Slot machines have come a long way in the last century, turning from mechanical games into fully
digital ones. Modern Slots still have a lot in common with the earliest designs at their core, but they are driven by computer technology.
The single most important piece of a modern slot game is the computer algorithm that determines
its outcomes – the random number generator (RNG). This one piece of tech is responsible for making
sure that all Slots are fair and unbiased, whether it’s a classic fruit machine or Gold Cash Free Spins .

Read on as we dive into the details of how RNGs work and why they are such an important part of
Slots.

What is a random number generator?

RNGs are complicated computer algorithms that generate strings of numbers without any clear or
discernible pattern. They work as a substitute for the random nature of the physical elements that
would otherwise determine the outcome of a game, such as the gears and levers in a mechanical slot
machine.

Each of the numbers corresponds to the position of a symbol on the reels, which allows the game
software to determine the outcome of a spin. This is based on the numbers generated at the
moment that the player initiates a spin, with the RNG running even when the game isn’t in active
play.

Thanks to RNGs, the outcome of every individual spin is completely independent from any other. As
the algorithm generates such a large number of numbers in every second, it’s also impossible for
anyone to predict what numbers are generated at the moment of a spin.​

Why are RNGs important to Slots?

The primary function of the RNG is to ensure the fairness and unpredictability of the game. It’s how
digital Slots can produce outcomes that players trust, with no bias or external factors impacting the
outcome of a spin.

RNGs ensure that every spin of the reels has the same odds of producing any outcome, keeping Slots
fair for all players. They also make it impossible to predict when a matching combination will land.

Another important factor of RNGs is their compliance with regulations. All regulated online casinos
are subject to strict conditions and must have their game RNGs regularly audited.

Independent testing agencies confirm that an RNG is functioning properly and producing unbiased
outcomes, lining up with the expected return to player (RTP) of the individual game.

Common misconceptions about RNGs

Players don’t always understand the inner workings of RNGs, leading to some common
misconceptions about how they work within online slot games.

One of the most common misconceptions is that Slots can have ‘hot’ and ‘cold’ streaks. This suggests
that a slot game is ‘due’ for a payout after a long streak without, or that it is less likely to payout after
a recent matching combination.

This is untrue due to the way that RNGs function, as every spin’s outcome is completely
independent. There are the same odds of a payout on any given spin, no matter what has or hasn’t
happened previously.

Another common misconception is that the size of a player’s wager can impact the results of the
RNG. This is also false, as RNG is not subject to any external influence and will deliver the same
degree of randomness no matter the wager.

As you can see, random number generators are the core of online Slots. Their random outcomes
mean that every spin of a game’s reels has the same odds, no matter what.