Many games today are released in multiple versions of the original, so seeing variations of the same game these days is pretty common .
🤩 Each version is released with a slightly different Return to Player percentage.
Table of contents
Why the same game can have different returns
Modern slot studios frequently produce multiple RTP “profiles” for one and the same title. One casino might offer a 96.5 % version, whilst another uses a 94% or even a 92% build.
These differences generally boil down to operator preference and bonus structures. Lower-RTP variants allow casinos to offset promotional costs or fund jackpots, whilst higher-RTP versions are normally used to attract experienced players.
If you're testing some new game, for instance, start with the no-deposit free spins UK players can claim, as they usually reflect the very lowest-stakes version of the slot and provide great insight into how this variant behaves.
These free spins can be a good preview tool to see how often bonus rounds will trigger or if the hit frequency feels tighter than usual.
Even with wagering terms applied to free spins, they at least allow you to get a sense of gameplay patterns without risking real money.
How to identify which version you’re playing
The most straightforward method of checking is in the information panel of the game. Most slots have a section entitled Game Rules or Paytable Information, and near the bottom, it mentions the percentage for RTP.
đź“Ł If that figure is lower than what the reviewers or comparison sites mention, you are probably on a reduced-RTP build.
Some casinos mention this in their terms or on a fairness page dedicated to the topic, but if you cannot find it mentioned, get in touch with customer support and ask them what version of RTP they use for that game.
👉🏻 Games from developers like Play'n GO, Pragmatic Play, and Red Tiger are well-known to come in a number of RTP options. These differences may seem small, but they can have a real, measurable impact over time.
This disparity becomes more pronounced with longer sessions or higher stakes. The gap becomes more noticeable across longer sessions or higher stakes.
When lower rtp might still make sense
Sometimes, a slightly reduced RTP is attached to certain promotions or extras that players find worth the trade-off.
For example, a casino may have that version in order to offer it with increased loyalty rewards, access to special prize drops, or faster withdrawals.
If those perks align with how you prefer playing, the trade-off can be acceptable.
Some exclusive slot tournaments or jackpot networks also require specific RTP settings. In such cases, the potential prizes or leaderboard bonuses offset the mathematical difference.
🗝️ The key is to understand the variant in play so that you can decide whether the surrounding benefits justify it.
Using free spins and bonuses to compare variants
Free spins are excellent for gauging the behaviour of a slot before depositing.
If during these you notice more regular feature triggers or several high-value wins in a short sequence, this variant is more likely to be of higher volatility. A steadier stream of small payouts suggests a low-variance setup.
Before you begin making the transition from bonus play to cash wagers, ensure that the slot's volatility and RTP are the same.
⚙️ Some platforms route promotional sessions through different servers that can make the maths slightly different. A glance at the info screen will confirm what you're dealing with.
Those extra spins are not about the potential wins, but about a test run. They allow you to see how often special features come in, how long it takes to trigger free rounds, and how the balance moves over time.
What to look for in the info panel
Every developer has their info screens set up differently, but the most telling information is as follows:
- RTP%: the headline figure showing average theoretical return.
- Volatility rating: normally marked as Low, Medium, or High on the level of risk.
- Feature frequency: How often bonuses or free spins pop up.
- Maximum win: the highest payout displayed as a multiple of stake.
Comparison should be something you consider whenever trying out a new casino.
Given enough time, a pattern does emerge in which one particular site may consistently deliver higher-RTP builds, whilst another focuses more on the frequency of prize-drop events.
Quick checklist before you spin
- Check the info panel for the RTP figure.
- Note the volatility level to match your risk tolerance.
- Use free spin promotions to test gameplay flow.
- If you are unsure, ask the support staff which RTP build is live.
- Keep a simple session record to track outcomes across sites.
Recognising these small but significant details helps you separate appearance from performance. Two identical-looking games can behave completely differently depending on which version is active.
Conclusion
Slot design has become increasingly sophisticated, and in return, that means players need to be more watchful.
By learning how to recognise variant settings, you can approach every session with more confidence and fewer surprises.
Spend your free spins experimenting with them, read over the RTP data before investing real funds, and keep track of which casinos consistently serve up the version that treats you best.
🔥 What seems like a minor tweak in the back can make a significant difference over time, and all it takes is a little awareness to turn that knowledge into better play.
Read about more online slot games here.
Learn more about the online casino industry in our blog section.
