When participating in betting games, especially slot games and online casinos, one of the important factors that affects the player’s ability to win is the payout ratio (RTP). Understanding RTP not only helps you make smart choices but also optimizes your chances of winning and manages risks more effectively. So what is the RTP ratio and how to apply it when choosing a game? Let’s find out the details with In 999 in the article below.
1. What is RTP?
RTP stands for Return to Player, also known as the return to player ratio. This is an index expressed as a percentage, indicating the average return that a player can receive after a long time playing a certain game.
For example, a game with an RTP of 96% means that, on average, for every 100 units bet, the player will receive about 96 units back over a long period of time.
Note that RTP does not guarantee short-term results and does not mean that you will win every time you play. This index is calculated based on millions of spins or games, to reflect the probability of return over time, not in each specific betting session.
See more:
- What is House Edge? Why does the house always have an advantage?
2. How is RTP calculated?
The RTP rate is calculated by game developers based on simulations of millions of test plays. The general formula is:
RTP = (Total amount returned to player / Total amount bet) x 100%
Reputable testing agencies such as eCOGRA, iTech Labs, or GLI are often the units that test and verify the RTP index of the game to ensure fairness.
3. Is RTP the same as the win rate?
Many players confuse RTP with the hit rate. Here is the difference:
RTP represents the average return amount after a long period of time.
The hit rate indicates the frequency of winnings in each round.
A game with a high RTP does not necessarily have a high win rate. For example, a game with an RTP of 97% but the rewards often come very little, but when they do, the value is large. Conversely, a game with many small wins but the overall RTP is still low.
4. Is high RTP the best?
In theory, the higher the RTP, the greater the player’s advantage. However, RTP is only a reference factor. You need to consider other aspects such as:
Volatility: Games with high RTP but large fluctuations still have many potential risks.
Game features: Some games have average RTP but many attractive bonus and freespin features.
Big or small bonus value: High RTP but if the bonus is divided into many times, the profit is not attractive.
5. Popular RTP levels today
Usually, online betting games have RTP fluctuating as follows:
Below 94%: Low, should not play unless you are just playing for light entertainment.
94% – 96%: Average level, suitable for most games today.
96% – 98%: High, should prioritize choosing games with RTP in this group.
Over 98%: Very high, rare, usually games that are well-rated in terms of payouts.
6. How to view the RTP of a game
There are 3 common ways to check RTP:
In the game information section: Developers often publicly disclose RTP in the Help or Info section of the game.
Publisher homepage: Companies such as NetEnt, Play’n GO, Pragmatic Play often list RTP for each game.
Game review page: Many websites specializing in reviewing casino games will provide details on RTP, volatility, and bonus features.
7. How to apply RTP when choosing a game
To effectively apply RTP in choosing a game, you can follow these steps:
Step 1: Prioritize games with RTP above 96% – This is the minimum threshold that will give you a long-term advantage.
Step 2: Combine with suitable volatility – If you like low risk, choose a game with high RTP + low volatility. If you like to win big, choose high RTP + high volatility.
Step 3: Try playing the demo first – To understand how RTP and bonus features work.
Step 4: Compare many games with the same theme – For example, if you like Egyptian games, compare the RTP of “Book of Dead”, “Legacy of Egypt”, etc.
Step 5: Don’t rely solely on RTP – Always consider your budget and personal experience.
8. Some common misconceptions about RTP
Misunderstanding 1: High RTP always wins
Truth: RTP reflects long-term results. You can still lose in the short term.
Misunderstanding 2: Games with the same RTP pay out the same rewards
Truth: The way rewards are distributed (frequency, size) can be very different even though the RTP is the same.
Misunderstanding 3: The higher the RTP, the easier it is to play
Truth: Some games have high RTP but the game mechanics are complex and difficult to exploit.
Understanding the payout ratio (RTP) is an important key to help players gain an advantage when participating in online betting games. RTP does not guarantee victory but is a fundamental factor in choosing a game that suits your strategy and budget. Always research carefully before playing, combine RTP with other factors such as volatility and bonus features to make the right decision.
