Are Online Slots for Real Money Rigged? Debunking the Myth!

When playing online slots for real money quite often, it's easy to start throwing tantrums and blaming the online casino. The thing is that most of your spin results will result in a loss rather than a win.

Which begs the question; are real casino slots online rigged? Well, the truth is that slot machines are rigged. But not just the way you're already thinking. So, read on to find out!

The Slot RNG: Why is it Important?

Random Number Generators (RNG) are always not far from the equation if you want to know how online slots function. RNG gives players a fair chance of winning or losing a spin. 

Basically, it's a code written in the game's system to produce billions of random outcomes per second. And you know what? This happens even when the machine is idle. 

It's also important to note that the game system itself has no memory. Therefore, it's almost impossible for anyone to hack it and pre-determine the subsequent outcome. 

This means you have an equal chance of hitting that jackpot immediately after hitting the first one. So yes, online slot machines are rigged to generate results, but not in a way that anyone can use in their favor. 

The Concept of RTP

RTP (Return to Player) is the rate at which the slot machine pays back for every 100 coins wagered. In other words, it's the theoretical payout of a slot machine. For example, assuming that a slot has a 96% return rate, players can win a maximum of 100 coins.

But here's the painful fact; the 96% RTP doesn't mean that you can win 96 coins for every 100 or 960 coins for every 1,000. That's because the RTP only applies when you make billions of spins. 

Look at it like this; for every 100 million wagered on the Mega Moolah jackpot, the online casino keeps 4 million. The remaining 96 million is shared among lucky players. So you see, the RTP ensures that the machine remains random by removing the casino out of play. 

Game Testing is Key

If you read the online casino selection guides here, playing at the best online casinos isn't an option. These casinos generally feature games that have been tested for fairness and transparency by bodies like eCOGRA, iTech Labs,  and Gaming Associates. 

In layman's words, these testing houses certify that the RNG system of the game is fair and transparent.

Besides playing tested games, it's also vital to choose games supplied by renowned game developers. Don't skip a chance to play games from NetEnt, Microgaming, Betsoft, Playtech, and other household names. These game developers have an international reputation to protect. 

How to Spot Rigged Online Slots

Up to this point, it's beyond reasonable doubt that online slot results are fair and square. But don't be complacent. Below are a few handy tips for playing it safe at all times:

1. Check Casino Licensing Information

This one is all you. You won't have anyone to blame after playing at an unregulated casino. Regulated casinos operate under strict gambling laws stipulated by the regulatory authority or government. So, only play at an online casino licensed by the UK Gambling Commission, MGA, Curacao Government, and so on.

2. Return Rate

As said before, the return rate of a slot machine is one thing that makes it fair and transparent. Unfortunately, some rogue game developers and casinos take advantage of this feature. Often, if the RTP is too good to be true, then it probably is. 

The most reliable game developers cap this rate at anything between 95% and 97%. However, if the return rate is sky-high and the slot machine is from a trusted source, the better.

3. Player Reviews

What are players saying about the slot machine? Has it ever paid out a decent sum? Answer these questions and many others before playing slots at a casino online. You'll even realize that some game developers have court cases regarding unfair gameplay. So, do your homework.

Conclusion

Overall, most slot machines you'll find at an online casino are absolutely fair and transparent. The random number generator dishes out billions of results per second, making the game results practically unpredictable. Also, the house edge means that the casinos keep their cut whether you win or lose.

But in case you feel the slot machine is rigged, stop playing and forward and email to the casino support. It might be a technical issue that the casino isn't probably aware of. Make sure you indicate the name of the game, the software developer, and why you think the game isn't fair.

If the casino's response isn't satisfactory, upscale the matter to the casino's regulatory body. Most gaming bodies would gladly discuss this matter with the casino and game developer in question. Now that's another solid reason to play at a licensed and regulated gambling site.