Did you pick a slot for its 96%+ RTP? That may not be the figure of the game you are actually playing. Most providers ship their games in several versions, and each casino chooses which one to install. The good news: the real RTP is shown in the game itself, and checking it takes less than a minute.
Why the same slot's RTP varies between casinos
Game providers offer casinos several RTP configurations for the same slot. The graphics, features and maximum win stay identical: only the share paid back to players changes. The casino chooses which version goes live, and nothing forces it to pick the most generous one.
A few examples from our slot reviews, checked against official sources:
- Big Bass Bonanza : 96.71%, 95.67% or 94.02%
- Book of Dead : 96.21%, 94.25% or lower
- Tombstone R.I.P. : 96.08% or 94.08%
In other words, two players launching the same game at two different casinos can be playing with more than two points of RTP difference, without knowing it.
Where to find the RTP in a game, step by step
Open the game in real or demo mode
The RTP shown in the game is the version installed by that casino. That's why you should check it at the casino where you plan to play, not on a review site or the provider's website.
Look for the info menu
Depending on the game, it's an “i” icon, a “?” button, or a menu (three lines) leading to the game rules or paytable.
Scroll down to the game rules
The RTP is usually at the bottom of the rules, worded like “The theoretical RTP of this game is 96.50%” or “Return to player: 96.50%”.
Check whether there are several RTPs
Some games show a different RTP for the bonus buy or for an increased bet. If you don't use those options, the base RTP is what matters.
Then compare the figure with the game's maximum RTP, shown on our slot reviews. If it's lower, you're playing a reduced version.
What a lower version costs, in euros
On a single spin, the difference is invisible. Over time, it adds up. Take €1,000 wagered on Big Bass Bonanza:
That's about €27 more average loss for the same game, simply because the casino installed another version. And the gap grows with the amount wagered, especially when you're clearing a bonus's wagering.
To test your own amounts, use our bonus calculator: just change the RTP to see the effect on a bonus's value.
What to do if the RTP isn't shown or is low
The RTP isn't shown anywhere
Ask the casino's support which version of the game is installed. A serious casino should be able to answer. Be wary of games with no info sheet at all.
The RTP is lower than usual
Pick another game of similar quality whose installed version is good, or play that game at another casino.
You're clearing a wagering requirement
RTP matters even more: over thousands of euros of bets, every lost point costs you. Favour high-RTP games.
The pre-play checklist
- Open the game rules at the casino where you play
- Find the RTP shown, and the bonus-buy RTP if there is one
- Compare it with the game's maximum RTP
- Switch game or casino if the version is reduced
- Remember that RTP is a long-term average, not a guarantee
Frequently asked questions
Is the RTP shown in the game reliable?
Yes. It matches the version installed by the casino and is calculated and certified by the game provider. It's the figure to check, rather than one found on a review site.
Why would a casino choose a lower-RTP version?
Because it earns more over time. Providers offer these versions, and the casino is free to choose as long as it meets its disclosure obligations.
Does the RTP change while I'm playing?
No. The RTP is set by the game version. A run of wins or losses doesn't mean the RTP has changed: that's variance, normal over a short session.
Does a high RTP guarantee a win?
No. RTP is an average calculated over millions of spins. In one session anything can happen, especially on very volatile games. It simply lowers the average cost of your play.
Our slot reviews, with their maximum RTP
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9 years of experience in the iGaming industry. Former analyst for two European operators, Thomas tests every casino with a real account and real wagers before any publication.
Checking the RTP takes less than a minute and can save you from unknowingly playing with two fewer points of return. The habit is even more useful when you're clearing a bonus's wagering. To go further, our guide explains what RTP really means and how it interacts with volatility.
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