One of the most significant advancements in the gambling industry was the creation of random number generators (RNGs). Today, RNGs are present in almost all digital gambling, intending to create a secure and honest gaming experience for players.
RNGs are also widely used in other games of chance, such as selecting the winning numbers in lottery draws. The RNGs ensure fair and unbiased results in both draws and game results.
Despite RNGs’ widespread use, would-be whistleblowers have claimed for years that these systems may not be truly random. Many have applied methods like Benford’s Law to these generators in an attempt to predict their outcomes.
Although this theory may excite players and lead them to believe they can beat a casino game, the truth is not so simple. Join us as we dive deep into how these random number generators work and prove that they make gambling genuinely random and unpredictable.
What Is a Random Number Generator?
Simply stated, a random number generator is a computer software that runs an algorithm with a singular purpose. This ensures that each result from the computer is unique and does not follow any specific pattern, trend, or predictable factor.
As such, when used in casino games like the Fishin’ Pots demo on casinos.com, the RNG behind the game ensures that each spin is unique. Additionally, the RNG ensures that it is impossible to predict how many spins it could take to claim a jackpot.
Two Types of Random Number Generators
There are two basic kinds of random number generators: true random number generators and pseudo-random generators. These have the same primary task: to produce unexpected outcomes. However, each system factors in different items and conditions.
True RNGs are based on natural entropy, a scientific concept associated with randomness and disorder. Also known as TRNGs or HRNGs (hardware random number generators), true RNGs are not limited to their source coding or algorithm as defined by a computer or microprocessor.
Instead, TRNGs consider almost any random factor from the physical world. This could be the current weather and temperature, or the hour, minute, and second of the day. Using a data point from a physical or biological source, a TRNG creates a seed as the starting point for all future random outcomes.
Although TRNGs are incredibly secure compared to pseudo-random number generators (PRNGs), they have some drawbacks. The biggest of these is that they are costly because they generally need specific hardware sensors to determine the factor they will use as a seed for future predictions.
Unlike TRNGs, pseudo-random number generators are much less complex and don’t rely on natural entropy. Instead, they are given a unique seed by either the developer or by using a computer to generate a random key. Because this seed is stored on the microprocessor running the PRNG, it can be accessed by outside parties—making it much less secure than a TRNG.
Even though PRNGs are known to be less secure, casino games most commonly use them rather than TRNGs because they are cheaper to operate and can thus support more games. The variety of games made possible by PRNGs is one of the greatest benefits of online casinos. Additionally, extra security can be installed on the microchip to ensure the seed key is secured.
Once a PRNG has its starting key, it operates in the same way as a TRNG. It builds from this initial value and follows an algorithm to produce random outcomes from the starting point. However, unlike TRNGs, predicting the results of a PRNG is possible.
This can only occur if somebody discovers the RNG’s seed key. When this happens, the party with this information can reverse engineer the sequence of outcomes this seed will generate. To avoid a scenario like this, casinos and game developers invest significant resources into protecting the seeds used by PRNGs.
Are Random Number Generators Fair?
One of the most common questions regarding RNGs is whether or not they are fair. This has been a point of contention among naysayers, but reputable sources have proven time and again that RNGs are indeed fair.
Most casinos receive their casino games from software development studios like NetEnt and Pragmatic Play. The PRNGs used to run the game are already installed and verified when the casinos receive the games. This means that the casino generally is not given access to the seed key—making it almost impossible for them to change the odds in their favor.
Once the new game is installed in a physical casino or on the server of an online casino, RNGs undergo extensive testing to ensure they operate fairly. Independent auditors conduct tests on the RNGs, perform mathematical evaluations that study the outcomes of the generator, and review payout reporting structures.
One of the most well-known auditors focusing on testing and verifying RNGs used in casino games is eCORGA (eCommerce Online Gaming Regulation and Assurance). Organizations like eCORGA are responsible for giving online sites and even some physical casinos a fair certification. A casino holding this certification indicates that all their RNGs have been tested and are unbiased.
Changing the seed value of a game or any other component that could directly or indirectly affect the RNG operating a game is an intensive process for casinos. Casinos must notify gambling regulators and undergo additional audits to confirm the changes have not altered the fairness of the games.
Conclusion
Although there may be debate about using random number generators in casino games, RNGs have made slots and other games more fair, trustworthy, and enjoyable for players. In fact, players may have difficulty finding a game that isn’t operated by an RNG.
With independent auditors ensuring that casinos are kept in check and that their games are fair, players can be confident that any game powered by an RNG will offer an honest chance to take a spin with Lady Luck.
