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RNG in Casinos: Random Number Generator Myths and Facts

A random number generator, or RNG, is a system used to produce random outcomes in games. In an online casino, an RNG can determine the result of a game according to its programmed rules.

Under the UK Gambling Commission's Remote Gambling and Software Technical Standards, RNG outputs and game results must be “acceptably random”. They should also be unpredictable, with safeguards against predictable patterns or repeated output streams. 

This means players at licensed casinos like Genting Casino should not be able to use previous results to reliably work out what will happen next. Dive deeper into myths and facts about RNG through the following points:

  • Common RNG Myths Debunked
    • Myth 1: A game is “due” a win after several losses
    • Myth 2: A recent win means another win is less likely
    • Myth 3: RNGs can be predicted by watching enough results
    • Myth 4: RNG games change their results when players win too much
    • Myth 5: RNGs follow a hidden pattern
    • Myth 6: RNG testing only checks whether games look random
    • Myth 7: RNG myths can help improve gambling results
  • Why RNG Fairness Matters

Common RNG Myths Debunked

Myth 1: A game is “due” a win after several losses

Fact: Previous results do not make a future random result more likely.

If an RNG produces independent random outcomes, a series of losses does not create an obligation for the next result to be a win. The RNG does not “remember” that recent results were unsuccessful and then compensate for them.

This is an important point when thinking about patterns in an online casino game like online slots. A short sequence of results can appear meaningful, but that does not mean it can be used to predict what comes next.

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Fate’s Fortune

Myth 2: A recent win means another win is less likely

Fact: A previous win does not automatically make the next outcome less likely to occur.

The same principle works in both directions. Random outcomes are not adjusted because a particular result has just happened.

This can be difficult to recognise because people naturally look for patterns. However, seeing two similar results close together does not, by itself, show that the RNG is behaving differently.

Myth 3: RNGs can be predicted by watching enough results

Fact: Watching previous results does not provide a reliable way to predict the next RNG outcome.

UK Gambling Commission requirements state that RNG output should be unpredictable. For software RNGs, predicting the next number should be computationally infeasible without complete knowledge of the algorithm and seed.

Past results may show what has already happened, but they do not provide a dependable forecast of what will happen next.

Genting Casino Tip: Treat previous results as a record of what has happened, rather than a signal telling you what should happen next.

Myth 4: RNG games change their results when players win too much

Fact: UK-regulated RNG-driven games must meet standards designed to prevent adaptive behaviour that changes outcomes to compensate for play.

The UK Gambling Commission states that adaptive behaviour, described as a compensated game, is not permitted under RTS 7. 

This does not mean every individual result can be guaranteed or predicted. It means the random outcome system must operate according to the required technical standards.

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Sweet Reward

Myth 5: RNGs follow a hidden pattern

Fact: A sequence can look like it has a pattern without actually being predictable.

Randomness does not mean that every result must look evenly spaced or alternate between different outcomes. Genuine random sequences can contain clusters and repetitions.

For this reason, spotting what appears to be a pattern in a live casino or other gambling setting does not necessarily mean there is a pattern that can be used to predict future results.

Myth 6: RNG testing only checks whether games look random 

Fact: RNG testing involves technical and statistical checks.

The UK Gambling Commission's testing strategy requires approved test houses to assess areas including RNG documentation, potential weaknesses, source-code implementation and statistical testing of raw RNG output.

New games and RNGs subject to the relevant requirements must complete satisfactory testing and have the test report provided to the Commission before release. 

Approved Test Houses are also required to meet relevant accreditation requirements, helping provide independent assurance around testing.

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Trophy Fish

Myth 7: RNG myths can help improve gambling results

Fact: Understanding RNGs does not create a method for predicting or controlling random outcomes.

Knowing that a game has produced several particular results does not give a player control over what happens next. Similarly, strategies based on ideas such as “hot” or “cold” results cannot change how a properly functioning random system generates outcomes.

Understanding this distinction can help prevent misconceptions from influencing decisions about gambling.

Why RNG Fairness Matters

RNG requirements exist to help ensure that games operate fairly and that their outcomes meet regulatory standards.

The UK Gambling Commission requires random outcomes to meet defined standards for randomness and unpredictability. Its testing framework also provides requirements for independent testing of relevant gambling software. 

For players, this means that claims about being able to identify a secret RNG pattern should be treated carefully. A belief that results can be predicted is not the same as evidence that they can.

Understanding RNGs Without the Myths

RNG myths often come from the natural tendency to find patterns in random events. But a sequence of results does not automatically reveal what will happen next.

The key facts are straightforward: RNG outcomes are designed to be random and unpredictable, previous results do not determine future ones, and relevant gambling software is subject to technical testing under UK regulatory requirements.

Genting Casino's information about RNGs should be viewed in the same way: as a way to understand how random outcomes work, rather than as a method for predicting them. Keeping these facts in mind can help support informed decisions and responsible gambling.

Gambling should be approached responsibly. Do not chase losses or gamble because you believe a particular outcome is due. If gambling stops feeling enjoyable or becomes difficult to control, consider taking a break and using available gambling-management tools or seeking appropriate support. The UK Gambling Commission provides information on safer gambling and ways to manage gambling activity.

FAQs

Can RNG casino games be predicted?

No. RNG systems used in regulated gambling must produce outcomes that are unpredictable according to the applicable technical standards.

Does a losing streak mean a win is due?

No. Previous random outcomes do not make a particular future outcome necessary or more likely.

Can previous results reveal an RNG pattern?

Not reliably. Random sequences can contain repetitions or apparent patterns without making future results predictable.

Are RNG casino games tested?

Yes. Relevant gambling software and RNGs are subject to testing requirements, including testing by approved Test Houses in circumstances set out by the UK Gambling Commission.

Why is understanding RNG myths important?

Knowing how RNGs work can help players avoid misleading beliefs about random outcomes and make more informed, responsible decisions.

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