Understanding RTP: What It Means for Online Casino Players

In the world of online casino gaming, few terms are as important, yet often misunderstood as RTP, or Return to Player. Whether you’re spinning the reels, playing blackjack, or trying out live dealer tables, understanding how RTP works can help you make more informed decisions and better comprehend the long-term expectations of your gameplay. While RTP does not guarantee short-term outcomes, it provides valuable insight into how different games are designed, how they pay out, and how you can maximize your chances of walking away with a win. This detailed guide breaks down what RTP is, how it’s calculated, why it matters, and how you can use it as part of your gaming strategy in 2025.

What Is RTP and How Is It Calculated?

RTP stands for Return to Player, a percentage that indicates how much of the total money wagered on a game is paid back to players over time. It’s one of the most important metrics used by game developers, regulators, and players to understand the statistical performance of a casino game.

How RTP Works

If a slot machine has an RTP of 96%, it means that, theoretically, the game will return $96 for every $100 wagered, over a very long period of time. This does not mean that an individual player will get $96 back from $100 spent in a single session. RTP reflects millions of spins or rounds, not short-term play.

How Game Providers Calculate RTP

Game developers run extensive simulations, often billions of spins, to determine RTP. These simulations confirm:

• Probability of each symbol or outcome
• Expected frequency of bonus rounds
• Volatility and payout distributions
• Long-term game behavior.

After testing, the finalized RTP is submitted to regulators for certification, ensuring the number is accurate and the game behaves as intended.

Why RTP Matters When Choosing Online Casino Games

RTP doesn’t determine whether you’ll win or lose today, but it does help you understand your long-term expectations as a player.

1. RTP Helps You Identify Player-Friendly Games

Higher RTP percentages mean less long-term loss for the player. While the casino always has a house edge, choosing games with 96%+ RTP helps minimize that advantage.

2. RTP Shows How Much Value You Get Over Time

If two games both look appealing. One with a 92% RTP and one with a 97% RTP, the second game statistically returns significantly more value in the long run.

3. Lower RTP Doesn’t Always Mean a Bad Game

Players who prefer thrilling, high-risk gameplay often choose these games despite the lower percentage. Lower RTP games often offer:

• Larger jackpots
• High volatility
• Much bigger potential payouts.

4. RTP Helps You Set Realistic Expectations

Even with a great RTP, you can still experience losing streaks. Understanding this helps you avoid chasing losses or expecting guaranteed returns.

Comparing RTP Across Slots, Table Games, and Live Dealer Games

RTP varies significantly across different game types. Understanding the differences can help you select the ideal game for your play style. Read more about these game types below:

1. Slots RTP: Widely Variable

Slots tend to have the largest RTP range of any casino game category. The typical RTP values consist of the following:

• Low RTP: 88%–93%
• Medium RTP: 94%–96%
• High RTP: 96%–98%.

Slots rely mostly on luck, though some game types, like Megaways or bonus-heavy titles, may have additional volatility considerations that affect your experience even if RTP is high.

2. Table Games RTP: Some of the Highest in the Casino

Many table games offer extremely favorable RTP when played using an optimal strategy. Because table games have a lower house edge, serious players often gravitate toward them.

• Blackjack: 99%+ with basic strategy
• Baccarat: 98.5% on banker bets
• Craps: 98% depending on wagers
• Video Poker: Up to 99.5% on full-pay versions.

3. Live Dealer Games RTP: Realistic but Balanced

Live casino games often mirror the RTP of their table game equivalents, but with slightly adjusted margins. Live games also add entertainment value, making them appealing even when RTP isn’t the absolute highest.

• Live Blackjack: 98.5%–99.3%
• Live Roulette: 94.7%–97.3% depending on wheel type
• Live Game Shows: Typically 94%–96%.

How to Use RTP to Improve Your Chances of Winning

While RTP is not a crystal ball, you can use it strategically to make informed decisions and improve your overall casino experience. Here are some valuable tips:

1. Choose Games with Higher RTP When Possible

If you’re focused on maximizing returns, always compare RTP percentages. A difference of even 2–3% can be significant over time.

2. Understand Volatility Alongside RTP

Two slot games with the same RTP can exhibit very different behavior based on their volatility. Select options based on your budget and risk tolerance.

• Low volatility game: Frequent small wins
• High volatility game: Rare but big wins

3. Use Basic Strategy on Table Games

Table games like blackjack or video poker allow you to influence RTP through skill. Using an optimal strategy reduces the house edge and maximizes the RTP.

4. Avoid Side Bets with Low RTP

Side bets in blackjack, baccarat, or roulette often have much lower RTP than the main game. They may be exciting, but they are statistically unfavorable.

5. Play Long Enough to Experience RTP—but Not Too Long

RTP plays out over millions of rounds. In short sessions, anything can happen. Protect your bankroll by gambling responsibly and set:

• Time limits
• Loss limits
• Win goals

6. Play at Reputable, Licensed Casinos

Certified operators provide transparent RTP values that regulators verify for players in the U.S., platforms like Borgata Online Casino offer fully audited, state-approved titles.

Our Final Verdict

RTP is one of the most essential concepts for online casino players to understand. It offers a crucial insight into how each game is designed, how payouts are distributed, and how the house edge impacts long-term play. By comparing RTP values, selecting games strategically, avoiding low-value bets, and managing your risk, you can significantly enhance your overall experience and improve your results. Whether you’re a casual player or a frequent casino enthusiast, using RTP to guide your decisions is one of the most innovative ways to navigate online gaming in 2025 and beyond.