Discover the science behind online Slots

Accessing Slots could not be any easier for the player – in most cases all you have to do is click spin to activate the reels.

02:22 20 January 2023

Accessing Slots could not be any easier for the player – in most cases all you have to do is click spin to activate the reels, but behind the scenes there is a lot of science happening to ensure that your game runs smoothly.

If you are ever interested in the technicalities of your favourite game, this piece will demonstrate just how online slot games are able to run efficiently every time you play.

Random Number Generator (RNG)

Slot games use RNGs to create a fair environment – it’s an algorithm generated by a computer, which randomises the outcome of reels when you spin them. It generates a number sequence that corresponds to a symbol that will show up on the reels, which can only be carried out by chance. This randomised sequence of numbers happens at the speed of hundreds per second, and determines your outcome on a particular slot game. 

Some things to take into consideration is that even though these processes are random, each symbol within a game is weighted differently. So, a standard symbol is lower in value, and is therefore more likely to be landed. This is in comparison to a higher weighted symbol, like a bonus symbol, that is rarer and therefore more heavily weighted.

To ensure that you are playing a game from a site that has a reputable RNG, they are audited by a variety of independent third-party agencies, to ensure neutrality. These include testing agencies like iTech Labs and Technical Systems Testing (TST).

Return to Player (RTP)

All of the science behind how online Slots work is based on the RNG, and therefore so is the RTP. This is the amount a casino or slot game will pay back to its players, and is calculated through gameplay over a long period of time. You will find the RTP in the game descriptions of your favourite slot games in percentage form, but you might have been unfamiliar with what it really meant, especially if you are new to the online slot world.

This may seem simple enough, but sometimes your individual results in a game won’t fall in line with the expected RTP. This is natural, so there’s nothing to worry about, and it also shows just how random slot games can be. 

Due to variance, you could take home different amounts on the same game, at different times. The RTP is not just based on your gameplay, it’s based on thousands of other players too, so results would look more accurate if you were to inspect them all. What most people use RTPs to do is predict how gameplay may go. But, being games of chance, who knows how you will do in your chosen slot game?

With most people mainly focused on playing Slots, the mechanics that operate them are often ignored, but without them you would not be able to find your favourite online game. So, when you next play a game, think about how technical the processes are that amount to such simple gameplay. It’s truly fascinating!