Random number generators are nothing new. In fact, they were used way back in ancient Babylon. Today’s computerized RNGs may not resemble ancient ones in many respects, but the concept remains the same: using a method to end up with a completely random result.
RNGs are a vital part of the online gaming industry, especially in the online casino sector. After all, if casino games are not random, they are not fair. Some players would soon lose interest in playing predictable games, while others could learn how to take advantage of non-random games, which could make a casino bankrupt. So, both players and online casinos alike need RNGs to be in full operation behind the scenes of internet-based games to ensure fair play.
How does an RNG work?
An online casino, such as Kazoom Casino, provides games that strive to replicate the reality of playing a casino game like blackjack, roulette, or craps. Therefore, random number generators are essential in online casino games determining the same random outcomes players experience choosing cards or rolling dice at brick-and-mortar casinos.
An RNG computer program determines the randomness of game outcomes. There are different types of RNGs, but the one that almost every online casino uses is the pseudo-random number generator. The program is unique because it does not require an external input to produce an output. All it needs is an algorithm and a seed number. New seed numbers, which are uncrackable, are generated every millisecond. That is done by taking the last one or two numbers produced and using a mathematical operation like addition, subtraction, or multiplication to create an entirely new random number.
In online slot machines, an RNG works by first assigning a value to each symbol on a slot game reel. For a five-reel slot machine with twelve symbols per reel, an RNG would come up with a value of one to twelve for each reel. The results would be five different symbols. If those five randomly-created symbols match, you will win.
Pseudo-random number generators are not only used in online casino games. They are also widely used by video game developers when producing new games to secure the fairness of the titles.
RNGs Are Regularly Audited
So, RNGs allow every virtual roll of the dice, spin of the wheel, and shuffle of the deck to be random, ensuring that gamers have fair play. But if you are still wondering whether RNGs truly provide fairness and accuracy, be comforted by the fact that all reputable online casinos take an additional measure: independent auditors regularly test RNGs. In addition to providing random number generator evaluations, auditors perform:
- Game and mathematics evaluations.
- Live dealer, betting exchange, or sportsbook evaluations.
- Lottery and pari-mutuel system evaluations.
- Ongoing game payout verification and reporting.
- Poker system audits.
- Penetration testing
- Full security audits.
Audited online casinos are awarded RNG certificates of compliance. So, if you want to guarantee an online casino’s integrity, see if it is certificated.
RNGs Are Used in the Real World Too
Random number generators are not only used in online casino games. They are also used in the vast majority of slot machines in casinos and bars. The machines contain RNG microchips, so although the games still produce entirely random outcomes, they do not do so in the same way as the old slot machines where the pulling of a lever created a random mechanical result. Even game machines that appear to be mechanical are usually now powered by an RNG microchip nowadays.
