Return to Player (RTP) is arguably the most important metric when choosing which slot games to play. This percentage tells you the theoretical long-term payout of a game - and understanding it can significantly impact your gaming experience and bankroll management.
What is RTP?
RTP stands for Return to Player, expressed as a percentage. It represents the theoretical amount of money a slot machine returns to players over millions of spins. For example, a slot with 96% RTP theoretically pays back $96 for every $100 wagered over the long term.
RTP Quality Scale
Highest RTP Slots at Betpas
Here are the top-paying slot games currently available, ranked by their RTP percentages:
| Game Name | Provider | RTP | Volatility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mega Joker | NetEnt | 99.00% | Low |
| Blood Suckers | NetEnt | 98.00% | Low |
| Starmania | NextGen | 97.87% | Medium |
| White Rabbit Megaways | Big Time Gaming | 97.72% | High |
| 1429 Uncharted Seas | Thunderkick | 97.50% | Medium |
| Jokerizer | Yggdrasil | 97.40% | Medium |
| Codex of Fortune | NetEnt | 97.03% | High |
| Steam Tower | NetEnt | 97.04% | Medium |
| Sweet Bonanza | Pragmatic Play | 96.51% | High |
| Book of Dead | Play'n GO | 96.21% | High |
Understanding Volatility
RTP tells you how much returns over time, but volatility (or variance) tells you how those returns are distributed:
Low Volatility
Frequent smaller wins. Ideal for longer play sessions and smaller bankrolls. Less dramatic swings but also smaller maximum wins.
Medium Volatility
Balanced win distribution. Mix of small and medium wins with occasional larger payouts. Suitable for most players.
High Volatility
Rare but potentially massive wins. Requires larger bankroll and patience. Can have long dry spells followed by big hits.
RTP by Provider
Different game providers have varying approaches to RTP. Here's a breakdown of popular providers and their typical RTP ranges:
NetEnt
- Mega Joker 99.00%
- Blood Suckers 98.00%
- Starburst 96.09%
- Gonzo's Quest 95.97%
Pragmatic Play
- Sweet Bonanza 96.51%
- Gates of Olympus 96.50%
- The Dog House 96.51%
- Wolf Gold 96.01%
Play'n GO
- Reactoonz 96.51%
- Book of Dead 96.21%
- Fire Joker 96.15%
- Moon Princess 96.50%
Big Time Gaming
- White Rabbit 97.72%
- Bonanza 96.00%
- Extra Chilli 96.82%
- Lil Devil 96.44%
Slot Selection Strategies
- Prioritize RTP: Always check the RTP before playing. Aim for 96% or higher.
- Match volatility to bankroll: Low volatility for small bankrolls, high volatility if you can handle variance.
- Try demo mode first: Test games in free play before betting real money.
- Research bonus features: Understand how free spins and bonus rounds work.
- Check for RTP variations: Some casinos offer different RTP versions of the same game.
RTP vs Hit Frequency
Don't confuse RTP with hit frequency. A slot might have 96% RTP but only hit winning combinations 20% of spins. Another 96% RTP slot might hit 40% of spins but with smaller average wins. Both return the same amount long-term, but the experience is very different.
Progressive Jackpot Considerations
Progressive jackpot slots often have lower base RTPs (93-95%) because a portion of each bet feeds the jackpot pool. If you're chasing the massive jackpot, this trade-off might be worthwhile. For regular play, non-progressive games typically offer better value.
Where to Find RTP Information
Always verify RTP before playing:
- Game info screen: Click the "i" or menu button in most slots to see RTP and rules
- Provider websites: Official game sheets from NetEnt, Pragmatic, etc.
- Casino help section: Many casinos publish RTP lists for all games
- Independent review sites: Slots review websites track RTPs across casinos
Responsible Gaming Reminder
Even slots with 99% RTP carry a house edge. Slots are entertainment, not an income source. Set strict loss limits before playing, take regular breaks, and never chase losses. If gambling stops being fun, seek help from responsible gaming organizations.
For more casino gaming guides, check out our articles on slot games, live casino, and bonus campaigns.