Casino games are finding more popularity around the world with online slots still leading the pack.

Regulators play an important role in making sure that these games are fair, safe, and provide entertainment for players while also being rewarding. The Malta Gaming Authority is considered one of the top casino regulators in the industry right now as they work for both the player and the casino.

A recent change in regulation by the MGA is set to adjust the RTP (or Return to Player) threshold on games available at online casinos. But how will this affect your gameplay?

What Is RTP and Why Does It Matter?

The Return to Player percentage on a casino game indicates how much that particular game could pay out over its lifetime.

For instance, if an online slot has an RTP of 96%, it should pay out wins on 96% of all bets placed throughout the lifetime of the slot’s running time.

It also provides the house edge of the game in question. Having this information in hand, it makes sense that the higher the RTP, the lower the house edge, and the better the chance of landing a win.

While most online slots have an average RTP of 96% to 98%, table games usually offer a far lower rate. Regulators ensure that the games created by software providers meet these RTP standards and provide a fair playing experience for casino customers.

RTP Changes by the Malta Gaming Authority

Most would agree that the RTP of an online casino game is important but with percentages that vary so slightly, most are equally rewarding.

In May, the MGA held a closed consultation that proposed changing the minimum RTP of casino games in their jurisdiction to only 85%. According to the MGA, the response varied.

“All respondents welcomed the MGA’s proposal to lower the RTP [threshold], although it added that some respondents said the ideal RTP threshold was still around 92%, while others set it as low as 75% and two argued there should not be a minimum.”

“One respondent clarified that removing the RTP requirement does not mean that operators will no longer strive to maintain adequate RTP levels to avoid risks relating to the well-being of customers, as the market conditions will force the industry to maintain an appropriate RTP standard.”

It was noted that by setting the RTP as low as 85% for certain games, an “optimal playing experience” could be created. Especially as this would only take place on specific games in certain regions.

One particular region mentioned was Germany where the government is set to implement a 5.3% turnover tax that would affect return to player rates in order to offset costs. Legally being allowed to lower the RTP of slots could make a huge difference.

Another upside of lowering the RTP could be that providers aim to boost player experiences by creating even more exciting and rewarding bonus features. The MGA commented:

“The proposed change to the minimum return threshold will provide flexibility to operators that would be free to apply various RTPs as desired based on, inter alia, market conditions and competition levels.”

How this will affect the market as a whole (or at all) remains to be seen but for now, it’s comforting to know that the MGA is involved with keeping gameplay fair. In many regulated jurisdictions, there are no minimum RTP rates set at all.

If you’re looking for a top-rated MGA regulated casino to explore, take a look at our recommendations below and sign up for an account.

The post Malta Gaming Authority lowers minimum RTP to only 85% appeared first on Top Spot Casinos.

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