Random Number Generator in Slot Machines Explained

What is an RNG?

A random number generator is a mathematical algorithm that chooses numbers and is used to determine the outcomes of certain chance-based online casino games, such as the best online slot machines for real money.

There are two main types of random number generators; true random number generators and pseudo-random number generators.

What is a TRNG?

A true random number generator (TRNG) uses randomness from physical events, such as noise signals, to create random numerical values. True random number generator algorithms cannot be compromised by hackers because it is impossible to predict the outcomes of such inherently random physical occurrences.

What is a PRNG?

A pseudo-random number generator (PRNG) uses algorithms that create long strings of outcomes that are based on shorter strings.

In such a scenario, a ‘string’ refers to the sequence of numbers which have been chosen by the generator. The shorter strings, known as ‘seeds’, are usually based on outcomes from inherently random physical events in a way very similar to TRNG outcomes. However, the longer strings generated from these seeds are produced by a definite mathematical algorithm which is completely deterministic and repeatable.

This is the reason such outcomes are called pseudo-random rather than truly random, and as a consequence, this determinability also makes them more susceptible to hacking.

How Do Online Casinos Use RNG?

Online casinos mainly use pseudo-random number generators in games that don’t involve human dealers in order to ensure an element of randomness.

A number of online casino games use random number generation, the most common being the random number generator in slot machines, but they are also used in online roulette and to deal cards in poker. Traditional casinos also make use of random number generation in machine-based games such as slots and video poker.

Can the RNG Be Beaten?

No, there is no way to reliably predict truly randomly generated numbers. However, as previously mentioned, a pseudo-random number generator can be hacked if one finds out the mathematical algorithm used to generate the outcomes from the seeds, but this is incredibly difficult to do and has a very low probability of happening.

Such algorithms are closely protected by the creators of the game in order to prevent players from exploiting them to win unfairly.

Can The Odds Be Improved Through Strategy?

Ultimately, in truly random online casino games such as slots, no amount of practice, skill or strategy can change the outcome. It is solely dependent on luck.

On the other hand, strategy and skill could help improve your odds in skill-based table casino games such as poker or blackjack, where the decisions you make will affect your chances of winning. Nonetheless, the dealing of cards is still completely random, and, as in all casino games, luck will ultimately determine the final outcome.

The Random Number Generator in Slot Machines

Let’s explain in a bit more detail the mechanisms behind how an RNG works, using a standard slots game to illustrate the concepts.

Consider a three-reel slots game with 10 symbols per reel, of which is associated with a value between 1 and 10. As soon as you click ‘spin’, the RNG algorithm will independently generate three random numbers between 1 and 10, one for each reel, and your results will be represented to you as the three random symbols shown on your screen. If these symbols form a winning combination, then you will get your payouts according to the offers of the game.

If you want to know how to win playing slots, knowing the basics of how RNG works is essential. Although it is impossible to beat the RNG, understanding the principles can help you make rational decisions instead of going for pattern-based decisions.

Are Random Number Generators Fair?

Yes, at all licensed and reputable online casinos, the games using a random number generator are fair because their algorithms are regularly tested and inspected by licensed auditors. They are in charge of performing several checks to ensure that the games are fair so that patrons get an unbiased chance of winning.

Alongside checking true randomness in their number generators, auditors also evaluate live dealers, investigate security, and verify payouts of winnings, among other checks, to ensure players can enjoy fair and safe games.

What Does a Certified RNG Mean?

Once an independent auditor has certified a casino, this means players can be assured that the particular casino uses truly random number generators where all the possible outcomes are equally likely. This is important to ensure that there is no edge that has been programmed into the games to give the house an unfair advantage in order to decrease the frequency of winnings and reduce payouts to increase profits.

Who Moderates the Online Casino Random Number Generator?

Some examples of such authorities are the e-Commerce Online Gambling Regulation Assurance (eCOGRA) and Technical Systems Testing (TST), whose job is to ensure the integrity of gambling software and systems for both online and land-based casinos. Moreover, casinos cannot make any changes to their games without notifying the relevant regulating authorities and through a closely monitored procedure. Any sites found tampering with their games are liable to hefty penalties and could lose their gaming license.

How To Check If an RNG Is Certified

Any licensed and reputable online casino will display the relevant licenses and certificates in an easily accessible manner, usually at the bottom of every page on the site.

If in doubt about the legitimacy or licensing of an online casino, do not hesitate to contact their customer support. Reliable casinos will have nothing to hide and give you no problems in providing you with all the necessary information. Be sure to make the necessary checks beforehand to avoid trusting an illegitimate casino with your money.

Common Misconceptions on Truly Random Outcomes

Understanding the true mathematical nature of randomness is essential to avoid falling victim to common cognitive biases while playing at the casino.

One common casino superstition is believing in ‘hot streaks’ and ‘cold streaks’, which is the belief that if you’ve won or lost a series of rounds in a row, your luck is bound to change soon. This is often called the gambler’s fallacy, where you see patterns where no true pattern exists. Unfortunately, this can lead to irresponsible decisions such as placing higher stakes on the next outcome, under the misconception that a certain outcome is more likely to happen than others, merely based on the results of previous outcomes.

In games such as slots, where the outcome is completely random, it is important to understand that the results of previous outcomes are not stored and in no way affect subsequent results. This means that during every spin, all outcomes are once more equally probable, irrespective of previous results.

Helpful Tips for Playing RNG Games

Here are a few tips to keep in mind when playing games which use random number generators at the online casino.

• Always make sure to play at reputable, licensed online casinos by checking for the necessary certificates.
• Understand the nature of the games you are playing. Is the outcome truly random, or can your odds be improved using a strategy?
• If you are playing games with truly random outcomes, do not fall prey to casino superstition, and always remind yourself that results are totally random and unrelated to previous outcomes.
• Always bet well within your limits. Do not keep playing once you’ve exhausted your budget hoping to ‘recover’.

FAQs

Kate WebbEditor in Chief

With over ten years of experience working with gambling and writing about casinos, Kate brings a lot of knowledge to CasinoTop3.com. Kate oversees all the content written on CasinoTop3.com to ensure it contains factual information with value to you as a player.