Are Online Slots Really Random?
Online casino slots’ randomness is a significant concern for many dedicated players that deserve to be treated justly. After all, the idea of playing slots is to rely on luck rather than skill or strategy.
With this in mind, it’s no rocket science to understand why players question whether or not these games are as random as they seem. Online slots are not random, but they can be acceptably random if some conditions and requirements are met. Licensing the casino site’s RNGs is essential to making online slots random. So, what are RNGs?
Random Number Generators
Random Number Generators (RNGs) are computer algorithms that generate random numbers to determine the outcome of an online casino slot game.
These random numbers must be acceptable to determine the position of the reels, pay lines, odds, bonus rounds, and ultimately how much a player wins or loses when playing.
There are two types of these Random Number Generators that work for online slots. These are Pseudo Random Number Generators and True Random Number Generators.
Pseudo-Random Number Generators
Pseudo-Random Number Generators (PRNGs) are computational algorithms that simulate randomness using deterministic formulas or tables. The PRNGs are also Software-generated random numbers.
The main advantage of PRNGs is that online casinos use them to generate sequences of numbers that appear random but follow a predictable pattern. More so, PRNG has a linear congruential generator (LCG) that uses two numbers to generate three random numbers.
The first number is called the seed. The second number is called N, which increments by 1 each time it’s needed to generate a new random number. The third number is the final result or output from the PRNG algorithm, also known as X.
True Random Number Generators
True Random Number Generators (TRNGs), also known as hardware random number generators (HRNGs), produce genuinely random numbers through unpredictable external variables.
These include environmental noise, physical movement, and other factors rather than algorithms. Software TRNGs are the most convenient RNGs for online players.
They generate random numbers even when there isn’t any hardware connected to them.
In a nutshell, casino sites need to define how the use of their RNGs is acceptably random. But how can online casinos prove that their RNGs are truly random without manipulation?
How Online Casinos ensure fairness through RNGs
Reputable online casinos only use software RNGs that have been tested and licensed by a licensing authority to ensure the fairness and randomness of their games.
The UK Gambling Commission makes it mandatory for any remote operation to have a gambling license, purchase gambling software from a licensed manufacturer, get the software installed by a licensed professional, and allow the commission to test their online slot gambling equipment.
In addition, to confirm that online slots are indeed and acceptably random, they must submit their test results and random number generator (RNG) test results for verification.
This verification shows the high degree of assurance that the RNGs are genuinely random, not manipulated or compensated.
As a player that wants fair treatment on casino sites, you need to register with casino sites that can prove they have been thoroughly tested, licensed, and certified by the regulatory body.
Trusted online casinos disclose their certified software and equipment, primarily licensed RNGs, on their sites for their players to see.
The importance of licensed RNGs
One good thing about licensed RNGs is that they ensure that each slot game is different from the last and that each spin of the reel is entirely random. The software also prevents players from taking advantage of any patterns that may emerge in the games.
In addition, gambling licensing authorities such as the UK Gambling Commission continually regulate how the licensed RNGs are used to ensure randomness and fairness in online slots.
These regulations help protect the integrity of these online slot games and ensure that all players have an equal chance of winning. With this procedure, players have an enjoyable playing experience, as they know that the results of each game are completely random and unpredictable.
To not lose the license from the UK Gambling Commission, online slot sites prove that they are genuinely random and comply with RNG criteria. They hire third-party companies to audit their online slot games before it is released to the public.
These companies use advanced testing techniques and sophisticated algorithms to test the accuracy and fairness of the RNG. If any issues arise during the testing process, these third-party companies can identify them and recommend changes to help improve them.
Also, besides the licensed RNGs, the UK Gambling Commission enforces that all gaming providers use only licensed and approved software to make online slots acceptably random.
With these strict measures to ensure true random by the gambling commission, never think players may find it hard to win. It’s 50-50 chances without being biased.
Chances of winning with RNGs
When you spin the reels, the RNG will generate a series of numbers, each corresponding to a game symbol on the reel. The combination of these numbers will decide the outcome of your spin.
If a number matches the one stored in the game, it will activate the corresponding symbol on the reel and create a winning combination.
This is why every spin of the reels is an entirely independent event and has no relation to the spins before or after it. So, even if you don’t win one spin, that doesn’t mean you won’t win the next one.
Every single spin is an independent event, and each has an equal chance of hitting a winning combination. Online slots are fair and random, giving players the same chance of winning every time they play.
