Alright, let’s cut to the chase: RNGs — or Random Number Generators — are the backbone of every online casino game, yet they’re surrounded by myths and misunderstandings that can seriously mislead players. It’s easy to think these algorithms are rigged to cheat you, or that they somehow predict when you’ll win or lose. But hold on… what if these common beliefs are more fiction than fact?
Today, we’ll unpack five of the most persistent myths about RNGs, dispel the confusion with real-world examples and practical insights, and help you navigate the often murky waters of online gambling with a clearer head. Whether you’re spinning pokies or hitting blackjack tables online, understanding how RNGs work is crucial for managing expectations and playing responsibly.
First things first, if you’re curious about exploring a broad selection of games underpinned by RNG technology, platforms like frumzi offer thousands of pokies and table games on a secure, reputable site accessible for Australian players. But more on that later — let’s get the facts straight first.
Myth 1: RNGs Can Predict or Influence Your Luck
Here’s the thing: a lot of players believe that RNGs somehow “know” when you’re due for a win. That feeling when the machine seems to “hold back” wins until the right moment is a classic gambler’s fallacy. At first glance, the way some pokies behave — long droughts followed by sudden jackpots — seems to support this. But that’s just variance doing its job.
RNGs generate outcomes by producing sequences of numbers using complex algorithms. These sequences are designed to be unpredictable and not influenced by previous results. Their purpose is to simulate randomness as closely as possible, but they don’t “predict” outcomes or “hold” wins.
For instance, the slot “Mega Fortune” has an RTP of ~96.6%, which means over millions of spins, you can expect to get back around $96.60 per $100 wagered on average. But in the short term, you might lose $500 quickly, then hit a jackpot unexpectedly. That’s the nature of volatility, not a “rigged” RNG.
Myth 2: Casinos Control the RNG to Favor the House
Many folks think that operators can tweak RNGs to make you lose more often. It’s tempting to pin blame on the casino when things go south, but that’s a simplification that doesn’t hold water.
Regulated casinos undergo stringent RNG audits from independent labs like eCOGRA, iTech Labs, or GLI. These third parties verify that the RNG outputs meet fair randomness criteria and that the Return to Player percentages match what the games advertise. If an operator tampers with the RNG, they risk losing their license and face legal penalties.
Of course, not all jurisdictions are equally strict. Many Australian players play on internationally licensed sites (often Curacao or Malta). While these licenses offer some oversight, the regulatory rigor varies. For example, the casino platform frumzi, operating under Curacao, features games from top-tier providers with certified RNGs, which ensures fairness at the game level, even if the operator’s reputation requires careful consideration.
Myth 3: RNGs Are “Seeded” and Can Be Manipulated Mid-Game
Seed values pick a starting point for RNG algorithms. Some players worry casinos reset or alter seeds mid-spin to change outcomes. It sounds sneaky, right? But here’s the technical truth: modern RNGs use complex cryptographic techniques that generate seeds internally, often relying on environmental noise or system clocks.
These seeds are not static or manually set per player or game session. Instead, they ensure that outcomes are unpredictable and independent. Plus, reputable software providers publish detailed information about their RNG mechanisms, including how seeds are generated and refreshed. This is especially the case for online pokies from providers like NetEnt, Microgaming, or Play’n GO.
Manipulating seeds mid-game would require real-time interference and would be immediately detectable by frequent audits. This makes such manipulation virtually impossible without detection.
Myth 4: RNGs Guarantee You’ll Win or Lose Based on Patterns
Stop right there. Believing that “slots are hot” or “due for a payout” is a classic cognitive bias called the gambler’s fallacy. Players often look for patterns in what is essentially pure randomness, like trying to predict if the next spin or hand will be a winner based on recent outcomes.
RNGs do not “balance” wins and losses over short sessions. Each spin or hand is independent. For example, if you lose 10 spins in a row, the chance of winning on the 11th spin is unchanged — still determined by the RTP and volatility of the game.
