Understanding RNG and RTP in Online Gaming: Complete Guide

As much as we love to think of online gambling as carefree entertainment, there’s some serious science working behind the scenes. Specifically, mathematics plays a key role in every round, whether that involves a spin, shuffle, or roll. While it might seem like all you’re doing is hitting the Spin button on a slot game and waiting for Lady Luck to have her say, the outcome of each round is determined by complex algorithms.

The two fundamental concepts behind the fairness of online casino games and their outcomes are the Random Number Generator (RNG) and the Return to Player (RTP) rate. Understanding how they work can help you make more informed decisions and manage your expectations more effectively.

What Does RNG Mean in Gaming?

RNG is an abbreviation standing for Random Number Generator. It’s the basis for any online casino game, meaning that it determines how each round ends for you. Thanks to the RNG, each game at reputable casinos, whether traditional or crypto-friendly, has fair and unbiased results.

So, how does a Random Number Generator work? As an algorithm that constantly generates sequences of random numbers, the RNG is at the core of every fair online casino game. In practice, whenever you press Spin on a slot or deal cards in a virtual table game, a number from the RNG’s current sequence is pulled. This very number determines the result of a round by deciding which symbols will appear on the reels or what cards will be dealt.

The RNG makes sure each round is an independent event, so there are no predictable patterns. To ensure the fairness of games, reputable providers and operators use certified RNGs, audited by trustworthy laboratories. Therefore, when playing at a trusted online casino, you can rest assured that games aren’t rigged.

What is RTP?

Although they may sound similar at first, RNG and RTP are terms that have nothing in common. The latter stands for return to player, indicating how much, in theory, you can win while playing the game. Now, you must understand that you should not take a game’s RTP for granted. Have you noticed how we said “in theory”? Yes, that’s a theoretical value which should be taken as an indicator, not a guarantee.

A return to player is a percentage that represents the average amount of money a player can expect to win back from a casino game in the long run, or more precisely, in hundreds of thousands or even millions of rounds. For instance, while playing a slot game with an RTP of 96%, you can, on average, win $96 for every $100 wagered. What’s left, 4% or $4, is the amount the casino keeps, also known as a house edge or margin.

A higher RTP generally means better odds for the player, so you should check the rate for each game you want to play. When it comes to slots, a recommended RTP should be over 96%, which is considered an average rate. Among other casino games with a high RTP, blackjack stands out with rates over 99%. However, to benefit from such a high RTP, you must apply a proper strategy, as blackjack is a game of skill.

How RNG and RTP Work Together in Casino Games?

Now that you are familiar with both concepts, let’s see how they work together to help you understand casino games better. Outcomes determined by the RNG must align with the game’s RTP. Although your results may vary significantly from round to round in the short term, over time, the mathematics behind the game will cause them to reach their target RTP.

So, together, the RNG and RTP ensure that the game is both fair and statistically predictable. Bear in mind that the latter can’t be applied to a regular session, as it takes a long sequence of spins that no one can play in a reasonable time.

Extra Layer of Fairness at Crypto Casinos

Crypto gambling platforms, like the best casinos we recommend on GottaGamble.com, offer an additional feature to ensure transparency and fairness. It’s a provably fair system based on blockchain technology that allows players to verify the fairness of game outcomes.

When playing provably fair games, you can verify game results, transactions, and even RNG mechanisms in some cases. Therefore, provably fair gaming introduces an extra layer of fairness and trust, making crypto casinos more appealing to tech-savvy players.

At some of the best crypto casinos, like Stake.com, you can play enhanced RTP slots. These are Pragmatic Play slots with RTPs of 98%. At the same time, Roobet Casino allows you to enable the Real-time RTP feature, which can help you find the slots that pay the best.

Closing Thoughts

To play casino games successfully, whether with fiat or cryptocurrencies, it is essential to understand them thoroughly. Of course, you should pick a reputable casino site first. The good news is that all those featured on our website are trustworthy, with games operated by certified RNGs.

Once you register with such a casino, look for games with high RTPs for the best odds of winning. If you intend to play online slots, be sure to check their volatility levels as well. Higher volatility typically means lower hit frequency but higher payouts. Low volatility means the opposite, while medium volatility offers balanced gameplay.

Always remember that there are no strategies to beat luck-based games, such as slots or roulette, as they generate random results. In this case, it’s essential to manage your bankroll efficiently and avoid risking more than you can afford to lose.

While proper bankroll management is also important when playing skill-based games, such as blackjack or poker, applying optimal strategies is crucial. Take your time to learn the proper strategy for the game you intend to play, so you can make the most of its high RTPs.