Short definition
A return percentage showing what share of bets a game theoretically pays back over the long run. 96% RTP means a 4% house margin.
RTP, or return to player, expresses as a percentage how much of the stakes a game pays back over the long run. A 96% RTP doesn't mean every player gets 96% back — it means that across a very large number of rounds, that is the theoretical average.
Alongside RTP you should always consider volatility, because it affects how swingy the playing experience is.
The formula and an example
Expected loss is turnover multiplied by (100% − RTP). Example: 1,000 spins at €1 is a turnover of €1,000. At 96% RTP the theoretical return is €960 and the average loss €40. At 94% RTP the loss would be €60, so a 2-percentage-point gap is €20 on every €1,000 of turnover. You calculate the cost of a wagering requirement in the same way: the requirement's turnover multiplied by the house edge.
Why the actual result differs
RTP is an average over a very large number of plays, not a promise for a single session. Over a thousand spins the result can be far above or below 96%, and when the swing is large, volatility helps you understand it. Two games with the same RTP can therefore play out completely differently. RTP also says nothing about when a win will come, and earlier spins do not affect later ones.
Where to find the RTP and what to check
- on the game's info or help page; the number published by the casino or game provider is normally theoretical;
- some games exist in several RTP versions and the casino picks one, so the same game can pay differently at different casinos;
- on progressive games part of the RTP may go to the jackpot, which means ordinary play returns less than the displayed number.
Independent testing laboratories such as GLI test games' random number generators and payouts; see Gaming Laboratories International. The idea of the house edge is also covered at Wikipedia: House edge. To calculate with your game's RTP, use the RTP calculator and the house edge calculator. For crypto casinos the same concept is explained in RTP payback.
Related and sources
See also house edge, volatility, and calculate yours with the RTP calculator. Source: Return to player (Wikipedia).
“Example: a 96% RTP means that for every €100 wagered the game theoretically pays back €96. Over a short session the result can differ greatly.
1. A long-run average
RTP applies over millions of spins, not a single session.
2. House edge
The house edge is 100% minus RTP — a 96% RTP means a 4% house edge.
3. Compare with volatility
At the same RTP, the swings can be very different.
4. Check in the game
RTP is stated in the game's info panel or the provider's data.
96% and higherGood slot RTP
4%House edge (96% RTP)
Over the long runApplies
Does a high RTP guarantee a win?
No. RTP is a theoretical average over the long run. A single session’s result can be considerably better or worse.
Can RTP differ between games?
Yes, and some slots even have several RTP versions. Always check the specific game’s value.
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