Online slots are by far the most popular casino games worldwide. Players may feel suspicious when they hit a losing streak or the same symbols appear frequently. Some believe slots are programmed to deprive players of wins during bonus rounds or when jackpots are close to hitting. In reality, all legit regulated online slots today use random number generators (RNGs) to ensure fair results. RNGs are complex algorithms that continuously generate random symbol outcomes at an astronomical rate. Top providers like Microgaming and NetEnt have their RNG systems tested and certified by independent auditors.
While coincidental symbol repetitions can and do occur, the math behind modern RNGs makes systematic manipulation virtually impossible. Reputable online casinos are also routinely audited to guarantee the integrity of slot outcomes for players. Another suspicion around online slots is that they deliberately pay out less than their advertised rate. Most slots have a published return-to-player (RTP) rate, which is the theoretical payout percentage over millions of spins. Some believe slots are rigged to pay less than their stated RTP.
In regulated markets, online slots must contain RNG systems proven to statistically match up with their advertised RTPs. For example, if a slot has a 96% RTP, results over an extremely large sample size of spins will approach a 96% payback rate. Brief hitting above or below the RTP is normal due to randomness, but the average payouts align with stated rates over the long run. Slot outcomes are also not impacted by previous spins, wins, or losses. A slot’s RTP is an overall average, not a cycle that varies from high to low. There is no short-term manipulation of payout rates.
Myths of cold and hot slots
You may hear slots described as running hot and cold, implying machines pay out more during winning streaks and less after big hits. It is false – legit online slots have no memory or cycles influencing payouts. Results are determined entirely randomly for each spin. A slot never gets hot or cold, since previous spins don’t affect the chance of winning or RTP for future plays. Streaks occur because of the laws of probability, not deliberate manipulation. Over many spins, results adhere to the consistent RTP rateClick here for more info.
Bonus myths
Some believe slots to limit payouts from bonuses or make jackpots harder to hit. In reality, all game aspects like bonus rounds and jackpots use certified RNGs for fair results. Base game and bonus payout percentages must match advertised rates over sufficient sample sizes. It includes jackpot drop frequencies being consistent. Brief lucky or unlucky streaks can warp perceptions around bonuses and jackpots. But over time, their payouts and hit rates align with stated odds. Online slots cannot alter RTPs or change programmed jackpot frequencies on the fly.
Live dealer slots
For added assurance, live dealer slots are a great option. Games like Lightning Dice allow playing slots with a real human dealer and physical equipment via live video stream. It provides the convenience of online slots with the transparency of an in-person pit boss overseeing results. Seeing real dice rolled or wheels spun alleviates concerns around RNG fairness for some players. Yet even RNG slots are statistically provable and fair under proper regulation and testing.