This is why bankroll management and accepting variance are key for responsible play. You might have a bad run or a lucky streak, but neither is dictated by any pattern the RNG follows.
Myth 5: You Can Beat RNGs With Strategies or Timing
Alright, check this out — many players try to “time” their bets or use betting systems like Martingale to overcome RNG-based games. The truth is, RNG outcomes are resistant to such strategies except in skill-based games like poker where player decisions matter.
Pokies and many table games (except poker variants) rely entirely on RNGs. No amount of timing or pattern recognition affects the results. For example, doubling your bet after a loss in roulette won’t change the probability of the next spin being red or black (which is a 48.65% chance in European roulette), only your risk exposure.
In blackjack, while RNGs handle card shuffling in online versions, strategy decisions (like hit or stand) do matter. But the randomness of card draws remains fixed. Using basic strategy reduces the house edge but doesn’t “beat” the RNG.
Quick Checklist: Understanding RNGs for New Players
- RNGs produce unpredictable, unbiased outcomes for casino games.
- They are audited regularly to ensure fairness by independent labs.
- Outcomes are independent and not influenced by previous results.
- Regulatory licenses affect how strictly RNG standards are enforced.
- Strategies cannot alter the randomness but can manage risk.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- Ignoring variance: Don’t confuse short-term swings with patterns or “due” wins.
- Believing in “hot” or “cold” machines: Each spin is random; avoid chasing losses.
- Trusting unverified sites: Play only on casinos with proper RNG certification and licensing.
- Overestimating betting systems: Know their limits and risks in RNG-based games.
- Skipping KYC verification: This process ensures security and honesty in payouts; delaying it can cause withdrawal problems.
Mini-FAQ About RNGs in Online Casinos
How do I know if an RNG is fair?
Look for independent testing certificates from auditors like eCOGRA or iTech Labs on the casino or game provider’s site. Reputable operators disclose these details transparently.
Can I influence the RNG outcome by timing my bets?
Nope. RNG outcomes are independent and unpredictable; timing your bets does not impact results.
Are live dealer games RNG-based?
Live dealer games rely on real cards and human dealers streamed live, so outcomes aren’t generated by RNGs, but the shuffle and dealing are supervised to ensure fairness.
Is it safer to play on locally licensed casinos in Australia?
Yes, local licenses offer stronger player protections, but many international casinos licensed elsewhere offer solid games and RNG fairness too. Just be aware of regulatory differences and payout risks.
Comparison Table: RNG Licensing and Player Protection Levels
| License | Jurisdiction | Audit Rigor | Player Protection Level | Common for Australian Players? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) | Europe | High | Strong | Yes |
| UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) | UK | Very High | Very Strong | Rare for AU players |
| Curacao eGaming | Curacao (Caribbean) | Moderate | Lower | Popular |
| Comoros (Anjouan Gaming Authority) | Comoros Islands | Low to Moderate | Low | Occasional |
To put it simply, if you’re playing at a casino like frumzi, which operates under a Curacao license but sources games exclusively from well-known providers with independently certified RNGs, you get decent assurance about game fairness. However, keep in mind that local Australian consumer protections won’t fully apply, so practicing caution with deposits and withdrawals is wise.
One last thing — always remember to gamble responsibly. Set deposit limits, understand wagering requirements on bonuses, and use self-exclusion tools if you feel your play is becoming problematic. The thrill of chance is exciting, but it should never compromise your financial health or well-being.
You must be 18+ to play. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, support is available via Gamblers Anonymous Australia and Gambling Help Online.
Sources
- https://www.ecogra.org/
- https://www.itechlabs.com/
- https://www.mga.org.mt/
- https://www.gamblinghelponline.org.au/
About the Author
Alexei Ivanov is an iGaming expert with over a decade of experience in online gambling research and player education. He specialises in casino fairness, bonus analysis, and the psychology of betting. Alexei has contributed to industry publications and helps Australian players navigate the complexities of international casinos.