rules, check the paytable, withdrawal rules and research the game’s characteristics. This will help you know if it you can get instant withdrawal and payout and also give you an idea of what volatility to expect.
Play Free or Demo Games
Many online casinos offer free or demo versions of the games on their platform. Take advantage of these opportunities to test out different games and to understand the characteristics of the games, particularly their variance and RTP. This will help you determine which games suit your preferences and gaming style within a reasonable time.
Define Your Budget
Set a budget for your Bitcoin betting activities and stick to it. You can ensure this by selecting a game that is within your budget and risk tolerance. Remember to always play within your means. This is one tip to always remember this RTP meaning slots review.
Balance Risk and Reward
Consider your risk tolerance alongside the excitement and profit you desire. Remember that games with high offer the potential for big wins, but they also come with higher risk and the potential for longer dry spells. On the other hand, low-variance games provide more frequent wins but with smaller payouts.
Read Game Reviews and Recommendations
Ever heard the phrase “reviews don’t lie,” this is a good time to take that phrase to heart. Look for reliable sources that provide information and recommendations on games with favorable RTP and variance combinations.
Online casino forums, review websites like us here at BitcoinCasinos.com, and player communities offer insights and recommendations based on their experiences. This will save you time and money.
Take Advantage of Bonuses and Promotions
Many online casinos often offer bonuses and promotions that can boost your bankroll. From welcome bonuses to promotions cashback, there is so much you can do to increase your bankroll. Take advantage of these offers to extend your gameplay and potentially increase your chances of winning.
RTP and House Edge: The Maths in Practice
RTP and house edge are two sides of the same number. The house edge is simply 100% minus the RTP. A slot with 96% RTP has a 4% house edge, and a game with 99% RTP has a 1% house edge.
The important point is that RTP applies to every bet you place, not to the money you deposit. Say you deposit $100 and spin a 96% RTP slot at $1 a spin. After 500 spins you have wagered $500 in total, so the expected cost is about $20 (4% of $500), even though you only deposited $100. Wins along the way are recycled into new bets, which is why the total amount wagered grows much faster than your deposit.
This also shows why a few percent matter. On the same $500 of spins, a 94% RTP slot has an expected cost of about $30, while a 97% RTP slot costs about $15. Over a long session, picking the higher RTP version can halve the expected cost of your play.
Table games follow the same logic. European roulette has a single zero among 37 pockets, giving a house edge of 1/37, or 2.70%, and an RTP of 97.30%. American roulette adds a double zero, so the edge rises to 2/38, or 5.26%. The bets pay the same on both wheels, so the extra pocket is pure advantage for the house.
Why Your Results Can Differ From the RTP
RTP is a long-run average calculated over millions of rounds. In a single session, results can be far from it in either direction, and that is where variance comes in. A low-variance slot tends to keep your balance close to the expected path, while a high-variance slot can leave you well below it for a long time and then jump far above it with one big win.
Many slots also hold back part of their RTP for bonus features and rare top prizes. If a slot pays a large share of its return through a free spins round that triggers on average once every few hundred spins, a short session without the feature will usually return much less than the stated RTP. That is normal behaviour for the game, not a sign that anything is wrong.
At licensed casinos, games are tested by independent labs to confirm they pay out in line with their stated RTP over the long run, and regulators check that the published figures are accurate.
Final thoughts
For fans of online casinos, RTP and variance carry a great deal of insight into how gaming works. Getting to know these terms is essential if you wish to understand what goes on behind casino games, particularly slots. We are happy to have clarified the meaning of RTP slots and related ideas that often overshadow variance.
With this knowledge, you can pick games that match your budget and the kind of play you enjoy, whether that is steady low-variance sessions or the chance of a big high-variance win. Just make sure to do your research beforehand, set a budget and enjoy the game. Happy gaming!
Online casino games are for adults only: 18+, or 21+ where local law says so. Set a budget before you play, and if gambling stops being fun, free and confidential support is available from Gambling Therapy at gamblingtherapy.org.
References
- UK Gambling Commission, public register of gambling businesses: gamblingcommission.gov.uk/public-register
- Malta Gaming Authority, licensee register: mga.org.mt/licensee-hub/licensee-register
- Gambling Therapy, free international support: gamblingtherapy.org
FAQ
Is it better to have higher variance?
Well, this depends on your preferences and risk tolerance. While higher variance increases a player's potential for larger payouts, its tendency to swing in wins and losses is just as high. This means you stand a higher risk of losing money more quickly.
Is higher or lower RTP better?
In general, a higher RTP is considered better. A higher RTP means, on average, a larger percentage of the total bets placed on a game will be returned to the players as winnings over time. It indicates a higher potential for players to win back their wagers.
What is RTP value?
RTP often googled as RTP meaning gambling. is the expected percentage of wagers that a game will return to the player in the long run. The RTP formula is: (The amount of money returned to players ÷ the amount of money wagered by players) X 100
