Author: Robert Kazinsky, Last Updated: March 12th, 2023

Understanding Baccarat and Casino RNGs

When it comes to casino games, fairness and randomness are paramount. Players need to know that the games they are playing are not rigged and that the casino is not cheating them out of their money. This is where Random Number Generators (RNGs) come in. An RNG is a complex mathematical algorithm that produces a random result every time, ensuring that each spin of a slot machine or hand of cards is truly random. RNGs are used in virtual games at online casinos, where there is no human input from the casino. In this article, we will take a closer look at RNGs and their role in ensuring fair play, particularly in the game of baccarat. We will discuss how RNGs work, the differences between virtual and live games, and the strategies players can use to maximize their winnings. We will also explore who tests casino RNGs and the significance of RNG certification in online casinos.

How Do RNGs Work?

RNGs can be divided into three categories: Pseudo RNGs, Hardware RNGs, and True RNGs. Pseudo RNGs are the most commonly used type in online casinos, and they work by starting with a seed number and running it through a series of algorithms to produce a seemingly random result. Although the algorithms are not truly random, they are so complex that it is practically impossible to predict the next result without access to the actual code. Hardware RNGs, on the other hand, use physical devices to extract randomness from unpredictable physical phenomena, such as radioactive isotopes or atmospheric noise. True RNGs are similar to hardware RNGs in that they also extract randomness from physical phenomena, but they use methods that are completely unpredictable, such as the static caused by lightning discharges.

Reputable online casinos use Pseudo RNGs for their virtual games and submit them for third-party testing to ensure that they are truly random and fair. These tests are carried out by independent testing agencies such as eCOGRA, IGL, iTechLAbs, QUINEL, and TST. The testing agencies will assess the RNGs for their randomness and ensure that they are not influenced by any external factors. Casinos that pass the tests will receive a certificate, which they can proudly display on their website to demonstrate that their games are truly random and fair. As a result, players can have confidence in the fairness of the games they are playing and enjoy their time at the casino.

The Difference Between Virtual Games and Live Games

In online casinos, there are two types of games: virtual games and live games. Virtual games are purely software-based, and there is no human input from the side of the casino. They use an RNG to determine the outcome of the game, ensuring that each result is random and unbiased. On the other hand, live games feature a live dealer who deals the cards, spins the ball in the roulette wheel, and so on. In live games, there is no need for an RNG as long as the game is properly shuffled or unbiased. As long as the dealer is following the rules and procedures, the results of the game will be genuinely random.

Some games, such as Evolution Gaming’s First-Person series, combine elements of both virtual and live games. These games are virtual, but they give players the option to switch to playing with a live dealer. The virtual game uses an RNG to determine the outcome, while the live game is just like any other live game in a land-based casino. The difference between the randomness and fairness of a virtual or live game is negligible. If there were any significant differences, then the house edge, odds, and payouts would have to be different to compensate for them.

How an RNG Contributes to Baccarat

When playing virtual baccarat, the role of the RNG is to ensure that the shoes are genuinely random. This means that the cards must be in a truly random order so that it is impossible to predict which card will be drawn next. An RNG is used to determine the order of the cards in the shoe, making it impossible for players or the casino to predict the order of the cards.

There are various procedures in place to ensure that the baccarat shoes are fair and random. For instance, the Burn card rules state that the first card is revealed, and if it is worth 0 points, then ten cards are burned. If the card is an Ace, only one card is burned. Otherwise, between 2 and 9 cards are burned, depending on the pip value of the revealed card. The Cut card rules state that the cut card is positioned between the 400th and 401st card. If the cut card comes out mid-hand, the hand is finished, and one more is played before shuffling occurs. If it comes out instead of the first Player card, then one full round is played before shuffling.

To help demonstrate the role of an RNG in virtual baccarat, we have created a Baccarat Shoe Generator. This tool generates 100 random baccarat shoes, with the option of choosing between six or eight decks. The generator uses a Pseudo RNG called a Mersenne Twister in conjunction with a Fisher-Yates shuffle, which is a highly respected algorithm for producing a random ordering of a finite sequence, such as a pack of cards. The generator also follows the conventional rules governing burn cards and cut cards. The Baccarat Shoe Generator can be a useful tool for players who want to test their betting strategies in a completely random and unbiased environment.

Strategies to Beat an RNG

Theoretically, it is possible to beat a Pseudo RNG by reverse engineering it so that you know what will happen next. However, in practice, it is incredibly difficult. Modern RNGs have a great deal of security built into them, and without access to the actual code, they are virtually impossible to manipulate. There is no reliable casino RNG predictor, as any predictor would compromise the randomness of the game.

Rather than trying to beat the RNG, players are far more likely to have success by carefully managing their bankroll and using tried and tested baccarat betting strategies. By minimizing the house edge and maximizing the chances of winning, players can improve their chances of success over the long term. This includes using betting strategies like the Martingale system, the Paroli system, and the Fibonacci system, which have been proven to be effective in baccarat.

In addition to using proven betting strategies, players should also pay close attention to their bankroll management. This includes setting a budget and sticking to it, not chasing losses, and knowing when to quit while ahead. By following these strategies, players can enjoy their time playing baccarat while minimizing their risk of loss.

Who Tests the Casino RNGs

To ensure that casino RNGs are genuinely random, they are tested by independent third-party organizations. The five major organizations that test casino RNGs are eCOGRA, IGL, iTechLAbs, QUINEL, and TST. These organizations are highly respected internationally and are trusted by gambling regulators to ensure that a casino’s or developer’s games are genuinely random and fair.

In the past, players may have wondered what RNG certification is. It simply means that the casino has been tested by one of these agencies and that their RNG has been found to be genuinely random. Any reputable online casino will have their RNG tested and will proudly display their certification on their website. Players can easily check for RNG certification by looking for logos or certificates from one of these third-party testing organizations.

By choosing to play at an RNG-certified casino, players can enjoy peace of mind, knowing that the games they are playing are genuinely random and unbiased. This way, they can focus their attention on playing their favorite games, such as baccarat, and enjoying the excitement of the game.

Conclusion

Random Number Generators (RNGs) play a critical role in ensuring fair play in virtual casino games. By generating random numbers on demand, RNGs help to ensure that games are completely unbiased and that the results are entirely random.

There are different types of RNGs, including Pseudo RNGs, Hardware RNGs, and True RNGs, which work in slightly different ways. Most reputable online casinos use Pseudo RNGs and submit them for third-party testing, which ensures that their games are fair and unbiased.

In virtual baccarat, an RNG ensures that the shoes are genuinely random, making it impossible for players or the casino to predict which card will be drawn next. Strategies such as careful bankroll management and proven betting systems can help maximize winnings in baccarat and other casino games.

It is essential to choose an online casino that is RNG certified to ensure that their games are truly random and unbiased. By playing at an RNG-certified casino, players can enjoy their favorite games, such as baccarat, with complete peace of mind. Overall, RNG testing and certification is crucial to ensuring the integrity and fairness of virtual casino games, and players should always verify an online casino’s certification before playing any game.