Random number generation or RNG in iGaming is what it has held onto to power everything, from slots to online poker. This technology is essential to ensure digital gaming’s three major arms: fairness, unpredictability, and transparency.
But why is RNG so important in the iGaming industry? That said, over 72% of gamers worldwide reported that anything less than fair is unacceptable for online gaming.
Furthermore, 83% claimed they would trust a gaming platform with RNG certification. These statistics build the case for RNG to gain trust and credibility, an increasingly important aspect in a growing market expected to boom to $127.3 billion by 2027.
What is RNG?
A random number generator is a system that generates a sequence of numbers or symbols that reasonably cannot be accurately predicted better than by random chance. RNGs play major roles in fields ranging from scientific simulations and cryptography to, most noticeably, the gaming industry. In its most basic definition, RNG ensures fairness and a bias-free process, thus giving fair conditions to participants in any game involving chance.
The technology aspect of gaming provides the backbone upon which game randomness can be ensured. This guarantees that card draws in online poker, slot game spins, and many other aspects of the game mechanics are beyond bias and prediction.
What is RNG in iGaming?
However, the most essential feature of RNG in iGaming sector is popularly referred to as online gaming. RNG in iGaming enables developers to provide the same quality as physical casinos while preventing players and providers from affecting the outcome of virtual games.
This is important because it gives players confidence, knowing that every round they receive is a hand of blackjack, a roll of virtual dice, or a spin of the roulette wheel is truly random.
This technology has hugely evolved and developed to keep up with the demands of iGaming. Whereas old, early RNGs were simpler, using simpler algorithms, which are in use today, online casinos employ very robust systems. Even cryptographic RNGs further ensure that no one can affect or hack outcomes.
How RNG is Used?
RNG technology makes sure that the element of chance is effectively replicated throughout various aspects iGaming-specific:
- Slots: With each spin in an online slot game, the RNG ensures that a random combination of symbols pops up onto the reels, so it can be ensured that every spin has an equal chance at any given outcome.
- Card Games: Online poker, blackjack, and baccarat utilize the RNG in shuffling the deck and dealing of cards so no one knows what the next card would be.
- Dice and Roulette Games: Online dice or roulette games use RNG to generate less predictable numbers, recreating the randomness of a roll or spin.
- Live Dealer Games: RNG might be used for seating or bonus decisions within broader live dealer games, adding layers of fairness to real-world experiences.
RNG in iGaming not only makes every game fair, but it also ensures the RNG providers comply with regulatory laws in most licensing jurisdictions that require online casinos to gain certification from the RNG provider.
Types of RNG in iGaming
There are mainly two types of RNGs that the iGaming industry relies on:
True Random Number Generator:
TRNGs employ physical phenomena, from thermal noise to radioactive decay, to generate random numbers. These systems pick up random signals received and then digitize them. While highly secure, TRNGs are usually slower than their pseudorandom or hardware-based counterparts or otherwise impracticable for the high-speed needs of iGaming.
Pseudo-Random Number Generator:
PRNGs are more common in iGaming because they generate random numbers using algorithms, not physical processes. Starting from a “seed value,” PRNGs can generate sequences that appear random. Using the RNG algorithm, for example, in an online slot each of the symbols will be in a position determined by the PRNG algorithm so that every time a player spins, the outcome will be different.
PRNGs are preferred because they are fast and scalable, but they are also rigorously tested and certified to make this algorithmic component-albeit everything unpredictable.
Impact of RNG at iGaming
The role of RNG in this industry alludes to great relevance for both players and providers:
- Increased Player Trust: RNG proves that players know the true randomness of the game’s result, thereby increasing their trust in online gaming operators. Trust is a high-priority ingredient in iGaming, where players are expected to feel confident that the odds are not slanted against them.
- Regulatory Compliance: Many online gaming jurisdictions require operators to comply with fair play standards. Independent agencies, including eCOGRA and iTech Labs, test RNGs independently and certify specific games as transparent and non-fraudulent.
- Range of Games-Innovative: RNG also allows Unlimited Variants to be developed since these can generate variable outcomes. From adding multipliers in slot games to randomized bonuses in card games, RNG has made online gaming versatile and dynamic.
- Smoother Gaming Experience: Since the RNG technology lies at the heart of the game’s smooth flow, it allows for smooth gameplay with less loading time and fewer bugs, enriching the gaming experience.
Conclusion
RNG in iGaming is way beyond just a technology, it’s actually the backbone behind fun, fair, and safe gaming online. To make things even better, as long as this technology continues improving, better, safer, and more immersive experiences are only a few things any player can await with bated breath in the iGaming world. Whether spinning a reel, drawing cards, or rolling dice, pure-and-undiluted, real-life unpredictability is courtesy of RNG.
