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Online CasinoGuidesWhat is RTP in Online Casinos: A Comprehensive Guide

What is RTP in Online Casinos: A Comprehensive Guide

Last updated: 21.11.2025
Emily Thompson
Published by:Emily Thompson
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Welcome to the exciting world of online casinos in New Zealand! If you're new to the thrill of online gambling, understanding RTP (Return to Player) is your golden ticket to making smart decisions with your bets. Think of RTP as your secret weapon – getting the hang of it will seriously level up your gameplay.

Eager to dive in? Why not check out the top online casinos for Kiwis listed on CasinoRank? We've handpicked these sites for their reliability, awesome game selection, and, of course, their favourable RTP rates.

What Exactly is RTP on Casino Games?

RTP stands for Return to Player. It's a figure, usually shown as a percentage, that tells you how much a casino game, especially online pokies (slots), is expected to pay back to players over time. This applies to both classic brick-and-mortar casinos and all the top online casinos available in New Zealand.

Let's break it down with a simple example. Imagine a pokie has an RTP of 90%. If you were to bet $100 in $1 spins, over the long run, you could expect to get back about $90. That's the essence of the Return to Player for that specific pokie.

It's important to remember that this is just an average, calculated over millions of spins. You could have a lucky streak and win more, or have a run of bad luck and end up with less than the stated RTP. It's not a guarantee for any single session.

Also, the RTP figure doesn't necessarily predict how often you'll win, but rather the overall percentage payback the game offers.

For example, two online casino games might both have 95% RTP. With the first game, you might play 99 times without winning, only to hit it big on your 100th spin and win $95. With the second game, you could win smaller amounts on 30 out of 100 spins, totalling $95. Both games achieve the same 95% RTP.

Why Your Understanding of Casino RTP Matters in NZ

RTP is a real game-changer for Kiwi gamblers, whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out. Knowing the RTP empowers you with knowledge, letting you peek behind the curtain to see the potential returns on the games you play.

By checking a game's RTP, you can make smarter choices. Opting for games with higher RTP rates means you're potentially increasing your chances of getting a better return on your money over the long haul.

How To Calculate RTP?

Calculating the Return to Player (RTP) follows a simple formula. Essentially, it involves dividing the total amount returned to players by the total amount wagered.

For example, let's say a game accumulates $1,000,000 in bets and pays out $950,000 in winnings. In this scenario, the RTP would be calculated as 95%.

It's important to keep in mind that this percentage is derived from extensive rounds of play, considering an extended period. While this statistical measure provides an insight into the potential returns, it's vital to note that individual results can significantly fluctuate in the short term.

The process of determining RTP serves as a guiding light, offering an average expectation of returns over a vast number of rounds, rather than pinpointing precise outcomes in the immediate short-term gameplay. Understanding this distinction can help manage expectations and decisions while engaging in casino gaming.

Why Should I Pick An Online Casino With A High RTP?

Quite simply, the higher the value, the more money a player can expect to receive overtime, on average, when they play that game.

Many slot machines have the RTP of the game displayed for players to see, usually on the information or rules page of the game, so it is always something worth checking out.

Generally, in terms of RTP, anything with a figure of 98% or above is considered high, a mid-range or average game would fall into the 95% to 97.99% bracket, whilst anything below 94.99% would be regarded as low.

The actual RTP of a game is unlikely to be reached in one single session because, as has been mentioned, it is something that is calculated in the long term. However, the basic fact is that, on average, a player is likely to win more often in a game with a 98% RTP than one with a figure of 90%.

Online Casino Games With High RTP

Discover the world of online casino games with remarkably high Return to Player (RTP) rates. Explore these top picks renowned for their impressive RTP percentages, promising an enhanced potential for substantial returns on your wagers.

