There are loads of online slots to choose from in 2024, and thankfully, there are some good, detailed guides that come with them.

While I normally take the time to read through these guides – johnslots.com/en/ tend to have the most in-depth information about the most popular releases across multiple casinos – one of the first things I will look at is the RTP.

No matter how good the game is, how accessible the gameplay, or how aesthetically pleasing it is from a thematic point of view, the RTP will be the deciding factor in whether you have a positive experience or a negative one. So why is this the case and how does RTP selection actually work?

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The Meaning Behind RTP

RTP – or ‘Return to Player’ – is a crucial concept in the world of iGaming, and understanding how it works can significantly impact your gaming experience and potential for winnings. You’ll ordinarily find it as a percentage that is included in the ‘info’ section.

This percentage indicates how much of the total wagered amount a game is expected to return to you over time, so if a release has an RTP of 96%, it means that you can expect to win back $96 for every $100 wagered, on average. This is, of course, calculated over a long period and multiple plays, so individual sessions can certainly vary.

How Does RTP Work?

By and large, the games you’ll come across will have RTP percentages that range from around 85% to 98%. Higher percentages are generally more favourable, while low RTP percentages are often avoided. The way in which an RTP is worked out is based on the game’s algorithm and a vast number of simulated spins.

In other words, the RTP will represent a long-term average, which means a player might win or lose a substantial amount in a single session, but could earn something closer to the RTP over thousands of spins.

The RTP is also influenced by several design elements, including:

  • The frequency of bonus features
  • Number of reels
  • Potential winning combinations
  • The payout structures for winning combinations

all of which are factors that are programmed into the software of the game – and will be verified by independent testing agencies to ensure it is fair and transparent.

The Influence of Volatility

As I mentioned before, the RTP is one of the first things I look at when researching new releases, but it’s not the only number that’s important. When you’re browsing through iGaming platforms, you’re also going to come across information on volatility – and if you can’t find it, then make sure to ask a chatbot or contact ‘customer support’ before you risk playing.

Volatility, also known as ‘variance’, indicates how often and how much a machine will pay out. If the volatility is low, you’ll get more frequent wins, but the payouts will tend to be smaller – making a high RTP with low volatility a great option for people who want steady returns and longer play sessions.

If the volatility is medium, this means it strikes a balance between risk and reward. Players will get a mix of smaller, frequent payouts, and larger, more significant wins.

If the volatility is high, that means you’ll get fewer wins, but the wins that you do get will be substantial. Consequently, a low RTP game with high volatility will be well suited for people willing to take risks for the chance of hitting big jackpots, but is also aware that it can lead to a longer losing streak.

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What You Need to Consider

If you’re new to the iGaming landscape, there are several things you need to be aware of. As I’ve just mentioned, RTP is the big one. If you want to get an upfront idea of what you might win when you play, all you have to do is check out the RTP – but remain aware that this is a long-term average.

It’s also important to take a look at the volatility, weighing up what kind of person you are and whether you can afford to take risks with your bankroll. Apart from these two things, I think it’s a good idea to check out the security precautions of the specific casino – safety is always paramount – and get the lowdown on what the game is like through reading the description, looking out for pros and cons, and seeing what the bonuses are.

There are so many on the market, this is the only good way to get a strong indication of what the game is like without actually having to make a deposit and start playing. Every individual is different, after all. While you might be more interested in bonuses and jackpots, other people like to have a game with an interesting, perhaps trending theme, such as a horror-based feature during Halloween, or a sport-based feature that is a little more unique than the classic options.

All the information is at your disposal so long as you’re checking out the right platforms, so make sure you use that information and attain a good visualisation of the game – and how you might perform – before you even click ‘start’.