The RTP setting casinos don't advertise

The same slot can pay back 96% at one casino and 91% at another. Here's how to tell which version you're playing.

Here's the closest thing to a real "slot secret" we know: many popular slots are released in several versions with different return-to-player settings. A provider might offer 96.2%, 94.2%, 92.2% and even lower variants of the same game. The graphics, features and sound are identical. Only the maths changes.

The casino chooses which version to run. Most players never notice — but over a few thousand spins the difference is real money.

How big is the difference?

On €1 spins, the expected cost of 1,000 spins is about €38 at 96.2% RTP and about €78 at 92.2%. Same game, double the expected loss.

The game looks the same. The bill doesn't.

How to check the version

1. Open the game and look for the "i", "?" or menu icon.
2. Scroll through the rules until you find "Theoretical RTP" or "Return to player".
3. Some games list several numbers — for example base game and bonus buy. Note the main one.

It takes thirty seconds. If you see a number well below the provider's published maximum, consider playing the same game somewhere else.

Why it's legal

Regulators require the RTP to be disclosed and certified, not to be the maximum. As long as the number in the help screen is accurate, the casino is within the rules.

Use our RTP table to see the highest published versions of popular slots.