There isn’t a person in the world that have played online video slots and not doubted whether the game is rigged or not. This happens especially when you are suffering from a long dry spell when you cannot win if your life depends on it.
There are many reasons for players to think that the games are fixed. For example, how many people do you know that have won some of the big jackpots that are on the offer? Or how can we be sure that the online providers are doing everything by the book? Here are several pointers that you might find useful the next time you decide to spin the reels online.
RTP and Variance are Very Important
First of all, you need to realize that, unlike land-based slot machines, video slots do not exist as a physical matter. It all comes down to numbers with online video slots. Well, probably one of the most important numbers when it comes to video slots is the RTP. The theoretical return to player will tell you how much does the slot pay back to players.
For example, we are always looking for games that have an RTP of 96% or above. This means that, in theory, every slot that offers an RTP of 96% or more will pay back at least $96 for every $100 wagered. The return to player is predetermined in online slots, and cannot be changed, except when the game itself says that the RTP rises as you increase your bets, or when you play a certain Bonus game.
In certain countries, the lowest RTP percentage possible in a game is defined by law and if they go under the minimum, they will subject to legal action.
Another important aspect that you need to consider is the variance of the game. We have video slots of low, medium, and high variance. Slots with high variance will not pay that often, but the wins will be huge. On the other hand, with video slots of low variance, the payouts will come quite regularly, but will not be that big.
Random Number Generators Secure Fair Chance of Winning
RNGs or random number generators is something we need to talk about when discussing whether video slots are rigged or not. Since the game is all about the numbers and algorithms, we need to make sure that there is a certain code incorporated that will secure a fair chance of both winning and losing.
Since most of the players are not computer geeks, we will try to explain in plain words what the function of the RNG is. It is a simple code incorporated into the structure of the game itself, allowing random numbers to be generated. In that way, the random number generator secures the same winning chances to all players.
Once you spin the reels, RNGs will send a set of numbers to the system. The generated numbers are then translated into the results that then we see on the reels. Now, you may wonder that, if the RNG displays a random set of numbers, how is it possible to guarantee the stated RTP of the game, but believe us when we tell you that these two work together and that the RNG does not mess with the RTP.
The best part of the story is that the system has no memory and will not influence on winning or losing. So, it does not matter whether you have been losing for a long time, the system will not see that and reward you with a massive win so as to reward you for your persistency.
Independent Regulatory Authorities Keep Us Safe
Even though there are plenty of iGaming industry giants out there that may seem trustworthy, if you want to be 100% sure that you are playing a video slot that is completely regular, simply check whether the provider or the online casino you are playing at has the necessary licenses.
Even though the programs, and the numbers, and the algorithms seem okay, you cannot feel completely safe if the game you are playing does not have all the licenses required. As we have already said, we are not computer geeks, and there are people whose job is to make sure that all the games that are on the offer are completely in order with the laws.
Apart from the game providers, all platforms need to have a trustworthy casino license, as well as all online casinos. Trust us when we tell you that the people checking out online casinos are professionals and that they are very good at what they do.
They are incredibly thorough in their check-ups because there are so many criteria that software providers and online casinos, as well as platforms, need to meet in order to get their licenses. Now, once they get through the check-up, do not think that the job is over, because there will be plenty of controls heading their way from time to time, simply to see whether they are still on track.
Do a Thorough Research Before You Start Playing
Now, we are coming to the most important part of the text. After considering all the above-mentioned aspects, you are probably wondering how to pick the proper game and the proper venue. All we have to say about that is – do thorough research.
If you see an online casino that you like, do not go and give them all your money at once. First, make sure that they have a very good personal data security. Always look for venues that are regulated, otherwise, no one can guarantee your safety.
The same thing goes for picking the proper video slot. First of all, you need to do some research, concerning the RTP, variance, payouts, bonus features, etc. The trick is to know what you are getting in before you start playing.
If you are not sure about a certain casino or a certain game, simply visit the next place, somewhere where you and your money will be completely secure.
