Online casino players will come across the phrase RNG when starting out on their gaming journey, but what exactly does casino RNG mean?

What is RNG?

RNG stands for Random Number Generator. It is a computer program that generates random numbers and sequences to determine the outcome of casino games. RNGs are used in many other contexts, including video games and simulations, as well as gambling.

In land-based and online casinos, RNGs are used to determine the outcome of random chance games like slots, roulette, and card games. They ensure that the games are fair by generating random numbers that correspond to certain game outcomes. Online casinos in particular rely on RNGs to provide players with truly random results, fair gameplay and an authentic casino experience.

Different Types of RNG

There are two main types of RNG: ‘True RNG’ and ‘Pseudo RNG’.

True RNG (TRNG) uses unpredictable physical variables like airwave static, the behaviour of subatomic particles or radioactive decay of isotopes to generate random numbers. These phenomenon all exhibit truly random behaviour, known as ‘pure randomness’.

Pseudo RNG (PRNG) uses mathematical algorithms to generate random numbers. Online casinos typically use certified Pseudo RNGs to ensure fair play and randomness. PRNGs are not as secure as TRNGs because they use algorithms which can be predicted, but online casino RNGs are rigorously tested by independent auditors like eCOGRA and Gaming Laboratories International (GLI) to ensure they produce random results.

How Do Casinos Use RNG?

RNGs are used in both land-based and online casinos to determine the outcome of random chance games in a fair and unpredictable manner. Online casinos in particular rely heavily on certified RNGs to provide players with a fair gaming experience that mimics the randomness of a real casino. Reputable sites use highly-tested RNG to produce truly random results and ensure fair play across all their casino games.

Online Casino Games That Use RNG

Three popular types of online casino RNG games that are widely available include:

Slots – Slot games use RNGs to determine the outcome of each spin and the symbols that land on the reels. RNG ensures that each spin is independent and random, producing unpredictable results.

Roulette – The RNG in roulette generates a random number that corresponds to a slot on the roulette wheel where the ball will land. The RNG produces a new random number for each spin to determine an unpredictable outcome.

Blackjack – RNG is used in blackjack to determine which cards are dealt to players and the dealer in each hand. The RNG produces random cards to ensure that each hand has an unpredictable outcome, just like in a real casino.

How is Casino RNG Regulated & Certified?

Online casino RNGs are regulated by independent testing agencies to ensure fair play and randomness. The main regulators of iGaming RNG standards include:

  • BMM Testlabs – One of the leading iGaming testers, BMM certifies RNGs to meet requirements set out by regulatory bodies like the UK Gambling Commission and MGA.
  • iTech Labs – iTech Labs is an internationally recognized iGaming testing and certification lab. They test RNGs for properties like randomness, unpredictability and independence of outcomes.
  • Gaming Laboratories International (GLI) – GLI is one of the largest iGaming certification bodies, testing RNG software for compliance with requirements set by regulatory authorities worldwide.
  • eCOGRA – eCOGRA is a renowned independent standards and player protection agency for the iGaming industry. They review and certify RNGs for randomness, fairness and compliance with industry standards.

Where Can I Play RNG Casino Games Online?

You can play RNG casino games at many reputable online casinos, with the peace of mind that the games are fair and the outcomes are truly random. These sites offer a wide range of casino games powered by certified RNGs. For example, at 888 online casino players have access to over 200 slot games with RNG-determined outcomes like progressive jackpots, video slots and 3-reel classics. You can also play European, French and American roulette, all using RNG to determine the winning number on each spin.

FAQs

Should You Avoid Casino Games That Use RNG?

No, you should not avoid casino games that use RNG. RNG, or Random Number Generators, are crucial for ensuring fair play and randomness in online casino games. Reputable casino sites use certified RNGs that have been tested by independent auditors to meet strict standards of randomness, unpredictability and fairness. As long as you play at a licensed and regulated casino site, you can enjoy RNG games with confidence that the outcomes are truly random and you have a fair chance of winning.

Can Casino RNG Be Rigged?

No, casino RNG cannot be rigged at reputable and licensed casino sites. While some players claim that RNG can be manipulated to produce certain outcomes, certified RNG software is rigorously tested to ensure it generates truly random results. Independent testing agencies analyze RNG algorithms and software to verify that the random numbers are unpredictable, non-repeatable and evenly distributed. If there were flaws in the RNG that could be exploited, the auditors would detect them.

Can You Beat RNG at a Casino?

No, it is very difficult to beat RNG at an online casino. While some players claim to have ‘systems’ to beat RNG, the truth is that certified RNG produces unpredictable random numbers. As long as the casino is using a fair and tested RNG, the outcomes of games will be random and it will be nearly impossible to gain an advantage over the house. Some players may get lucky in the short term, but the odds will always be in the casino’s favor in the long run. The only way to potentially gain an edge is through bonuses, promotions and VIP rewards, not by ‘beating’ the RNG.

Is Casino RNG Fair?

Yes, casino RNG can be fair if the online casino uses certified RNG software that has been tested by an independent auditing agency to meet strict standards of randomness, unpredictability and fairness. Reputable casino sites will clearly display the logos of third-party testers like eCOGRA, GLI and iTech Labs on their site.

Is Casino RNG Really Random?

Casino RNG can be truly random if the online casino uses a certified RNG that has been rigorously tested. As long as the casino site is licensed and regulated, and uses RNG that has been certified by a reputable auditor, the outcomes of games can be considered truly random. However, it is important for players to do their due diligence in choosing a trustworthy casino site.

Are Slots True RNG?

Slot games use certified RNG to ensure fair play and truly random outcomes. This is in the form of Pseudo RNG, with random results generated by an algorithm, rather than True RNG where results are produced using unpredictable physical variables.

How Can I Tell If a Casino Site Uses RNG?

A reputable online casino should clearly display the logos of independent testing agencies on their site. The casino will also explicitly state that they use certified RNG to power their games. They may provide details on the specific RNG software and auditors used.

If you notice patterns in the outcomes of games or it seems like certain numbers or results appear more often, this could indicate flaws in the RNG. Fair RNG should produce evenly distributed random results. A casino will not make unrealistic claims about “beating the RNG” or provide strategies to gain an advantage at their games. No system can overcome the randomness of certified RNG.

Finally, the casino will have a valid license from a reputable regulatory body which requires casinos to use fair and tested RNGs. The casino will likely belong to an industry watchdog like the Interactive Gaming Council (IGC) or the European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA). These organizations promote standards of fairness, security and responsible gambling, including the use of certified RNG.