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RTP

Last updated: 13.11.2025
Emily Patel
Published by:Emily Patel
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When you're diving into the world of online gambling, understanding the 'Return to Player' (RTP) is a game-changer. Simply put, RTP tells you the percentage of all the money gambled on a particular casino game that is expected to be returned to players over time. It's a vital clue to a game's potential payout and can seriously steer your choices when picking a mobile casino to play at.

Here at CasinoRank, we get how important RTP is. Our platform gives you the lowdown on various games, including their exact RTP percentages. Armed with this info, you can make much savvier decisions about where to place your bets. In this guide, we'll unpack the world of RTP, explaining how it's calculated and why it's such a big deal for mobile casino games.

What Exactly is RTP in Mobile Casinos?

RTP, short for Return to Player, is the percentage of all wagered money that a casino game is designed to pay back to players over its lifetime. Think of it as a fairness meter and a sign of a game's potential long-term payout. Whether you're spinning the reels on slots, placing bets on roulette, hitting or standing on blackjack, or trying any other game, grasping RTP can significantly boost your winning chances and make your gaming sessions more enjoyable.

To get a handle on RTP, picture this: imagine a slot machine boasts an RTP of 95%. This means that, on average, for every $100 players collectively wager on that machine, $95 is paid back out as winnings over an extended period. It's crucial to remember that RTP is calculated over heaps of spins or hands, not on your individual bets, and doesn't guarantee you'll win $95 every time you play with $100. Still, it's a solid indicator of a game's potential payouts.

RTP figures are always shown as a percentage, typically ranging from around 80% to over 99%. The higher the percentage, the better the odds are for you, the player, to come out ahead in the long run. Remember, it's not about what you'll win on a single spin or hand, but about the overall expected return over thousands, or even millions, of plays.

How is RTP Calculated for Mobile Casino Games?

Calculating RTP for mobile casino games involves looking at the total money wagered on a specific game and the total amount paid out in winnings. This data is usually supplied by the game developers themselves and is frequently checked by independent testing agencies to ensure everything's fair and square.

To nail down the RTP of a mobile casino game, you divide the total winnings paid out by the total amount wagered, and then multiply by 100 to get the percentage. For instance, if a game has seen $10,000 wagered in total and has paid out $9,500 in winnings, the RTP would be calculated like this:

RTP = (Total Winnings / Total Wagered) * 100
RTP = ($9,500 / $10,000) * 100
RTP = 95%

Why Should You Care About RTP?

RTP is a biggie when you're deciding where to play. A higher RTP means the game is generally more generous, offering a smaller house edge – that's the casino's built-in advantage. Essentially, it gives you a clearer picture of what you can realistically expect to get back from your wagers over the long haul.

While RTP doesn't promise wins on every spin, it’s your best guide to a game's fairness and its potential payout. For instance, a game with a 98% RTP is likely to pay back $98 for every $100 wagered over countless plays. For players in New Zealand looking to make their bankroll stretch further, this can easily be the deciding factor.

What Affects a Game's RTP?

Several things can tweak the RTP of mobile casino games. Being aware of these factors can help you pick the best games to play for your style and budget.

  • Game Design and Rules: The design and rules of a mobile casino game can greatly impact its RTP. Certain features, such as bonus rounds or multipliers, can increase the potential for higher payouts. On the other hand, games with complex rules or high house edges may have a lower RTP.
  • Game Type: Different types of mobile casino games tend to have varying RTP percentages. For example, slot games typically have a wide range of RTP values, with some offering higher percentages than others. Table games like blackjack and roulette often have higher RTPs compared to slots.
  • Game Provider: The game provider also plays a role in determining the RTP of a mobile casino game. Different providers may have different payout structures and mathematical models, leading to variations in RTP. It's a good idea for players to research and compare the RTPs of games from different providers to find the best options.
  • Progressive Jackpots: Progressive jackpot games, which offer the chance to win a massive jackpot that increases over time, often have lower RTPs. This is because a portion of each bet is added to the jackpot prize pool, reducing the overall payout percentage of the game.

Now that we understand the importance of choosing games with high RTP percentages let's explore some popular mobile casino games known for their favorable RTP.

  • Starburst - Starburst is a highly popular slot game known for its captivating visuals and immersive gameplay. With an RTP of 96.09%, this game offers a great chance of winning with its frequent payouts and exciting features.
  • Mega Joker - Mega Joker is a classic slot game that appeals to both new and experienced players. With an impressive RTP of 99%, this game offers incredible winning potential and a nostalgic gaming experience.
  • French Roulette - French Roulette is a favorite among table game enthusiasts. With an RTP of 98.65%, this game offers excellent odds and a thrilling gameplay experience.
  • Blackjack - Blackjack is a timeless casino classic loved by players worldwide. With different variations available, blackjack offers favorable RTP percentages ranging from 99% to 99.5%, making it a popular choice for strategic players.

These are just a few examples of mobile casino games with high RTP percentages. By exploring different games and their RTP percentages, you can find the ones that suit your preferences and offer the best chances of winning.

