Ever played a game where you landed a perfect shot, only to see it miss because of “bad luck”? That’s random number generation (RNG) at work. RNG is what determines elements of a game like loot drops, critical hits, and enemy behaviours – adding unpredictability to video games. While some games rely heavily on chance, others blend randomness with skill, forcing players to adapt.
Understanding how RNG works can help gamers make smarter decisions and even outplay the odds. But is RNG always fair? And how much control do players really have? Continue reading to see how randomness affects gameplay.
What is RNG, and Why Do Games Use It?
RNG is a system that creates unpredictable outcomes in games. Developers use RNG to add variety and excitement, ensuring no two playthroughs feel exactly the same. In role-play games (RPGs), RNG decides whether a sword swing lands or misses; in loot-based games, it controls what rare items drop.Without RNG, games might feel too predictable, removing the thrill of the unknown. However, too much randomness can frustrate players, especially when success feels completely out of their hands. That’s why game designers have to balance RNG carefully, making everything random, but not unfair.
When Does Randomness Feel Fair?
Not all RNG is the same. “Good” RNG adds unpredictability but still allows players to adapt and strategize. For example, in XCOM, a soldier’s hit chance isn’t pure luck. It depends on their position and accuracy stats. This means skilled players can increase their odds of success through smart decision-making.“Bad” RNG, on the other hand, creates moments where players have no control. If a powerful weapon drops randomly in battle royale games, some players get an instant advantage just by luck. This kind of randomness can feel unfair, because it rewards chance over skill.
RNG in Competitive Gaming (Skill or Luck?)
Competitive games try to limit RNG to keep matches fair, but it still exists in many forms. In Hearthstone, for example, card draws are random, but experienced players can build decks to reduce bad luck. In League of Legends, critical hits are chance-based, but item choices influence how often they occur.This blend of randomness and strategy keeps games exciting, while ensuring that better players still have the upper hand. The key is to design RNG in a way that challenges players rather than deciding matches for them.
When Randomness Meets Strategy: Not Just in Video Games
Not all games that involve randomness are purely about luck. Many competitive games, including poker and strategy-based gambling games, rely on controlled RNG, where players make decisions within a chance-based system. In XCOM, for example, positioning and tactics influence hit chances, much like how poker players calculate probabilities before placing bets.This mix of skill and randomness is what makes certain games exciting, both in gaming and beyond. That’s why some of the best online casinos for Australians offer strategy-based games where understanding odds and making smart moves can improve your chances, just like in competitive gaming.
How Players Can “Beat” RNG with Strategy
While you can’t eliminate randomness, you can work around it. Skilled players in loot-based games learn farming methods to increase drop rates. In card games, pros build decks that reduce the impact of bad draws. Even in RPGs, understanding how luck-based mechanics work helps players manipulate in-game systems for better results.The best approach is to control what you can, whether that’s positioning, resource management, or predicting patterns. RNG might create uncertainty, but the smartest players find ways to turn the odds in their favour.
