Return to player (also known as RTP) in gambling is a percentage value that represents the average amount of money that a player can expect to win back from their bets over time in a particular casino game. It is a statistical measurement used to indicate the potential payout of a game.
For example, if a game has an RTP of 94%, it means that, on average, players can expect to receive back $94 for every $100 they wager on that game over an extended period.
(It’s important to note that RTP is based on long-term calculations and doesn’t guarantee that every player will win back exactly that percentage.)
RTP is typically calculated by analyzing the game’s mathematical probabilities, including factors such as the game’s rules, payouts, and random number generators. It serves as a general guideline for players to understand the potential returns they might receive when playing a specific game.
Online casinos often provide RTP information for their games to help players make informed decisions about which games to play based on their preferences and risk tolerance. Simply put– if you think a casino is trying to hide its RTP figures or you’re having a ton of trouble finding them, ditch it and play our tested best online casinos.
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Online Slots RTP
Now let’s get to the most ubiquitous and popular casino games– the slots. Let’s consider a specific example of the math behind RTP in the context of online slots. For this example, let’s assume we have a slot machine with the following characteristics:
- Total bets made by players: $1,000,000
- Total payouts awarded by the slot machine: $950,000
To calculate the RTP, we can use the following formula:
RTP = (Total Payouts / Total Bets) * 100
Plugging the values into the formula, we get:
RTP = ($950,000 / $1,000,000) * 100
RTP = 0.95 * 100
RTP = 95%
In this specific example, the RTP of the slot machine is 95%. This means that, on average, for every $1 wagered on the slot machine, players can expect to win back $0.95 over an extended period. It’s important to note that the RTP is calculated based on the overall performance of the slot machine and does not guarantee individual results for any specific player.
This little fact about online slots is also why they’re so popular– you tend not to lose the whole kitty over time, so people will continue to play. (Gamble responsibly, of course!)
The RTP of online slots can vary significantly between different games and providers. Some slots may have higher RTPs, such as 96% or above, while others may have lower RTPs, such as 92% or lower. It’s always a good idea to check the RTP information provided by the game or the online casino to understand the potential returns of a specific slot machine before playing.
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Blackjack RTP
One of the simplest-to-understand casino games, but the hardest to master, is blackjack.
Let’s consider a specific example of the math behind RTP in the context of online blackjack. In this example, we’ll focus on the classic version of blackjack played with a single deck of cards.
In blackjack, the RTP can vary depending on several factors such as the specific blackjack rules of the game, the player’s blackjack strategy, and the number of decks used. For simplicity, let’s assume the following rules and conditions:
- Single deck of cards
- Dealer stands on all 17s
- Blackjack pays 3 to 2
- Player can double down on any two cards
- Player can split pairs
Using these rules, the RTP can be calculated based on the player’s strategy, assuming optimal play. However, since the optimal strategy for blackjack is quite complex, I’ll provide an example using a simplified strategy.
Let’s assume the player follows a simplified strategy where they always stand on a hard total of 17 or higher, always hit on a hard total of 11 or lower, and always stand on a soft total of 19 or higher.
Under these simplified strategy assumptions, the RTP for this specific blackjack game can be estimated to be around 99.5%. This means that, on average, players can expect to win back $99.50 for every $100 they wager over time.
It’s important to note that this RTP estimate assumes perfect play according to the simplified strategy. In reality, player decisions and deviations from the optimal strategy can impact the actual RTP experienced.
Keep in mind that different variations of blackjack or different sets of rules can yield different RTP values. Additionally, the number of decks used can also affect the RTP, with games using fewer decks generally offering slightly better odds for the player.
Roulette RTP
Made famous by James Bond, roulette is a straightforward casino game, but certainly not simple.
In this explanation, we’ll focus on European roulette, which has 37 pockets numbered from 0 to 36.
Single Number Bet RTP
In European roulette, if you place a bet on a specific number, your odds of winning are 1 in 37, as there is one winning number out of 37 possible outcomes. The payout for a winning bet on a single number is typically 35 to 1.
To calculate the RTP for this bet, we can use the following formula:
RTP = (Payout * Probability of Winning) – (Loss * Probability of Losing)
In this roulette example:
- Payout = 35 (the payout for winning a single number bet)
- Probability of Winning = 1/37 (since there is one winning number out of 37 possible outcomes)
- Loss = 1 (the amount wagered)
- Probability of Losing = 36/37 (since there are 36 losing numbers out of 37 possible outcomes)
Plugging these values into the formula, we get:
RTP = (35 * (1/37)) – (1 * (36/37))
RTP = 0.97297 – 0.97297
RTP = 0
In this specific example, the RTP for a single number bet in European roulette is 0, indicating that, on average, players can expect to lose their entire wager over time. This is because the payout for winning is less than the probability of losing.
