Online and real-life slots function on the same principle, and that is RNG (random number generator). The calculations and mechanisms behind one of the casino’s most popular games consider many factors before displaying the result. RTP, or return to player, shows what percentage the slot machine will return to the player after several games over some time. A more straightforward explanation would be that the higher the RTP percentage, the more favorably inclined a slot game is toward the player. And while playing on higher RTP slot games is desirable, it’s worth diving deeper and exploring the term.
Comparison of RTP
When players browse potential online casinos, searching for their ideal one, they can get lost in all the numbers and options. Vlad Grindu states that the RTP of online slots for real money provides a rough estimate of how much the game pays in the long term, while the volatility indicates the way the wins are awarded. When comparing the options, it’s worth knowing that RTP comes in three categories: low, medium, and high. Based on probability, RTP can range from 90 to 99%, and if you find slots with RTP ranging from 90% to 93%, chances are that you are looking at games with low RTP.
Lower RTP slots may sound less appealing, but they often offer other bonuses and incentives to players, such as allowing for larger deposits, compared to other RTP ranges. Sitting in the sweet spot, the 94% to 96% of RTP slots are made to ideally balance excitement and player satisfaction, offering some features from the lower and high range. Anything from the 97% to 99% range falls into the high RTP slots category, where RTP heavily favors the player and creates a more relaxing atmosphere.
While many will consider only playing high RTP slot games, each category has its benefits and can offer a unique experience. Another comparison worth noting is whether you play slots online or at a real casino. Online slots are typically set to a higher RTP than their physical counterparts and for a simple reason. Physical slot machines require physical space, and any casino can only fit a limited number of them inside their premises, and by extension, allow only a set number of players to use them.
Online slots don’t have such limitations, and they have fewer maintenance costs associated. Physical slot machines need mechanics, maintenance, and services, which all factor into their profitability, but online slots are free from such burdens and allow for their RTP to be even several percent higher.
RTP expectations
Whenever RTP is visible, it could be possible that potential players can have different expectations. It’s always important to know that RNG is in effect and behind the algorithms in slot machines, where RTP is one of the factors. A higher RTP could mean that a given slot machine may display wins more often than a lower RTP one, but there are no guarantees when RNG is involved, as that is the nature of gaming.
Players can win on low and high RTP slots, but when and how often is always up to RNG, making each game unique and ensuring fairness. This randomness of slot games has been present since their inception and is also regulated today. Casinos must display the RTP of slots so players can explore and manage their expectations. Making an informed choice and enabling players to curate their gaming sessions leads to higher entertainment value and better player satisfaction.
Variance
Taking RTP at face value may seem like the bigger number is better, and thus lead players to a false conclusion. It’s worth mentioning again that RNG always plays a crucial and deciding factor in all games, and the profitability of each slot machine depends on set variance. Variances on slots can also range from low to high. Low variances mean that a player will often get plenty of smaller wins, and higher variance means a larger chance of a potentially incredible win.
Variance on slots can be set to anything between or at the two extreme ends, and its variance ensures the fairness of RNG and the outcome of each pull. While we’ve mentioned that lower and higher RTP slots have their advantages, it’s precisely variance that sets them apart, because high volatility slots can appear in low RTP games, and vice-versa.