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A Player's Guide to Return to Player (RTP) and House Advantage

by Myra Isenberg (2025-08-11)

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American Roulette: This variation was developed later to increase the casino's advantage. This might seem like a minor change, but its effect on the odds is substantial. European Roulette: The wheel features 37 pockets in total.

Should you tip the croupier? Do ask for clarification: If you are unsure about a rule, a payout, or how to place a bet, don't hesitate to ask the dealer for help. Don't use your phone at the table: This is to prevent cheating and to keep the game moving. It's a way of showing appreciation for good service and is always valued. Don't blame the dealer for your losses: The dealer has no control over the outcome of the game.

These rules are not available in American Roulette, further solidifying the European/French version as the superior choice. La Partage ("The Divide"): If you have placed an even-money bet and the ball lands on '0', you immediately get half of your stake back. En Prison ("In Prison"): When the ball lands on '0', your even-money bet is "imprisoned" for the next spin.

An Added Advantage in French Roulette
To make things even better for the player, some European Roulette tables (often called French Roulette) feature special rules that apply to even-money bets (like Red/Black or Odd/Even) when the ball lands on zero.

Do join a table properly: Find an empty seat and place your cash on the table to buy chips. Don't touch the cards: In many casino games, like Baccarat and some versions of Blackjack, players are not allowed to touch the cards. Do know the hand signals in Blackjack: In Blackjack, use hand signals to indicate your decisions. Don't touch your chips after betting: Once you have placed your bet in the designated betting circle and the game is in progress (e.g., the cards are being dealt or the roulette wheel is spinning), do not touch your chips.

The United Kingdom: The UK has one of the most mature and robust regulatory systems in the world, overseen by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC). Parts of the USA: Following a 2018 Supreme Court decision, casino states like New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Michigan have legalized and regulated online casinos, creating thriving local markets. Sweden and Denmark: This has increased player choice while maintaining strong regulatory oversight.

For most people, a trip to the casino is about the thrill of the game and the hope of a modest win. From anonymous software engineers to World War II veterans, the stories behind the biggest casino wins are as fascinating as the amounts themselves.

When choosing an online slot, many players focus on the theme, graphics, or the Return to Player (RTP) percentage. Understanding volatility can help you select a slot that matches your budget, playing style, and risk tolerance.

By following these simple guidelines, you'll contribute to a positive atmosphere and casino ensure a great experience for yourself and everyone around you. Don't take photos or videos: Most casinos have a strict no-photography policy on the main gaming floor to protect the privacy of other patrons and the security of the games. Do know the dress code: It's always a good idea to check in advance. Behavior Away From the Tables
Beyond the tables, there are a few other general rules to keep in mind.

Do respect other players' space and concentration: At the slot machines, don't hover over someone who is playing.

When choosing a slot game, looking for one with a high RTP (generally 96% or above) can give you a better chance of a winning session. Understanding Return to Player (RTP)
If a slot machine has an RTP of 96%, it means that for every $100 bet, it is programmed to pay back $96 on average. The remaining 4% is the house edge.

Players attempting to access casinos from these locations may use VPNs, but they do so at their own risk, with no legal recourse if they encounter issues with an operator. Navigating Gambling Prohibitions
Governments in these countries actively try to block access to online casino sites and may even penalize players and operators.

The Casino's Built-In Profit Margin
The house edge is a percentage representing the average profit that a casino makes from a player's bet. This doesn't mean you will lose exactly $2 on every $100 wagered.

Who should play them?: Low volatility slots are ideal for new players, those with a smaller budget, or players who are more risk-averse. Examples: Games like Starburst by NetEnt are classic examples of low volatility slots. The trade-off: While you'll get lots of winning spins, you are very unlikely to hit a massive, life-changing jackpot on a low volatility slot.

Operating in Unregulated Territories
A "grey market" exists in countries where there are no specific laws that prohibit online gambling, but there is also no local licensing system. While the government doesn't explicitly permit it, they also typically do not prosecute individuals for playing at these sites.

Slot Machines: The house edge can vary dramatically, typically ranging from 2% to 15% or casino more. Baccarat (Banker Bet): The house edge is around 1.06%, making it another game with favorable odds. House Advantage in Different Casino Games:

Blackjack (with basic strategy): Can be as low as 0.5%, casino making it one of the most player-friendly games. American Roulette: With both a '0' and a '00' on the wheel, the house edge jumps to 5.26%. European Roulette: This is more favorable than its American counterpart.

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