Think of it kind of like a forecast– an RTP of 0 indicates that you’re not likely to hold on to your money over time. Gambling is all about having fun and minimizing risk– there are no guarantees of winning, but there is a surefire way to lose, and that’s by expecting to make money off of gambling. But responsibly gambling can be thrilling, so checking RTP values (and knowing that single number bets are a wash in roulette) can keep you in the game that much longer.
It’s important to note that the RTP of a game can vary depending on the specific bets and rules involved. Different types of bets in roulette, such as even/odd or red/black, will have different probabilities and payouts, leading to different RTP values.
Bet on Red or Black RTP
Now, let’s consider an example of the math behind RTP when a player bets on red or black in roulette.
In European roulette, there are 18 red numbers and 18 black numbers, with the remaining pocket being the green 0. This means that there are 18 winning outcomes and 19 losing outcomes when betting on red or black.
Assuming a player bets $1 on red or black, the payout for a winning bet is typically 1 to 1, meaning the player would win an additional $1 if their bet is successful.
To calculate the RTP for this bet, we can use the following formula:
RTP = (Payout * Probability of Winning) – (Loss * Probability of Losing)
In this case:
- Payout = 1 (the payout for winning a red or black bet)
- Probability of Winning = 18/37 (since there are 18 winning outcomes out of 37 possible outcomes)
- Loss = 1 (the amount wagered)
- Probability of Losing = 19/37 (since there are 19 losing outcomes out of 37 possible outcomes)
Plugging these values into the formula, we get:
RTP = (1 * (18/37)) – (1 * (19/37))
RTP = 0.48649 – 0.51351
RTP = -0.02702
In this specific example, the RTP for a red or black bet in European roulette is -0.02702, which indicates that, on average, players can expect to lose about 2.7% of their wager over time. This means that the house has a slight edge in this particular bet, as the RTP is less than 0.
It’s important to note that the RTP can vary depending on the specific rules of the game and the type of roulette being played. Additionally, the RTP may differ in American roulette due to the presence of an additional green pocket (00) that slightly changes the probabilities.
Random Number Generation (RNG)
You may be familiar with RNGs already– bingo is a perfect example of a game built off of RNGs, but really, all online casino games work on this principle.
A random number generator (RNG) is a software algorithm used in online gambling to ensure fair and unbiased outcomes in casino games. It generates a sequence of numbers or symbols that cannot be predicted or manipulated. It is a factor included in figuring out the RTP of casino games.
The RNG operates on the principle of true randomness, producing independent and unrelated numbers for each game outcome. It undergoes rigorous testing and certification to ensure its integrity and compliance with industry standards.
The RNG plays a vital role in maintaining fairness, giving players confidence in the randomness and impartiality of online casino games.
RTP and Responsible Gambling
Knowing about RTP (Return to Player) is an essential aspect of managing money while gambling. RTP provides insight into the potential returns you can expect from a specific game over time.
By understanding the RTP, you can make more informed choices about which games to play, as higher RTPs generally indicate a higher likelihood of winning or smaller losses in the long run. It helps you assess the risk and potential rewards associated with different games, allowing you to make decisions that align with your preferences and risk tolerance.
Incorporating RTP knowledge into your gambling strategy can contribute to a more informed and responsible gambling experience, as well as ensure that you’re making educated bets– thereby protecting your bankroll and keeping the game fun and interesting.
Frequently Asked Questions about RTP
RTP stands for “Return to “Player” as in the percentage that represents the average amount of money that a player can expect to win back from their bets over a long period of time in a particular casino game. The higher the RTP, the better it is for you as a bettor!
RTP is important because although you are almost certainly never going to beat the house in the long run, you can stack the odds more in your favor with games that yield a higher RTP.
Although RTP is based on long-term calculations and in no way guarantees each player will win back exactly the indicated percentage, usually when we play games with higher RTPs, we are giving ourselves a better chance to potentially win back more cash.
RTP is calculated through various factors, including the game’s rules, payouts, and random number generators. Even though it is not an “end-all, be-all”, it is definitely a good tool to utilize as a casino player.
Generally speaking, yes. Like we stated above, just because one game has a higher RTP than another doesn’t guarantee you have a better chance to win on that particular game. However, over the long run, you have a better chance to gain an advantage and make more money back playing games with a higher RTP.
