Roulette is one of the most popular casino games, known for its simple rules and exciting gameplay. However, not all roulette games are created equal. Some online casinos offer lower Return to Player (RTP) percentages, reducing a player’s chances of winning in the long run.
If you’ve ever played roulette and felt like the odds were stacked against you, it could be due to a lower RTP. In this blog, we will explore why some online casinos offer reduced RTP roulette games and how you can avoid them to maximize your winnings.
What is RTP in Roulette?
1. Understanding Return to Player (RTP)
RTP, or Return to Player, is the percentage of total wagered money that a casino game returns to players over time. In roulette, RTP varies depending on the type of game you play. For example:
- European Roulette has an RTP of 3%
- French Roulette has an RTP of 65% (with the La Partage rule)
- American Roulette has an RTP of 74%
A higher RTP means a better chance of winning in the long run. However, some online casinos lower the RTP to increase their profits, making it harder for players to win.
Why Do Some Online Casinos Offer Lower Roulette RTP?
1. Maximizing Casino Profits
Casinos are businesses, and their goal is to make money. By lowering the RTP of roulette, they increase the house edge, which ensures they make more profit over time. This is particularly common in unregulated or less reputable online casinos.
2. Custom Game Variations with Worse Odds
Some online casinos offer custom roulette versions that look exciting but come with unfavorable rules. These variations may:
- Add extra numbers to the wheel, increasing the house edge
- Change payout structures, reducing potential winnings
- Introduce side bets that seem rewarding but have low RTP
Always check the rules of a roulette game before playing to ensure it follows standard payout and wheel structures.
3. American Roulette as the Default Option
Many online casinos primarily offer American Roulette instead of European or French versions. American Roulette includes an extra double-zero (00), which increases the house edge and lowers RTP to 94.74%. Some players don’t realize the difference and unknowingly play a version with worse odds.
4. Lack of Player Awareness
Many players, especially beginners, do not pay attention to RTP before playing. Casinos take advantage of this lack of knowledge by offering games with a lower RTP without clearly disclosing it.
5. Bonuses and Promotions with Hidden Costs
Some casinos lower the RTP of their roulette games to offset the cost of promotions and bonuses. While they may offer generous welcome bonuses, they make up for it by tweaking game mechanics to favor the house. This is something to watch for when playing Canadian roulette online, as some platforms may adjust the odds to increase their advantage.
How to Identify Online Casinos with Low RTP Roulette
1. Check the Game Rules and RTP
Before playing, look for the RTP information in the game’s settings or help section. Reputable online casinos disclose this information to players. If a casino does not list the RTP, it could be a red flag.
2. Avoid American Roulette When Possible
If a casino only offers American Roulette, you may want to look for another platform. European and French Roulette offer better odds and should be your preferred choice.
3. Be Wary of Custom Variants
Some casinos introduce unique versions of roulette that may seem appealing but come with unfavorable rules. Always compare the game’s structure with standard roulette formats to ensure fairness.
4. Read Player Reviews and Ratings
Player reviews can provide insights into whether a casino is fair or manipulative. Look for feedback from experienced players about the fairness of roulette games on the platform.
5. Choose Licensed and Regulated Casinos
Licensed casinos are required to maintain fair game mechanics and disclose RTP percentages. Regulatory authorities such as the UK Gambling Commission, Malta Gaming Authority, and Curacao Gaming ensure casinos follow fair play guidelines.
How to Avoid Low RTP Roulette Games
1. Play at Reputable Online Casinos
Stick to well-known and licensed online casinos that have a reputation for fairness. These platforms offer standard roulette games with proper RTP percentages.
2. Stick to European or French Roulette
If you want the best odds, always choose European or French Roulette. The single-zero wheel of European Roulette offers an RTP of 97.3%, while the La Partage rule in French Roulette increases it to 98.65%.
3. Check Game Providers
Reputable game providers like NetEnt, Evolution Gaming, and Playtech create fair roulette games with transparent RTP. If a casino offers games from lesser-known or unverified providers, proceed with caution.
4. Avoid Unrealistic Bonus Offers
If a casino is offering extremely high bonuses, it might compensate by lowering RTP in its games. Read the terms and conditions carefully to understand how bonuses impact gameplay.
5. Test the Game in Free Mode
Many casinos allow players to try games in demo mode. Use this feature to test different roulette versions before wagering real money.
Conclusion
Not all online roulette games offer the same winning chances. Some casinos lower RTP to maximize profits, making it harder for players to win. By understanding how RTP works and knowing how to identify low RTP games, you can make informed decisions and improve your chances of winning.
Always choose regulated casinos, stick to standard roulette formats, and verify the RTP before playing. With the right approach, you can enjoy a fair and rewarding online roulette experience.
