When choosing a casino game, an important factor to consider is the return to player percentage (RTP). Traditionally, RTP has been a set, static figure, offering players a glimpse into the long-term expected payout of a game. But several newer games now come with varying or even dynamic RTPs, making the answer to “what is the RTP of game X?” less clear-cut. Here we take a closer look at what this all means and how you can better understand the mechanics behind your favorite games.
Introduction to RTP
RTP stands for ‘return to player’, a term used to represent the expected payout percentage of a game. For instance, a slot with a 96% RTP will theoretically return $96 for every $100 wagered. However, the RTP is calculated as an average over millions of spins. Players should therefore view it as a long-term average, not a short-term guarantee.
Still, many players look for games with high RTPs. Players who want to play slots online and cash out their winnings quickly should opt for games that clearly disclose an RTP of 96% or higher (source: https://www.pokerscout.com/casino/fast-withdrawal-casinos/). A higher RTP generally indicates better long-term returns, making such games more appealing to those who prioritize consistent payouts over high-risk, high-reward scenarios.
Dynamic RTP Explained
Traditionally, RTP has been a static value that is fixed during development and unchangeable once a game goes live. However, advances in gaming technology and shifting regulatory landscapes have given rise to dynamic RTP, a system where payout percentages can adjust in real time or under specific conditions. Such varieties can for example occur:
- By operators selecting from predefined RTP tiers (e.g., 94%, 96%, or 98%).
- Mid-game, based on player activity or algorithmic triggers.
- Post-launch, to comply with regulatory changes or market conditions.
There are two primary technologies that enable dynamic RTP:
Compensated Game Control
This method uses algorithms to monitor a game’s payout performance in real time. If actual RTP deviates from the target, for example due to a streak of large wins, the system tweaks the odds of future outcomes to “compensate.” For instance, after a jackpot payout, the game might temporarily reduce the probability of high-value wins to stabilize long-term RTP.
Variable RTP Configurations
Some games offer multiple RTP versions (e.g., 94%, 96%, or 98%) that operators can select before deployment. While not dynamic mid-game, this flexibility allows casinos to tailor games to regional regulations or player preferences. 
This is important for players to know about, as the same game might have different RTPs depending on the chosen casino platform.
How Players Might Encounter Dynamic RTP
To better understand how dynamic RTP works in practice, here are a few real-world examples of what you might experience as a player:
- Bonus Features: Certain bonus rounds may have enhanced payout structures, temporarily “increasing the RTP”.
- Bet Sizing: In some games, placing higher bets can unlock additional features or improved RTP percentages.
Some games tie RTP adjustments to player choices. Higher bets might unlock bonus features with better odds, or progressive jackpots could temporarily boost base-game RTP to offset prize pool contributions. However, these mechanics rarely alter the game’s overall RTP; they simply redistribute payouts across different features.
Recently, there have also been discussions about personalized RTP adjustments based on criteria such as loyalty tiers, historical behaviors, and session patterns, which can be implemented thanks to AI. But due to regulatory frameworks, this is easier said than done.
Can the Tech be Trusted?
With the introduction of varying and dynamic RTPs, concerns about fairness and transparency naturally arise. Players may wonder whether these fluctuating RTPs are designed to manipulate outcomes or disadvantage the player. But in general, there shouldn’t be any cause for concern.
Reputable online casinos and game developers operate under strict regulatory oversight. Regulatory bodies like the UK Gambling Commission have clear rules on the communication of RTP to ensure players have all the information at hand.
To ensure safe and random game outcomes, slots and other casino games make use of RNG (random number generator) technology. Through mathematical algorithms, each game round is determined at random and without any connection to previous outcomes. Independent testing agencies, such as eCOGRA and iTech Labs, audit games to ensure that RNGs function correctly and that RTPs are within the stated ranges.
But while the technology of modern, trusted game providers can be trusted, it is also important for players to do their own research. This is both to ensure that the platform they are playing on and the game of their choosing are trustworthy, but also to double-check the RTP. Since some games allow casinos to choose between different RTP levels, it’s important to check the game’s RTP on the specific site and not just in general.
Conclusion
The RTP of a game is one indicator of which types of payouts players can expect – at least in theory. With changes to how game RTPs work, including the introduction of varying and dynamic numbers, it’s important to stay informed and cautious. 
Always take the time to check a game’s paytable to see what the RTP and volatility are, and any potential actions that can alter the RTP, including the bet value, triggering of specific features, etc. No matter what the RTP is, it is crucial to remember that the number does not give any guarantee of short-term wins, but should rather be treated as an indicator of payouts on average and over time.
