Online or offline, algorithms in machines operate on the fundamentally same principles. Slots have always been a hot topic and an example of how algorithms work. The starting action where we insert a coin, pull a lever, and the slot machine spins various reels transitioned to our digital landscape. And while online slots may seem different, very similar actions are happening in the background behind every digital spin, as they did in their real-life counterparts. To best explain the science of algorithms, we’ll dive deep below.
1. RNG
If we think of each slot symbol as a number, we can see how each reel would have a certain chance to stop at one symbol. Now, assign a number to each reel, and you’ll better understand how the algorithm behind randomizes the outcome. A random number generator picks all of these numbers at a random sequence with each pull, and once done, the slot machine stops and displays the outcome.
Even Vegas slot machines operate at the same principle, and Jonathan Askew dives into even more detail in his article, but the base principle applies to all online slots. If a reel has ten symbols, then the chance of stopping at each one is one out of 10. And if you have five reels, then the algorithm only has to do the same calculation five times, and the results appear instantly before the player.
2. RTP
Return-to-player is part of the slot algorithm, mainly in charge of bringing in new players, making them choose one slot over another (or even one casino over another), and for player retention. The easiest way to explain RTP would be with 100$ worth of spins. If you get 90$ back, the RTP is set to 90%, favoring the player on any slot machine. RTP is always set towards the player, and the remaining percentage represents the house edge (we’ll cover this soon).
These two factors combine into the algorithm and affect the outcomes of each slot pull over a set period. Naturally, high-ranking casinos will always aim to offer a high RTP value, as it shows that, in theory, players have a better chance of winning, on average, when playing slots. To ensure fair play RTP combines with RNG, making each pull truly random. Whether the player wins or loses is still up to chance, and each pull has an equal percentage for both outcomes.
3. House edge
Hose edge represents the benefit a casino operator gains on each slot machine over a set period. When we look at a price displayed per spin on slots, we would see a dollar, for example. If the house edge is 1%, then each slot pull would give one cent back to the operator, and this house edge setting is calculated into the online slots algorithm.
Compared to RTP, house edge is better when lower, as it means players have a higher chance of winning. These and other algorithm methods in online casinos use plenty of operant conditioning techniques, combining them with RNG, RTP, and other factors to motivate players and keep each slot pull interesting.
