RNG check: who certifies games and how

RNG check: who certifies games and how

Why RNG and its verification

The random number generator (RNG) is the foundation of mathematical honesty in slots, roulette, card games, and most digital entertainment in online casinos. It is the RNG that determines the result of spin or dealt cards. Without independent verification, it is impossible to ensure that the system does not manipulate the outcomes. Therefore, software providers are required to undergo RNG certification and game mathematics at accredited laboratories.

Who certifies games

RNG certification is carried out by independent test laboratories with international recognition and regulatory licenses. Key players in this market:
  • eCOGRA (eCommerce Online Gaming Regulation and Assurance) is a British organization, one of the most respected; audits RNG, payments and operator systems.
  • GLI (Gaming Laboratories International) is an American company with a global network of laboratories; develops standards and checks software for different jurisdictions.
  • iTech Labs is an Australian laboratory that certifies RNG and RTP for Europe, Asia and beyond.
  • BMM Testlabs is an international organization with more than 30 years of experience, accredited by many regulatory authorities.
  • SIQ, QUINEL, Trisigma are lesser-known but recognized European laboratories operating in local markets.

All of these organizations are accredited according to ISO/IEC standards and have the right to issue opinions to regulators in the UK, Malta, Canada, Australia and other countries.

How is the RNG check going?

Certification consists of several key stages:
  • 1. RNG Source Code Analysis
  • The laboratory studies the algorithm for generating random numbers: robustness to prediction, cryptographic methods, correctness of initial initialization (seeding).

2. Statistical testing
Multimillion-dollar and billion-dollar random number samples are being conducted. Checked:
  • uniformity of distribution;
  • lack of predictable sequences;
  • absence of displacements in certain ranges.

Test packages are used: DIEHARD, NIST Statistical Test Suite, TestU01.

3. Checking RTP and mathematics
In addition to RNG, the work of a specific game is tested: whether the actual return percentage (RTP) coincides with the declared one, whether the winnings are correctly distributed.

4. Integration testing
The laboratory checks how the game works on the provider's server (RGS), excludes the possibility of changing the results retroactively.

5. Certificate issue
As a result, a document is issued with the version number of the game and a description of the parameters (RTP, RNG, audit date, regulation, jurisdictions).

What is checked besides RNG

Transaction integrity: the result of the spin is recorded in the logs and cannot be changed.
Secure connections - Encrypt between client and server.
Backup mechanisms: correct operation in case of disconnection or failure.
Game versioning: so that the casino does not replace the certified assembly with an unaudited one.

How often is audited

Primary certification is mandatory for the game to enter the market.
Periodic audits - depending on jurisdiction: once a year or when updating the version.
Retests - for any change in RNG code, math, payout interface, or rates.

What it means for the player

For the player, the RNG certificate is a guarantee that each spin is independent, random and corresponds to the declared RTP. The presence of a document from a recognized laboratory means that:
  • the casino cannot "wind up" the result in its favor;
  • the probability of winning is the same for all players;
  • the outcome of the game does not depend on the time of day, the size of the balance or previous bets.

Result

Software providers cannot release games without certified RNG. Independent laboratories like eCOGRA, GLI, iTech Labs or BMM Testlabs conduct detailed checks of algorithms and statistical samples to eliminate manipulation. For the industry, this is a guarantee of trust, for players - a confirmation of honesty, and for operators - the ability to legally work in licensed jurisdictions.