Ever wondered how slots and other casino games decide between a win and a loss? It’s all down to random number generators (RNGs), the complex systems that run behind the scenes to process results. But how do they work?
In this post, we’ll explain what RNGs are in more detail and describe how they work at online casinos. Whether you’re a seasoned casino player or a newcomer, you’ll know all the essential facts about RNG systems by the time you reach the end.
Table of Contents
What is RNG?
At online casinos, a random number generator is a piece of software that replicates the randomness and transparency of games played at brick-and-mortar venues.
If you’ve ever played card games at a land-based casino, you’ll know that dealers use carefully shuffled decks and are closely monitored to make sure they follow strict rules. Games proceed in the same way each time and outcomes are free of human interference. Players can relax and focus on the gaming experience with no need to worry about fairness.
RNG casino games are designed to deliver that same peace of mind. There are thousands of RNG-driven games on the market: slots, poker, blackjack, baccarat, roulette, and any number of others, all relying on random number generators.
As a player, you’ll never see an RNG in action and may not even know it’s there, but it’s nevertheless vital to deliver honest results.
There are two types of RNG: True Random Number Generators (TRNGs) and Pseudorandom Number Generators (PRNGs). What’s the difference?
TRNGs
TRNGs use unpredictable real-world actions and processes (e.g. electronic noise) to trigger outcomes. These provide totally random results, which is why they’re widely used for security and cryptography software, as well as other digital products that require truly unpredictable outcomes.
Despite their effectiveness, TRNGs can be more time-consuming, costly, and more complex to implement than PRNGs.
PRNGs
PRNGs use algorithms to generate number sequences that appear random, but aren’t quite as randomised as those created by TRNGs. Why? Because they start building sequences from a “seed” (an initial value), which means that it is theoretically possible to work out outcomes.
However, PRNGs still essentially deliver random results because the likelihood of anyone predicting those is highly unlikely — close to impossible. As a result, software providers are legally entitled to use PRNGs in their games.
How RNG Works in Online Casinos
Random number generator casino games are crafted to provide a fair betting experience. An RNG uses an algorithm to rapidly produce strings of numbers that are totally isolated and independent — no two numerical sequences are identical.
All online slots are powered by an RNG, for instance, but how does it decide the outcome of each spin?
- Each number is linked to a specific position on the reels.
- Whenever you push the ‘spin’ button, the RNG selects a randomly generated sequence and displays the corresponding arrangement of symbols. This may or may not contain symbols in the positions and quantities required to award wins.
- The next time you hit the ‘spin’ button, the RNG will display another random symbol layout — potentially awarding another win.
However, random number generator casino technology can cause many spins or hands to pass without a win. Just as a croupier may not deal great hole cards for long stretches during poker games, RNGs can deliver multiple non-winning outcomes in a row, too.
While RNGs are essential in slots and other fully virtual games, some live casino games use them during bonus features, too. For instance, a bonus round may not require direct interaction from a dealer and incorporate virtual gameplay instead (e.g. an automated slot to award extra wins).
In this case, an RNG would be crucial to ensure a random outcome each time and offer a fair gaming experience.
How RNG Ensures Fair Play
Countless games at online casinos use an RNG to determine the results of each round. But what is RNG technology’s role in ensuring fair play for every single player in every single round?
In RNG casino games, each outcome (e.g. the symbols on the reels at the end of a spin or the cards in a starting hand) is unaffected by previous results. It’s independent, unbiased, and unknowable by anyone — even the most experienced player. There is no human interference in the outcome at any point.
RNG technology prevents players or operators from predicting what will happen in the next spin or deal. The same winning symbol combination could land twice in a row, but this would simply be a random outcome according to the algorithm running constantly behind the scenes. On the other hand, those same symbols may not hit those same positions again for a long time.
When the system powering RNG casino games is based on randomness, even seasoned aficionados can’t tell exactly what will happen next.
With this in mind, all players can rest assured that they have an equal chance of winning. When 100 people playing an online slot at the same time hit the ‘spin’ button, any of them could walk away with a prize.
Who Audits RNG Systems?
For any casino UK site licensed by the Gambling Commission, regular RNG auditing is a must. Licence holders are required to submit the results of RNG tests to confirm that new and updated games comply with current regulations.
This applies to all types of random number generator casino games, including slots, virtual sports events, and virtual table games.
A number of independent agencies provide thorough RNG testing and certification services for the UK gambling industry. These include:
- eCommerce Online Gaming Regulation and Assurance (eCOGRA)
- iTech Labs
- Gaming Laboratories International (GLI)
- BMM Testlabs
- Gaming Associates Europe Ltd
eCOGRA is one of the most popular agencies — you’ll see its badge in the footer of many UK casino sites. But any reputable agency approved by the Gambling Commission should be able to verify that RNG casino games offer a fair player experience.
Myths About RNG and Online Casinos
RNG Games are Rigged
Have you ever seen another player suggest a game is “rigged” because they didn’t win? They might believe that the software powering a game is manipulating the outcome to ensure that the casino unfairly wins again and again.
For example, countless players prioritise jackpots slots for the chance to win huge payouts. If they place a large number of bets without managing to scoop anywhere close to the top prize, they may assume that the game is rigged or cheating. They might accuse the casino of trying to fool them by promising big money they have no intention of paying out.
In reality, licensed online casino operators never rig games. Not only are the best casino UK sites carefully regulated by the Gambling Commission to prevent such foul play, it’s simply never worth trying to cheat customers — the resulting fallout would cause immense damage to the operator’s reputation.
RNG Games Pay Out More or Less Based on the Time
Some players may be convinced that games pay out more at certain times. For example, they might advise others to only play a slot late at night as it will award more wins because fewer people will be using it at the same time.
However, there’s no truth to this — RNGs function constantly in games. They remain just as effective at all times, regardless of player numbers or time. Each outcome is unpredictable and fair, giving all players an equal chance to win.
With the function of a casino RNG explained, people who believe this myth may realise that they can play the games they want to at any time.
Winning and Losing Streaks are Real
We’ve all heard of winning and losing streaks: the idea that a player suddenly stumbles upon a series of “lucky” or “unlucky” rounds. But this is a myth: each outcome in slots and other RNG-driven games is independent. It has no connection to the result that comes before or after.
While an RNG might award several consecutive wins on occasion, this is just the way the algorithm goes — it could just as easily have generated a string of losses.
RNG Casino Games
What is RNG technology? A critical solution to provide players with an unpredictable, honest gaming experience, used in slots, virtual table games, and beyond. RNGs use algorithms to generate unique number sequences that determine the result of each game round. There’s no interference from casinos behind the scenes, and regulators require proof that RNGs have been tested for reliability.
Mega Casino is home to a vast range of RNG slots from top software brands, with the latest releases and classic titles. In our collection, you’ll find Rich Wilde and the Book of Dead, Big Bass Bonanza, Fluffy Favourites, Deal or No Deal: The Big Hit Megaways Jackpot, and more than 5,000 other games
Want to try for yourself? Play the biggest and best RNG slots at Mega Casino now.
