The Role Of RNGs In Ensuring Fair Online Poker Platforms

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If you play poker or any other casino game online, you may have noticed the term “RNG” pop up on the platform. Random number generators (RNGs) are vital for online casinos and many other types of online video games.

RNGs are important to ensure fairness in online casinos, but especially on poker platforms. As Sam Barnard, Editor in Chief at Techopedia states, “Safe online poker sites also use fair random number generators for the shuffling at the tables. This means that the results are random and players can’t take advantage of any loopholes to cheat.” (Source: https://www.techopedia.com/gambling/best-online-poker-sites)

Let’s dive into exactly what RNGs are, how they work, and why poker sites rely on them to ensure fair play.

What Are RNGs?​

Random number generators are a type of algorithm that creates a random sequence of numbers that are not easily predictable. These algorithms can be used to create random and unbiased outcomes in games.

For example, online casinos use RNGs for drawing cards, rolling dice, and slot machine reels. It simulates the unpredictability of playing real casino games at a traditional casino.

How RNGs Work​

Most RNGs make use of complex algorithms and math formulas to generate the random number sequence. The algorithms create a statistically random result based on player input or time of day (or other variables, depending on the RNG).

Since the sequence generated is so large and random, it is not possible to identify a pattern, making it a very useful tool for poker and other casino games where randomness is key.

RNGs Ensuring Fair Online Casino Games​

The sequence generated by RNGs is key to ensuring the fairness of online casino games. Due to the unpredictable outcome generated by the RNG, manipulation or cheating by the players or the casino/virtual dealer is not possible.

Every poker card dealt, every reel spun, and every dice rolled is completely unpredictable, independent, and random.

RNGs create a level playing field for both the player and the house, which also instils a sense of trust in the players as they know they’re not being cheated.

How RNGs Ensure Fairness In Poker​

Let’s look specifically at how RNGs are used on poker platforms.

Two types of RNGs are typically used when developing poker games:
  1. True RNG: True RNGs rely on a physical process (called an entropy source) to create a random sequence, like time of day, ambient noise, or any temperature variations. These RNGs are truly random and used on platforms where security and fairness are essential.
  2. Pseudo-RNG: A pseudo-RNG uses an algorithm to generate a seemingly random sequence of outcomes. Although it is not truly random since algorithms are used, they are sufficient for most poker games.

There are also two ways in which RNGs can be used on poker platforms:
  1. Single shuffle: The RNG algorithm draws random cards at the start of the poker hand which are dealt to the players as well as the community cards placed on the table. It mimics what the dealer would do at a real poker table. There’s no shuffling once the hand starts.
  2. Constant shuffle: The RNG is used to constantly shuffle the deck throughout the hand. The cards that are dealt to the players only reveal their value once placed on the table or in the virtual hands of the players.

Trusted online poker platforms will contain a section on the website that indicates how they ensure fairness. This section will often mention the use of RNGs.

A reputable poker platform will make use of an RNG as well as a third-party auditor who will test the fairness of the RNG once every year or two. Once the RNG passes several tests or evaluations, the poker platform will receive a type of seal of approval from the auditor to show that they’re not cheating their users.

Platforms without RNGs should be avoided, as players can’t be certain of the security or transparency of the platform. This can result in the online site manipulating the numbers to see a favorable outcome for the house and a major disadvantage for the player.
 

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