The share that counts
Game contribution is the proportion of a stake counted towards wagering progress under the applicable terms. The percentage can differ between games or types of action. A percentage without its scope does not identify which games or transactions it covers.
A different measure from RTP
Contribution is a rule for counting activity under particular conditions. RTP describes a game’s theoretical return over many plays. Both may be expressed as percentages, but they measure different things. Neither a contribution rate nor RTP predicts the outcome of a single spin or guarantees that a balance will cover a wagering requirement.
How a contribution percentage changes the counter
The basic arithmetic is counted turnover = settled stake × contribution percentage. For a €2 settled stake and 50% contribution, the counter receives €1. With 10% it receives €0.20. This records progress under a rule; it does not describe how much was won or lost.
| Contribution | Counted turnover |
|---|---|
| 100% | €2.00 |
| 50% | €1.00 |
| 10% | €0.20 |
| 0% | €0.00 |
Contribution in a worked example
A stake at 100%
In this hypothetical example, a €10 stake on a game that contributes 100% adds €10 to the wagering counter.
The same stake at 10%
The same €10 on a game that contributes 10% adds €1. Ten times as much play is needed to move the counter by the same amount.
Mixed sessions
If you switch games, work out each game's share separately and add them up; a single average can hide the difference.
Zero contribution and exclusion are not synonyms
A game with zero contribution may be permitted while adding nothing to the counter. An excluded game may be prohibited while a bonus is active, with different consequences. A table that lists 0% does not by itself settle whether play is allowed. The exclusion clause and its scope need to be read alongside the percentage.
A category label can also have exceptions. If a table says slots contribute at a stated rate but a separate list names specific excluded titles or features, the general category alone does not identify the treatment of those cases.
Reconcile a counter without guessing
Use settled transaction entries, the contribution rule and the applicable version of the terms. Compare the counter before and after the recorded settlement. Voided stakes, unresolved rounds and rounding can require separate handling. If the numbers still disagree, provide the round reference and ask how that transaction was counted; the balance change alone is insufficient evidence.
Questions and answers
Does 100% contribution mean a stake is refunded?
No. It means the full eligible stake is counted towards the wagering requirement. The game's result determines the separate balance movement.
Sources
Further reading from the British regulator. Its legal requirements apply to its own jurisdiction; the examples here explain terminology.