Online table games such as blackjack, roulette, and baccarat rely on randomness to replicate the unpredictability found in physical casinos. Since there are no physical cards, dice, or wheels, online casinos use Random Number Generators (RNGs) to simulate these elements. RNGs are the backbone of fair play in the iGaming world. They ensure that outcomes are unbiased, unpredictable, and independent, allowing players to trust that every deal or spin is as fair as in a real-world casino—if not more.
What Is an RNG?
A Random Number Generator is a computer algorithm designed to produce a sequence of numbers that cannot be reasonably predicted. These numbers correspond to in-game outcomes: card values in blackjack, the ball landing in roulette, or the result of a dice roll.
There are two types of RNGs commonly used in gaming:
- Pseudo-Random Number Generators (PRNGs): Most online games use PRNGs. These rely on an initial seed value and mathematical formulas to generate results that appear random but are entirely deterministic if you know the seed and the algorithm.
- True Random Number Generators (TRNGs): Less common due to higher costs, TRNGs use physical phenomena (like atmospheric noise or radioactive decay) to produce truly random values.
For the vast majority of online table games, PRNGs are sufficient, provided they’re properly implemented and tested.
How RNGs Work in Table Games
In a game of online blackjack, for instance, the RNG generates random numbers that correspond to cards in a virtual deck. Each time a player hits or stands, a new number is produced, and the next card is drawn. In roulette, the RNG picks a number between 0 and 36 (or up to 38 in American roulette), simulating the ball’s landing position.
The key principle is independence. Every number or outcome is generated without influence from previous rounds, meaning the past has no bearing on the future. This prevents patterns or streaks from forming artificially—ensuring each result stands on its own.
Fairness Through Certification and Auditing
Just because a casino says it’s using RNGs doesn’t mean they’re automatically fair. That’s where certification and independent auditing come into play. Reputable casinos work with third-party testing labs such as:
- eCOGRA
- iTech Labs
- GLI (Gaming Laboratories International)
- TST (Technical Systems Testing)
These organizations rigorously test RNG systems to ensure:
- Numbers are uniformly distributed
- No bias or predictability is detectable
- The algorithm meets international standards for randomness
- The system is secure from tampering
Once certified, casinos often publish their audit certificates and fairness seals to provide transparency for players.
Preventing Manipulation and Bias
RNGs are deeply embedded into the game code, making manipulation difficult when hosted on secure, licensed platforms. Reputable online casinos use encrypted servers and frequently rotate or reseed their PRNGs to further prevent any chance of predictability or fraud.
Additionally, certified RNGs undergo real-time monitoring, alerting developers and operators if anomalies or patterns emerge that suggest tampering or malfunction. These safeguards are essential for maintaining player trust and regulatory compliance.
Misconceptions About RNGs
Some players are skeptical of RNGs, believing the outcomes are rigged in favor of the casino. However, most misunderstandings arise from confirmation bias or losing streaks that feel unfair.
It’s important to remember:
- RNGs don’t “know” how much a player has won or lost
- RNG outcomes are not affected by bet size or game history
- Games are programmed with a mathematical house edge, but the outcomes themselves remain random
Understanding this distinction helps demystify how online table games truly work and reassures players that losing streaks are a product of chance—not manipulation.
Final Thoughts
RNGs are the invisible mechanics behind fair and secure online table games. When properly implemented and audited, they ensure that every hand of blackjack, spin of the roulette wheel, or roll of the dice is just as unpredictable as it would be in a physical casino.
As online gaming continues to evolve, the role of RNGs remains central to ensuring integrity, fairness, and player confidence. By recognizing the technology and the safeguards in place, players can enjoy their favorite table games knowing they’re betting on a system designed to be as fair as possible.