How Fair Is Provably Fair, Exactly?

Bojana Grozdanic November 8, 2023
How Fair Is Provably Fair, Exactly?

Provably fair is the buzzword echoing through online gambling corridors. But beyond the jargon, how does it truly ensure every wager is on the level? Let’s dissect the intricacies and shine a light on provable fairness, RNGs, and their role in the legitimacy game.

What Is Provably Fair Gambling?

At its core, provably fair gambling is the gold standard for fairness in the online gambling industry. But how so? 

It allows players to have concrete proof that each game they play is genuinely random and hasn’t been manipulated. Through the use of cryptographic algorithms, both the player and the gambling site generate random values, and their combination determines the game’s outcome. 

At the end of a game, players have the tools to check and verify that everything was above board. It’s the ultimate comfort for online gamblers, making sure every roll, spin, or draw can be checked for true fairness.

The ABCs of Provably Fair Gambling  

Provably fair gambling might sound complex, but when broken down, it’s a straightforward system rooted in transparency. Let’s take a step-by-step look at the mechanisms that guarantee fairness.

The Three Pillars of Fair Play

The client seed, server seed, and nonce are foundational elements that determine how outcomes are generated:

  • Client Seed: This is like your personal touch to the game’s outcome. It’s a random number generated by your device (like your computer or smartphone). Think of it as throwing your own dice in a board game.
  • Server Seed: Generated by the online casino’s server, this seed is the casino’s contribution to the game. It remains hidden (or hashed) during a game to prevent any player from predicting the outcome. Once the round ends, it’s revealed for verification purposes.
  • Nonce: A counter that increases with each game round you play. Imagine it as a tally mark, keeping track of how many times you’ve played while guaranteeing each round is unique and can’t be replicated.

Instruments of Integrity

Here’s the tech arsenal that keeps online gambling honest and open:

  • Random Number Generators (RNGs): Typically employed by traditional casinos and used in popular game types like online slots and video poker. As the name suggests, these are algorithms that produce random numbers, making certain each game’s outcome is unpredictable. 
  • Seed Generators: Both the client and server seeds are produced using these generators, which further randomizes the game.
  • Hashes: This is a way of encrypting, or ‘hiding,’ the server seed during a game. Once the game ends, the original seed is disclosed, allowing players to verify it against the initial hashed (encrypted) version.

In the Spotlight: Provably Fair vs. Regular Online Casinos 

Now that you have a better understanding of provably fair casinos, you are probably wondering what the difference is between these and their traditional counterparts and which option is best. Take a look at the table below for a quick comparison of provably fair and traditional online casinos in key areas:

AspectProvably Fair CasinosTraditional Casinos
Random outcomesYes, verifiable on the blockchainYes, but verification is internal
TransparencyAlgorithm is openly visibleAlgorithm is proprietary & hidden
VerificationPlayers can independently verify resultsRelies on third-party audits
Currency usedMainly cryptocurrencyFiat currency & sometimes crypto
Game qualityVaries; most games with top-notch graphicsTypically high-quality graphics
Trust mechanismSelf-auditing by playersRequires trust in casino & licensors
PopularityGrowing rapidlyAlready widely popular
LicensingOften bypasses traditional licensingRequires licensing in many countries

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Just because provably fair casinos allow players to verify the random outcome of games themselves, does not mean regular online casinos do not apply due diligence in their running of RNGs. All reputable online casinos are required by law to ensure fair gambling opportunities, with regular RNG audits done and often displayed as proof of the casino’s transparency and commitment to providing fair game outcomes.

Can Provably Fair Gambling Be Manipulated? 

Each provably fair bet is associated with a set of encrypted values, which can be audited by the player after the game. Tampering is a herculean task due to the dual contribution of both player and casino in generating outcomes via the client and server seeds.

If any foul play were present, it would be glaringly obvious during the verification process. The blockchain’s integration further strengthens this system. Outcomes aren’t just saved; they’re embedded into an immutable digital structure, making after-the-fact changes impossible. 

However, most people still find the process of verifying bets to be a little complicated.

  • So, when you’re taking a seat at a provably fair gambling table, you’re not only playing the odds of the game but also reveling in the assurance that the outcome is untouched, genuine, and verifiable.

Should You Bet on Provably Fair Games?

You’ve probably heard whispers (or likely, loud endorsements) of provably fair games. Here’s a quick rundown on why they’re worth your time:

Crystal Clear Transparency

Unlike traditional games where you’re mostly taking the casino’s word for it, provably fair games lay all their cards on the table. Every move, every outcome is open for you to verify. It’s the kind of transparency that puts power back into the player’s hands.

Better Odds with Higher RTP

Provably fair games tend to offer a higher RTP—a higher RTP means you generally get more bang for your buck. Simply put, you’re looking at better odds and potentially more frequent payouts.

Quality Gaming with Enticing Features

Don’t mistake transparency for dullness. These games are usually packed with top-tier graphics, compelling narratives, and special features.

Trust Redefined With Provably Fair Games

As blockchain technology continues to gain recognition, players increasingly understand the significance of engaging in such games. While some may require a bit of effort to comprehend and verify through hashes, the best online casinos maintain transparent processes. You can rely on their integrity, or opt for the convenience of provably fair casino apps.

Ultimately, provably fair games offer a remarkable benefit—fair, transparent, and open for your scrutiny. Your peace of mind is a sure bet when you play with provably fair technology.

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