Can Online Slots with RNGs be manipulated?
Yes! RNGs can be manipulated if not licensed by the licensing authorities or subjected to validation as expected. Some casino sites use this opportunity to manipulate the software in their favour.
They also configure the RNGs to generate odds for the house’s advantage. Though most online casinos disclose this act to their participants as part of their game’s standard rules, many players are not okay with it.
Nevertheless, some trusted online casinos take extra steps to assure players that their games are free from manipulation. These measures include regularly auditing their games and ensuring that their software is up-to-date with the latest security protocols.
Also, many online casinos use what’s known as “provably fair” technology, which allows players to view a game’s seed numbers and verify the outcome of each game.
Overall, online casino slots are generally considered to be acceptably random and fair if the sites are under a regulatory body. Players should always check a casino’s license and certification before signing up for an account, as this will help ensure that the casino is playing fairly and abiding by gambling laws.
As long as the casino is reputable and trustworthy, players can rest assured that the games they play are as random as they appear.
Players can also manipulate their winning chances by using some devices to predict the odds. However, it may be impossible to achieve such with an AI-based slot site.
Using AI with online slots
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a type of computer programming that allows machines to learn from their experiences and respond more realistically.
AI-based slot games use algorithms to determine how the game will play out based on past player behaviour and patterns. The aim is to make the game more exciting and unpredictable for the players.
Furthermore, some online slot sites use AI for customer service. The AI relates with customers on casino sites, answers frequently asked questions, and solves complex issues. Some sites also use AI for marketing and advertisements to generate more revenue for the company. In contrast, some use it to check participants’ Internet Protocol (IP) for dubious activity and prevent fraud.
Yes, AI-based slot games have added a new level of realism and unpredictability to online slots. Although not all online slots use AI, many developers are beginning to embrace the technology as it has proven beneficial and entertaining for players.
Do Online Slots with RNGs have Memory?
Online slots, like their physical counterparts, are designed to be completely random. There is no “memory” built into them if there is no manipulation. In other words, regardless of how often a specific combination of symbols has come up previously, the chances of it appearing again remain the same as for any other combination.
That’s because online slots’ random number generator software does not consider past spins. It will always generate a new combination of symbols randomly, regardless of any past outcomes.
It’s also important to note that online slots don’t “remember” who is playing them. They don’t care if you’ve won or lost in the past or if you’re playing for the first time. The result of each spin is determined by the RNG only, which means all players have an equal chance of winning.
Disrupting Online Slots with RNGs
Most online slots use a random number generator (RNG) to determine the outcome of each spin. This means it is not always possible to outsmart the system and ‘confuse’ the slot machine into giving you more wins.
However, that does not mean there aren’t any tips and tricks for increasing your chances of winning. For example, by choosing games with higher payouts and bonuses, playing games with fewer reels, or setting a maximum bet limit for yourself, you can increase your chances of winning in an online slot game.
Although online slots are designed to be random, there may be specific patterns in the game which could help you gain an edge. Pay close attention to how often you get a winning combination, and note which symbols appear together often.
If you see a pattern, this may be worth exploring further. However, it is essential to remember that no strategy or pattern can guarantee you a win. In the end, luck will always be the deciding factor in any casino game.
What next?
From what we have learned, it is clear that online slots are indeed random. Random Number Generators (RNGs) are used to ensure that the outcome of an online casino slot game is truly random and unpredictable.
This ensures that players have a fair chance of winning and losing while playing these games. Licensing authorities such as the UK Gambling Commission have strict guidelines regarding ensuring that these games are entirely random and fair. Therefore, ensure you play at a reputable online casino. You will rest assured that the outcome of each spin will be random and unbiased.
In addition, you also need to look at the payout percentage, which is the Return to Player (RTP) percentage on their sites. RTP is the profit a player can expect if they play a slot machine for a long time. The higher the RTP, the more the player will win. The most popular online slot games have an 80% to 95% RTP. This means that for every $1 you stake, you will get back $0.80 or more.
Also, ensure you choose a fair game. Many online slots are available, so you must choose the right one. Some people prefer video poker games, which allow them to bet higher amounts to have a chance of winning. Other preferable games are Mega Joker, Jackpot6000, or Bloodsuckers. Whatever type of online slot game you choose, ensure that it has a minimum wager requirement before playing any money.
