If you’re new to online gambling, it can be hard to keep up with all the new terms. Just when you think you have a handle on all the poker lingo like Scoops and BBs, someone comes in and drops an RTP or RNG on you. What does it all mean?
Today we’re going to talk about RNG’s meaning, which really just stands for random number generator or random number generation. See? Not so scary, right?
What Does RNG Mean?
RNG stands for random number generator. But what actually is RNG? Why do online casino games need them?
First of all, if online casino games weren’t random, it wouldn’t be a whole lot of fun. Randomness ensures that the casino games are fair and people aren’t able to cheat by tracking game patterns.
When you’re playing bingo or blackjack in a live gaming environment, the numbers that are drawn and the cards that are flipped are physical actions done by real people. The casinos take great care in ensuring that their employees and operations play fair, and that these actions are done randomly.
In the digital world, however, software developers needed a way to bring that same randomness into their highly programmed games — that’s where RNG comes in.
Digital RNGs produce a truly random outcome for poker, online slots and number games like roulette, mimicking the randomness of the live casino experience.
RNG Meaning = a computer algorithm that produces random numbers. These are used to ensure that digital casino games remain random and fair.
How does RNG Work?
In order for RNGs to work, they need to start with a seed number. They then use a sophisticated algorithm to calculate a new, completely random number based on that initial seed number. This process continues again and again to generate more random numbers from the one before it. The next number is based off the previous number, and so on.
This algorithm ensures that no one can actually predict which number comes up next. To make things even more complicated, these seed numbers are usually six or more digits long. Therefore, there are almost endless combinations of digits that can be made.
The random numbers are then assigned by the software developers to individual slot symbols, digital cards, numbered balls and more. This way it ensures the outcomes from these digital casino games are completely fair.
Can you Beat RNG?
You would have to be incredibly smart and desperate for cash to even want to try to beat RNG. But the answer to this question is actually yes. In order to do it, you would need to have extensive knowledge of computer programming and be able to gain access to the RNG software with original seed numbers and algorithms. Then you would need to find out which slot machines at which casinos are using that software and, finally, write and install a program that will beat the system for you. Is it really worth your time?
Let’s be honest, the average casino player is in it for the thrill of the game. Casino games have always been games of luck and chance — that’s what makes them fun and exciting. Big wins are great (and, yes, sometimes life-changing), but cheating the system takes the fun out of it for everyone.
Can You Trust RNG?
The big question is “are RNGs truly fair?”
If you’re choosing to gamble at legitimate and licensed online casinos, then yes. Trustworthy, legal sites all use games with RNG software that is independently licensed and audited on a regular basis.
These independent licensing bodies, like eCOGRA and Technical Systems Testing, keep the industry honest. The best casinos will display their certifications proudly, so if you’re unsure about a website, check the footer for certificates and logos.
Other Fair-Gaming Tactics
If you’re still feeling icky about the honesty of digital gambling, here are some of the other ways casinos play fair:
Independent Audits. Casinos are subject to independent audits as well, not just the games. These audits are required and they’re done regularly. Unfair establishments are quickly identified and forced to shut down.
State Regulations. Every legitimate casino has individual state rules they need to abide by. This means machines need to meet established payout percentages set by the state they’re in, and not mislead players.
Random Inspections. This is less apparent at online casinos, but bricks-and-mortar casinos are regularly subjected to random inspections by authorities. It’s in their best interest to maintain fair play or else face crippling fines and a tarnished reputation.
Staying Safe at an Online Casino
Pick A Legitimate Casino. Some casinos look legit but are anything but. Be sure to do your own independent research and read lots of reviews before you settle on a place to play.
Play Within Your Limits. This one’s a no-brainer, but don’t spend what you can’t afford to lose. Play for fun and entertainment and you’ll have a great time.
