Casino Experts Explain How RNG Works 2025

Quick Answer

⚡ The RNG is a unique tool that determines the results of each spin on a slot machine. It’s a computer program designed to generate random outcomes that mimic the unpredictability we often see in nature.

An RNG produces a series of random figures at an extremely high speed. These numbers correspond to various symbols on the slot game’s reels. After hitting the spin button on a slot, the RNG stops at a particular number. That number dictates the symbols you’ll see on the screen and the outcome of your spin.

How Does RNG Work in Online Slots?

To fully understand the magic surrounding slot machines, you must understand how random number generators operate. These intricate algorithms are responsible for producing the unpredictable results that make every spin exciting.

RNG is like the heart of a slot machine; it runs nonstop, generating a steady stream of random numbers. It produces these numbers via complex mathematical algorithms designed to duplicate true randomness.

Let’s have a breakdown of how the process unfolds:

Ensuring Unpredictability and Fairness

One of the primary purposes of RNGs is to guarantee the unpredictability and fairness of slot games. The RNG produces independent and random numbers, removing any possibility of game providers, casinos or players influencing or predicting the outcomes. Such unpredictability makes every spin unique and guarantees that gambling on slot machines remains a game of chance.

Top Speed Operation

RNGs produce numbers at an astounding rate, generating millions of random numbers per second. With such a speedy operation, the results of spins can be displayed on players’ screens instantaneously.

Independence of Random Numbers

One of the fundamental principles of RNGs is that every number produced is independent of the random numbers created before them and any subsequent ones. This independence ensures that the outcome of one spin doesn’t affect the following spins.

Maximising Entropy

Entropy is the measure of unpredictability used to determine if an RNG is doing its job correctly. If an RNG has high or nearly perfect entropy, they guarantee that the series of numbers produced is genuinely random, free of any predictability or discernible patterns.

Complex Algorithms

RNGs use highly complex algorithms to produce random figures. To produce genuinely unpredictable results, different factors come into play, such as:

Use interactions, like pressing the spin button
Time-based seed values
Mathematical formulas

These factors vary depending on whether the RNG has a hardware component (True Random Number Generator) or is purely a software program (Pseudo Random Number Generator). From a player perspective, you don’t need to worry too much about the differences between these, as both produce fair and random results. Nonetheless, we’ll cover them in more detail below if you are interested in knowing the details.

Mapping to Outcomes

When an RNG produces random numbers, those numbers correspond to the many possible outcomes of an online slot. Once a player starts a spin, it is matched to a number produced by the RNG, and the corresponding combination of symbols is displayed to the player.

Types of RNGs

There are two common types of RNG:

Pseudo Random Number Generator (PRNG)
True Random Number Generator (TRNG)

While both types generate random results, they don’t use the same strategies.

PRNG

This software program uses given mathematical formulas and algorithms applied to a “seed number” to produce a series of figures that closely resemble randomness. The seed number sets the parameters for the PRNG, so it knows the range of possible results. The results of the slots that use pseudo generators aren’t expressed in numbers. Instead, when playing slots, the values correspond to images representing each possible outcome. So, in theory, if you know the mathematical principles guiding the PRNG and have the seed number, you can determine which combinations the slot algorithm will produce.

TRNG

TRNG produces randomness via a mechanical procedure. They use signals from something unpredictable in the physical environment to generate unexpected outcomes. If you want to be very technical about it, this environmental stimulus is called an “entropy source”. Such sources of randomness can include:

Airwave static
Computer network jitter
Air temperature fluctuations

The device takes the measures, transforms them into values, and generates the final results. The outcome is entirely random since the end values can't be predicted.

slots online casinos ireland

What’s the Importance of RNG in Online Slots?

RNG has proved to be helpful in various ways, such as:

Upholding Equity

RNG prevents game outcome rigging by ensuring every spin has an equal chance of winning. Since each spin is independent of the previous one, players experience fair playthroughs.

Improves the Confidence of Players

With the help of RNGs, the player’s probability of winning is entirely independent of the things they can control. Such an assurance improves the gambling platform’s popularity and encourages player engagement.

Adherence to Regulatory Standards

Online betting platforms take RNGs seriously to ensure fairness. Their RNG systems are frequently audited and regulated by gambling bodies like the UKGC and the MGA. Most online casinos in Ireland also use third-party auditors such as eCOGRA or iTECH Labs to examine their RNGs and offer certifications.

What Impact Does RNG Have on Payouts?

The payout percentage of a slot game, or RTP (return to player), is a vital metric determining the probability of gamers winning over time. Learn how they are calculated below:

An RTP represents the percentage of total wagers a slot is designed to give back to the player over time. It is expressed as a percentage, ranging from 90% to 99% or more, and it's an essential aspect as it determines a slot game’s attractiveness to players.

RNG acts as the foundation of computing slot payouts. Look at the following principles for a better understanding:

Outcome Frequency

The RNG produces a broad series of random numbers corresponding to specific slot outcomes. For example, winning a jackpot might be associated with a rare combination of numbers.

Symbol Weighting

Symbols on the online reels have different weights allocated to them. Some symbols have a higher chance of popping up than others, and the RNG accounts for such weightings when producing numbers.

Simulating Millions of Spins

Calculation of RTP entails simulating millions of spins on the slot games. Here is a breakdown of the procedure:

Generate of random numbers
Apply symbol weighting
Calculate payouts
Divide payouts by total bets
Continually test

Fair Play and Transparency

The mechanism behind computing the RNG slot game payout percentage emphasises fair play and transparency. Regulatory authorities enforce stringent standards to guarantee that gamers receive the published RTP and that slot games are devoid of manipulation.

Our Experts Verdict

Online slots rely on RNG technology to deliver fair results. Irish casino sites ensure that each spin offers an equal winning opportunity by using RNGs and this is enforced through regulations and third-party testing.

Understanding the mechanisms behind RNG will improve your enjoyment of online slots. It also helps to dispel some of the misconceptions and myths surrounding online gambling, irrespective of how much you have previously played. Slot results are based purely on chance, and now you have the knowledge to prove it.

Resources

FAQs

Why do online casino sites use RNGs?

Reputable casinos utilise RNGs to guarantee that their slot games are fair and unpredictable.

Are slot algorithms genuinely random?

Yes, the RNG produces random numbers that correspond to various results on the reels. This ensures that every spin is unpredictable and independent.

Can anyone beat an RNG?

Beating RNGs is like attempting to beat randomness, and it's impossible. Theoretically, RNGs produce random figures that are unbiased and unpredictable, making it impossible to manipulate or predict the results. So, there's no chance of beating RNGs.

Casino Mentor

Seánie O'Brien

Casino Adviser

Seánie has plenty of experience in the casino world and enjoys sharing this accumulated knowledge. He offers great tips and tricks for players to enjoy casinos safely.

Expert on:

Casino TipsMyth BusterGambling Insights

Fact Checked By Rebecca Mackay