GLI: "How Casino Games are Tested"

These standards cover critical aspects like the random number generator (RNG) for unpredictable outcomes, expected return to player (RTP) percentages, and award odds, among others. Independent labs like GLI rigorously test every requirement for each market where a game is deployed, ensuring compliance and fostering confidence among regulators, operators, and players. Certification focuses on two key areas: platform testing, which evaluates hardware and software, and game-specific testing to verify individual game design.

Platform Testing

EGMs must meet specific hardware requirements, which vary by jurisdiction, but generally focus on security, and safety. When testing a new machine cabinet, labs assess components like locks and seals to secure sensitive areas, door sensors to detect tampering, bill validators, voucher printers, touchscreens or button panels, and electromechanical meters for accounting. Testing confirms that these components comply with local regulations and that critical areas are independently locked as required.

The software controlling the EGM, often called the main program, base program, or operating system, is thoroughly tested to ensure compliance with non-game-specific requirements, including:

• Random number generator (RNG) Ensures accurate, random game outcomes.
• Non-volatile memory: Preserves data, like player credits and game states during power loss.
• Metering: Tracks wagers and payouts for accurate audits.
• Credit issuance and redemption: Manages player funds reliably.
• Interruption recovery: Ensures no loss of data in events like power outages or door openings.
• Game recall: Allows operators to review recent games for dispute resolution.

Game Testing

Game testing is a core part of the certification process, as each EGM platform may support hundreds of unique games. This testing validates the design and performance of individual games. To ensure a game works as intended, GLI typically creates an independent simulation based on the game’s source code, mathematical documentation, and game rules, running billions of simulated games. These simulations, far exceeding the expected real-world play, verify that the RTP matches the intended design and meets jurisdictional requirements (e.g., a minimum RTP of 80% in some regions or 85% in others). Labs also confirm that the odds of advertised prizes and/or top awards comply with regulations.

Gameplay and payout verification may use specialized tools or software to force specific outcomes, such as unique pay combinations, bonus rounds, multi-line or multi-ways wins, and jackpots. This ensures the game’s implementation aligns with its mathematical design and that all awards are paid as advertised in the game rules. Additionally, testing verifies that platform-level functionality, like game-level accounting meters, game recall, and interruption recovery, work correctly for each game.

Summary

Certification testing by independent labs like GLI is the backbone of a solid and trustworthy casino gaming industry. At GLI, we leave nothing to chance. Our team of testing and compliance professionals are committed to delivering world-class solutions that help our clients navigate the complex global gaming landscape with confidence and integrity. Through rigorous platform and game testing, GLI ensures that EGMs meet stringent standards for randomness, payouts, security, and reliability across diverse jurisdictions. By validating hardware, software, and game-specific features like RTP and award odds, certification builds confidence among regulators, operators, and players, enabling a thriving global gaming market. As casino technology evolves, rigorous testing remains essential to uphold transparency and player trust—ensuring every spin is a unique chance to win.

To learn more about how GLI can help your gaming innovations meet industry standards, contact your GLI representative today.