This is the second part of a column by our expert, Solsiree McGowan. She is the Director of Product Compliance at Scientific Games. It focuses on a gaming machine’s return percentage to players (RTP). It debunks myths about slots and winning, often discussed on sites like ReviewCasino Canada.
After the great feedback on the first part, I will explain the science behind a slot machine and its parts.
Previously, I addressed questions such as: Can slot machines be tampered with? How does randomness work? What role does math play? What are the chances of winning on a slot machine? Now, let’s dive into some other intriguing aspects of these games.
What About the Guaranteed Return to Players?
Like any other industry, the gaming industry is first a business. This business promises users a chance to win prizes. They expect to make a profit, too. We can all agree that this is the fundamental purpose of any business. Slot machines and games of chance are designed to profit their operators. They must also guarantee players some wins. If not, players would avoid the casinos.
This careful balance between the two factors is determined in the following way:
The RTP is the percentage of coins played that is expected to be paid out by the slot machine over the game cycle. This means the total money the game has awarded after several spins. Those spins should cover all possible combinations.
The theoretical hold percent is the percentage of coins played that the slot game keeps. It is the operator’s profit.
Our definitions must clarify one point. When we say “money awarded by the game,” we do not mean the money collected by one player. An 80% return in a game of chance does not guarantee you will return at least 80% of your investment. You could bet $100 and lose everything. Alternatively, you could hit a big jackpot. If you keep playing instead of cashing out, you might lose most or all of your winnings.
This means that 80% of the money wagered will be paid out as prizes to some players. We can use the coin flip example from the first part of this article. It’s the easiest way to compare to calculating an RTP. We can use two methods to do this. Yet, both ways will provide the same value:
The Requirement for Minimum Return to Player
The return to the player is a calculated number. So, slot game makers can design games with any return percentage, even over 100%. Each gaming jurisdiction sets a minimum return for slot games. This is to protect the gambling community. This is due to a better focus on responsible gaming. In Nevada, slot machines must return at least 75%. In Kansas, the minimum is 87%. In Singapore, it’s 90%.
Let’s now debunk a few Lets:
- “The slot machines have”a well-defined payment cycle.”
FALSE. Every outcome has an equal chance. Do not mix the payment cycle with all possible combinations. Each event/gameplay is completely independent from past outcomes.
“The longer I play, the better my chances of winning.”
FALSE. The number of game sessions has no impact on your odds of winning.A high-volatility slot machine may need a longer session to award a grand prize.
- “There are slot games that pay more than others.”
FALSE. “Games in casinos usually have the same or similar RTP.” Differences in a game’s hit frequency and volatility can mislead players. They may think they pay more than others.
- “There are hot and cold” slot machines.”
FALSE. The Random Number Generator (RNG) guarantees that each event is entirely independent, with no connection between one game and the next.
- “The machine has already” paid; it will not pay again.”
FALSE. All possible o” outcomes are available at all times.
- “The machines pay at a “certain time during the day.”
FALSE. In practice, the games can run for days without a win. Or, they could quickly award frequent jackpot hits.
Take a Look at the Return Percentage
Slot machines aren’t enigmatic devices with hidden secrets. Before a gaming machine is built, multiple steps are carefully carried out. They ensure it behaves in a not entirely predictable but statistically known way. It must also act regardless of external factors.
These steps include careful math, setting up RNGs, and testing. They also need approval from independent regulators. This ensures every spin or game is fair and random. It keeps them independent of the previous one. This makes the games exciting and unpredictable for players.
The gaming sector is very particular. It advertises “luck or chance.” But, a math-based game design rules the industry’s behavior. The industry’s balance is intriguing. It blends chance and science. Outcomes are random but can be predicted over time. Slot machines are calibrated with settings like RTP and volatility. They aim to engage players while keeping a slight edge for operators.
Players should check the return percentage of any slot game. Use it to decide whether to play. The RTP, often in the game’s rules, shows the return rate to players. It is a theoretical percentage of total wagers over time. A higher RTP implies a better long-term return. But, individual results can vary. The RTP is a good indicator. Yet, slot machines are random in the short term. This can cause unexpected wins and losses. It adds to the thrill and unpredictability of the game.
Casinos maintain a slight advantage through mathematical design, often called the “house edge.” This small percentage is embedded in every game to guarantee the casino remains profitable over time.
Yet, this edge doesn’t mean players don’t win. It simply states that casinos seek to operate sustainably while providing fun games.
Players can improve their gaming by knowing how slot machines work and the RTP. See slot machines as entertainment. The fun comes from the experience, not from winning money. Responsible gaming practices can enhance enjoyment and reduce risks. So, set time and budget limits. Informed players can maximize their gaming. They can enjoy the graphics and themes or chase a jackpot. But, they must keep realistic expectations.
