With the massive popularity of online casinos and especially online slot games, there's a question that frequently rears its head: How Are Online Slots Programmed To Payout?
Here at Slots UK, we are going to discuss how online slot payouts work, as well as how random they really are, so keep reading to find out.
How Are Online Slots Programmed?
Let's start with how online slots work. Online slots are programmed using a Random Number Generator (RNG) to produce outcomes that have no pattern and are, therefore, unpredictable.
The RNG generates a multitude of random number sequences every second, each one corresponding to a random assortment of symbols on the reels. The moment the spin button is pressed, the number sequence produced in the same instant is the one used. This sequence is then translated into the symbols you see on the screen.
Is There an Algorithm To Online Slots?
Behind the curtain of flashing lights and spinning symbols lies a carefully crafted algorithm. The RNG uses said complex algorithm to produce the number sequences mentioned above.
While the algorithms themselves are complex and proprietary, they produce outcomes that are random. They work to ensure that every spin is an independent event unaffected by the outcome of previous spins. There is no pattern to identify or a way to influence the RNG algorithm, so there's no way to impact the chances of winning.
What Makes a Slot Machine Payout?
The RNG produces the outcome (i.e. the array of symbols on the reels), and the outcome is evaluated by the slot machine to see if the range of symbols contains any winning combinations according to the paytable. If there are winning combinations, then the appropriate payouts are awarded.
The slot's payout rate is described by the Return to Player (RTP) percentage. This is a theoretical value calculated over a long period encompassing millions (sometimes billions) of sample spins. It describes the portion of money a slot machine takes in that it is likely to pay back out to players over time.
However, due to the random nature of slots, this figure may not be reflected in short-term results. Remember, winning is never guaranteed.
Do Online Slots Cheat?
No, online slots do not cheat. Rest assured, reputable online casinos - like Slots UK - operate within the bounds of strict regulations and oversight. For example, online and land-based casinos in the UK have to be licensed by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) and abide by its regulations in order to operate in this jurisdiction.
Licensed online casinos undergo rigorous testing to ensure the fairness and integrity of their games. Independent auditors scrutinise the algorithms, leaving no room for deceit.
Additionally, casinos do not need to rig online slots to win because of the house edge. The house edge ensures the casino a profit in the long run, so rigging their games is a pointless risk to take.
Do Online Slots Have Memory & Remember What You Won?
In the virtual labyrinth of algorithms, there's a common misconception that online slots have an uncanny memory, recalling past wins and adjusting future outcomes accordingly. However, this couldn't be further from reality.
Online slots themselves lack the capacity for recollection. Each spin is an isolated event separate from previous results. Whether you've just hit the jackpot or endured a streak of losses, the next spin remains oblivious to your gaming history. It's the impartiality of algorithms at play, ensuring that each spin is unpredictable and fair.
The slots may appear to remember what you win, but that is merely a display of your session's stats so far; this is for your benefit to see how your session is going. It does not impact the slot's function in any way.
How Random Are Online Slots?
The RNGs responsible for slot outcomes are designed to be truly random, creating an unpredictable outcome with each spin.
While the human mind may try to seek patterns in chaos, online slots defy such attempts at prediction. The randomness is so ingrained that even the developers themselves can't foresee the outcome of a specific spin.
Play Online Slots at Slots UK
Since we've established how online slots work, you may be wondering where is the best place to play slot games online. Well, you can't go wrong with Slots UK.
Our collection of online slot games has something for everyone. We have Megaways slots, progressive jackpot slots, Slingo, classic 3-reel fruit machine-themed slots, and so much more.
We also add new games to our site frequently, so you can check back to see if there's anything new that piques your interest.
After signing up and depositing funds into your account to play with, you're ready to play online slots.