  • Mega Joker Slot: Boasts an RTP that can exceed 99%, making it a top choice for slot players seeking higher returns.
  • 1429 Uncharted Seas Slot: Known for its RTP of around 98.6%, making it a popular choice due to its high payout potential.
  • Blood Suckers Slot: Offers an RTP of approximately 98%, attracting players with its favorable odds.
  • Classic Blackjack: Often surpasses 99% RTP when played optimally, making it a go-to for blackjack fans seeking better returns.
  • Ooh Aah Dracula Slot: This horror-themed slot presents an RTP of about 99%, making it a popular choice among players seeking higher chances of winning and lucrative bonus features.
  • Aces and Eights Video Poker: Offering an RTP surpassing 99%, this video poker variation allows players to employ strategies and maximize their winning potential in a classic casino game setting.

RTP of Top Online Casino Games

Online casinos implement RTP in their games to establish an inherent house edge, ensuring their profitability while providing fair chances for players to win. Each game category - whether it's slots, roulette, or blackjack - has its unique RTP set by the game developers.

Understanding that each game has its own RTP allows you to make informed choices based on your preferences and desired risk level.

Roulette RTP

Roulette, a classic casino game, has varying RTPs depending on the variant you play. Generally, European Roulette tends to offer a higher RTP compared to American Roulette due to the additional double zero in the latter, which tilts the odds slightly in favor of the house.

Blackjack RTP

Blackjack, known for its relatively favorable odds among casino games, offers an RTP that can exceed 99% when played optimally. Strategies like card counting can further improve the odds in your favor.

Slots RTP

Slot games, popular due to their diverse themes and gameplay, vary widely in RTP. While some slots have RTPs above 95%, others might have rates closer to 90%. Exploring and choosing slots with higher RTP rates can potentially maximize your returns.

Video Poker RTP

Some video poker variations, such as Jacks or Better or Deuces Wild, boast RTPs above 99%, making them a favorite among experienced players looking for higher chances of winning.

Essential Tips for Online Casino Players

  1. Research and Compare: Before playing, check the RTP of various games to make informed choices.
  2. Manage Your Bankroll: Set limits on your wagers and stick to them to ensure responsible gaming.
  3. Opt for Higher RTP Games: Prioritize games with higher RTP rates for potentially better returns.
  4. Learn Game Strategies: For games like blackjack, understanding and utilizing strategies can improve your odds.
  5. Take Advantage of Bonuses: Some casinos offer bonuses and promotions that can enhance your gameplay and extend your bankroll.

Understanding RTP empowers you to make strategic choices, enhancing your overall gaming experience while maximizing your chances of winning. So, dive into the world of online casinos, armed with the knowledge of RTP, and let the games begin!

FAQ

What is RTP in online pokies, and why is it important for Kiwi players?

RTP, or Return to Player, is the percentage of wagered money that a pokie (slot game) returns to players over time. For Kiwi players, understanding RTP is vital as it gives you an idea of potential returns and helps you make smarter choices about which games to play. Remember, gambling should be fun, so always play responsibly.

How is the RTP of an online casino game calculated?

RTP is worked out by dividing the total amount returned to players by the total amount wagered. For example, if a game takes $1,000,000 NZD in bets and pays out $950,000 NZD in winnings, the RTP would be 95%.

Why do different casino games have different RTP percentages?

Each type of game, like pokies, roulette, or blackjack, is created by game developers with different RTPs. This sets the house edge while keeping the game fair. That's why you see different RTP rates across different games.

Do games with higher RTPs always mean more wins?

Games with higher RTPs give you a better chance of winning over the long haul, but they don't guarantee wins every time you play. RTP is a long-term guide, and your results can vary. Always gamble responsibly and within your budget.

Which online casino games have the highest RTPs?

Some video poker games, like Jacks or Better or Deuces Wild, can have RTPs over 99%. These are popular with players looking for better odds. Remember to check the specific game rules and RTP before playing.

Can you use strategies to improve RTP when playing casino games?

Yes, it depends on the game. In blackjack, using basic strategy or card counting can improve your chances. For pokies, choosing games with higher RTPs can help. Always learn the rules and strategies for each game you play.

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