Online gambling has become a popular pastime for many Kiwis. The adrenaline surge accompanying each spin of the roulette wheel or the anticipation as cards are dealt in a game of blackjack mirrors the allure of a virtual casino floor, easily accessible from the comfort of one’s abode. As online casino players, we’re always looking for ways to increase our chances of winning. If you’re interested in increasing your odds, understanding the Return to Player (RTP) percentage is a good place to start, as this is one of the key metrics online casinos use to calculate your winnings.
What exactly is RTP and how does it work? Let’s step behind the curtain and find out all about this concept.
Understanding Return to Player (RTP) Percentage
The Return to Player (RTP) percentage is one of the most important concepts you should consider when playing real money games at online casinos. RTP is a numerical representation, typically displayed as a percentage, that signifies the average amount of wagered money a player can expect to receive back over time while playing a particular casino game. In simpler terms, it represents the portion of bets that a game is programmed to return to players as winnings over the long run.
The calculation of RTP involves intricate mathematics intertwined with the core mechanics of each game. It considers various factors, such as probability, payout, and house edge. For instance, if a game boasts an RTP of 95%, it implies that, theoretically, for every $100 wagered, the game is designed to return $95 to players over its lifespan.
Understanding the role of RTP in determining potential winnings is akin to deciphering the odds in a game of strategy. A higher RTP signifies a better chance for players to retain a larger portion of their wagers over time. Consequently, it shapes the gaming experience, offering a glimpse into the potential returns you can expect while engaging in the diverse range of online casino games.
Whether it’s spinning the reels of pokies or placing strategic bets in blackjack, knowing the RTP empowers you to make informed decisions about where to invest your time and money, enhancing the enjoyment and potential rewards of your gaming experience.
RTPs are commonly used for online slots, though occasionally for other casino games. So, how much money do you need to wager in an online slot game to get paid back? Well, the rule of thumb is to choose titles with a high RTP. These types of games are known as loose slot machines and will pay out more often. Specifically for online slots, an RTP of 95% or higher is what you want to aim for. Slots with an RTP of 92% or lower are considered tight slots, so they’ll pay out less.
Finding RTP Rates of Online Casino Games
There are several ways you can use to find the RTP percentages of online casino games. To find the RTP of a game, you can click the game’s information section. You can also find it on the game provider’s website if the game is available. Some reputable online casinos will often display their overall RTP percentage on their website, which takes into account the RTPs of all slots, table games, and live dealer titles. That’s why it’s always recommended to only play at online casinos that are licensed and regulated by the New Zealand Gambling Commission or other offshore reputable bodies, such as the Malta Gaming Authority or the UK Gambling Commission.
Online casino comparison platforms, like OnlineCasinoNewzealand.nz, make it easy for you to find RTP percentages. They evaluate top online casino games and include the RTP, along with other relevant information. You can visit the site’s payout page where you’ll find games and online casinos with high return-to-player rates.
Based on Daniel Chapman’s research, there are plenty of high payout casinos which NZ players can play at. Most of the recommended high payout casino sites have an RTP of between 95% and 97%. These are some of the best online casinos in New Zealand offering the highest return to player rates:
- Caxino Casino: 97%
- Grand Ivy Casino: 96.78%
- VideoSlots Casino: 97%
- Casino Days: 96.11%
- Mr Bet Casino: 95.60%
These days, most Kiwis are inclined to gravitate towards online casinos that not only offer a wide range of games but also ensure a higher probability of returns on their bets. Players engaging with these reputable online casinos can anticipate a more rewarding journey.
The House Edge
Now, RTP rates are closely tied to online slots, although other types of casino games also use this metric. With table and card games, like roulette, blackjack, and baccarat, you’ll likely come across the term house edge, which is another metric online casinos use to calculate the winnings you get from these games.
The house edge is the advantage that a casino has, built into the design of most casino games. This is what ensures that, statistically, an online casino should make a profit from their players in the long run. Games with a high house edge will pay out less on average, while those with a lower house edge pay out more. So, you should be looking for games with a low house edge, such as video poker (0.46) and blackjack (0.5%), as you stand a better chance of landing a win.
Conclusion
The return to player rate is no doubt an important aspect to consider when deciding which online casino games to play. While RTP is by no means a winning formula, understanding this metric can help you choose games and online casinos that offer high payouts, thereby maximising your chances for potential winnings.
However, online casino gambling extends way beyond numbers and percentages. It’s all about the fun, so it’s important to strike a balance between high RTP games and those that bring you genuine entertainment.
