The RNG and free spins

Thanks for your columns. I have learned a lot through them.

One question on RNGs and bonuses. If the outcome is determined at the microsecond one hits the button, I have a question about bonuses. I often wonder during a bonus whether I should let the machine count up the individual free spins on its own, or whether I can speed up the process without affecting the outcome. In other words, am I changing the outcome of the entire bonus and the succeeding free spins if I press "take win" on an individual free spin? Is the RNG active once the bonus begins?

Thanks for your good information. It's made me a more knowledgeable, less gullible gambler.

Barb

Dear Barb,

Thanks for the kind words about my columns.

The RNG is constantly running. At the start of a free spin, the program polls the RNG to determine the results of that spin. Pressing "Take Win" on an individual spin does not change the results of that spin. It could change the result of a future spin, though, because the spin will start at a different point in time and the RNG will have a different value.

Best of luck in and out of the casinos,
John

Send your slot and video poker questions to John Robison, Slot Expert, at slotexpert@comcast.net. Because of the volume of mail I receive, I regret that I can't reply to every question.