Tips for Maximizing Your Winnings Through RTP

Now that we have covered the importance of RTP and choosing games with high RTP percentages, let's explore some tips for maximizing your winnings through RTP in mobile casinos.

  • Research and Compare: Take the time to research and compare the RTP percentages of different games before making your choice. This will help you identify games with higher RTP percentages and increase your chances of winning.
  • Manage Your Bankroll: Setting a budget and managing your bankroll is essential for maximizing your winnings. By carefully selecting your bets and sticking to your budget, you can optimize your gameplay and make your money last longer.
  • Practice Responsible Gambling: Responsible gambling is crucial for maintaining a healthy gaming experience. Set limits on your time and money spent on mobile casinos to ensure that you're playing for entertainment purposes and not risking more than you can afford to lose.
  • Try Different Games: Don't be afraid to explore different games and try new experiences. By experimenting with different games, you can find the ones that suit your preferences and offer the best chances of winning.
  • Take Advantage of Bonuses: Many mobile casinos offer bonuses and promotions that can enhance your gameplay. Take advantage of these offers to boost your bankroll and increase your chances of winning.
  • Stay Informed: RTP percentages can vary over time, so it's important to stay informed about the latest updates and changes. Keep an eye on the RTP percentages of your favorite games and adjust your strategy accordingly.

By following these tips, you can maximize your winnings through RTP and optimize your gaming experience in mobile casinos.

Common Misconceptions About RTP in Mobile Casinos

Despite its importance, RTP in mobile casinos is often misunderstood. Let's debunk some common misconceptions surrounding RTP and shed light on the truth.

  • The Hot and Cold Myth: One common misconception is the belief that games can be "hot" or "cold" based on recent outcomes. In reality, each spin of the reels or hand of cards is independent and subject to chance. Previous outcomes do not influence future results, and games do not go through dedicated "hot" or "cold" phases.
  • Manipulation by Casinos: Some players believe that casinos can manipulate the RTP percentages of games to their advantage. However, reputable mobile casinos are regulated and audited to ensure fairness and transparency. The RTP percentages of games are determined by game providers and cannot be altered by casinos.
  • Immediate Success with High RTP: While games with high RTP percentages offer better long-term value, they do not guarantee immediate success. RTP provides a long-term average of payouts and should be used as a guideline rather than a definitive measure of profitability.
  • RTP and Skill: Another misconception is that skill can influence the RTP of a game. In reality, the outcome of mobile casino games is determined by random number generators (RNGs), which ensure fairness and unpredictability. Skill can certainly improve your chances of winning in certain games like blackjack, but it does not directly affect the RTP.

By understanding the truth behind these misconceptions, you can make informed decisions and optimize your gaming experience in mobile casinos.

At CasinoRank, not only do we prioritize the highest RTP games, but we also ensure the integrity and fairness of the games we recommend. Before suggesting any site, we thoroughly verify its licensing credentials, ensuring players are accessing only the most reputable mobile casinos. The reputation of the software provider and the fairness of their games are paramount to us. We exclusively feature minimum deposit casino sites that meet our rigorous standards. Additionally, platforms that collaborate with top-tier software providers receive our special recommendation, further enhancing the gaming experience for our users.

FAQ

What does RTP mean in online pokies?

RTP stands for "Return to Player." It's the percentage of all wagered money that a pokie machine is expected to pay back to players over a long period.

How do you calculate RTP for pokies?

RTP is calculated by dividing the total amount of money returned to players by the total amount of money wagered by players. The result is usually expressed as a percentage.

If a pokie has an RTP of 95%, what does that mean for Kiwi players?

It means that, on average, for every $100 NZD wagered on that pokie, players can expect to win back $95 NZD over a long period. Remember, this is just an average.

Does a higher RTP guarantee a win every time I play?

No, RTP is a long-term average, not a predictor of short-term results. You might win significantly more or less than the stated RTP during any single play session. Always gamble responsibly.

Are RTP rates different between online casinos on desktop and mobile?

Generally, the RTP for a specific game remains the same whether you're playing on a desktop or mobile device. However, individual casinos in New Zealand might have slight variations based on their operational requirements.

Where can I find the RTP for a specific pokie in a New Zealand online casino?

Most online casinos will display the RTP directly within the game information or list it on their website. If you can't find it there, check the game developer's website. They often provide this information.

Why do different pokies have different RTPs?

RTPs vary due to game design, complexity, bonus features, and the target audience. For example, a classic fruit machine pokie might have a different RTP than a modern video pokie with multiple bonus rounds.

Does a pokie with a 100% RTP mean I can't lose money?

A 100% RTP means that, on average, players get back all of what they wager over a very long time. However, individual sessions can still result in wins or losses. It's an average, not a guarantee.

How does RTP relate to the house edge in casino games?

The house edge is the inverse of the RTP. If a game has a 95% RTP, the house edge is 5%. This represents the casino's average profit margin from a player's bets.

Is it always better to play pokies with higher RTP percentages in New Zealand?

While higher RTP pokies generally offer a better chance of returns over time, consider other factors like game volatility, personal preferences, and how much you enjoy the game. Responsible gambling is key!

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