The people who say 'something has changed' or 'the payouts are lower' etc etc may well be right.
Problem is, nobody is EVER going to know for sure if its true. Not me, not you, not anyone except the operators. The only possible 'real' type of 'evidence' might be from affiliates - if they are making more, you are losing more and vice-versa.
So, the only 'evidence' we can base these statements on is our own play and/or win/loss ratios over time.
Personally, my wins and losses are about the same as they were 4 years ago and, in some cases, Im well ahead (with RTG I am way ahead). However, with Rival Ive been taking a beating lately.
Now, there are people (even in this thread) who swear by Rival and think they are great, but my experience has been the opposite this year - so again it all comes down to personal experience.
Nobody on this issue is 'right' or 'wrong' because none of us has the information required to prove it either way, other than our own 'gut feeling' or our own figures (for those that keep them).
Its also important to note that the playing style and strategy that one employs can have a major effect on the bottom line. For instance, if you are someone who deposits say $25 a session and has your balance up to $150+, you should seriously consider cashing out - you have 6 more sessions worth of deposits there which could keep you going quite a while. If you are expecting to cashout $500+ from a small deposit, chances are your sessions are going to end in tears most of the time. How do I know this??....from learning the hard way. I have had many more cashouts and much more gambling time (and more big wins) since I started gambling that way. It isnt for everyone, but it works for me and it does make sense when you think about it. You also should bet according to your bankroll - if you start with $50 and are betting $2 a spin you are asking for trouble.
So if you think the software is worse than before, you need to change software.....if you think that maybe your strategy could be improved, then try a different approach with the same software. I dont see any sense in saying the casino is taking you for a ride, and then continuing to play there....after all, based on your opinion you are certainly going to lose....and nobody wants to do that.
Anyway, its a good thread and a worthwhile discussion provided it doesnt become personal or confrontational.