RTP vs RNG in Online Casino Games: What You Need to Know

Online casino games may be simple on the surface, but there are a lot of things working behind the scenes to make them possible. This includes advanced concepts such as RNG and RTP, which are usually shortened for the sake of brevity. However, this can lead to confusion among players, especially when the terms seem similar at first glance.

This article will demystify RTP and RNG by giving you a detailed explanation of each. Learn all about them in this OG24 article.

In-Depth with RNG

RNG stands for Random Number Generator, which is the backbone of all online casino games. It is used to produce a completely random sequence of numbers, which is then used to determine the outcome of the round. This approach leaves no room open for the failure of physical parts, guaranteeing every reel spin is 100% random and fair.

Crypto casinos have taken this a step further with Probably Fair technology. Through it, players do not have to take the casino’s word that every round is truly random. Provably Fair games allow you to verify that the outcome of each round hasn’t been tampered with, which goes a long way toward winning players over.

What is RTP?

Return to Player, abbreviated as RTP, indicates the odds of winning in a particular game. It calculates the average return a player gets for every spin of the reels or a played round in a table game. The higher a game’s RTP is, the more likely it is to win each round.

What kind of RTP you can expect varies from game to game. In slots, most games give you an RTP of 95% or higher. Table games are usually even higher than that, with strategically played blackjack and poker offering values of 99%. The percentage gives you an idea of how frequently you’ll win each round. With a 95% RTP, you can expect to win 95 out of every 100 rounds played.

However, it’s worth pointing out RTP isn’t a guarantee. Luck still plays a factor in whether or not you’ll come out ahead. Over a long enough time period, everyone’s results will match the listed RTP. However, individual gaming sessions can still result in huge losses or jaw-dropping wins.

The Difference Between RNG and RTP

The easiest way to separate these two ideas in your head is to imagine them as car parts. RNG is the engine – it’s what makes your car move. Meanwhile, RTP is an indicator on the dashboard telling you about the engine. It gives you an idea of what to expect, but that’s about it.

Because RTP and RNG are linked so closely, it’s natural that players occasionally mix them up. However, by keeping their differences in mind, it’s easy to keep them separate in your head. It also helps that RNG isn’t something players often have to think about. As long as a regulator oversees a casino, you can count on the random number generator working as intended.