Every online casino game relies on a powerful technology that works behind the scenes. Players see the game animations, interface, outcomes but what they don’t see is the backend system that hosts and manages online casino games.
This backend system is called Remote Gaming Server (RGS).
In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about what an RGS does, how it processes games, and why it’s considered the backbone of modern online casino gaming. If you are a casino operator, entrepreneur, product managers, and anyone who is evaluating this technology, this blog is just for you!
What Is an RGS (Remote Gaming Server)?
A Remote Gaming Server is the backend platform that’s responsible for hosting and managing games, managing game logic, transaction processing, player authentication, managing mathematical models and delivering casino games to online casino websites and mobile apps.
You can think of RGS as a powerful engine behind every game round. While your players play the game frontend, the RGS handles all the work in the backend that determines the actual game result. RGS is responsible for:
- Managing player sessions
- Running game logic
- Calculating wins and payouts
- Generating outcomes via certified Random Number Generators (RNGs)
- Logging gameplay and transaction data
- Sending results back to the casino platform
What is the Difference Between Owning and Licensing an RGS
Game studios can choose between owning an RGS or licensing a turnkey solution from a 3rd party provider.
Some game studios build their own RGS which offers them complete control over the development process. This is an ideal approach for large game studios who also have the ability to manage the infrastructure in-house. Building your own RGS requires significant investment and can be an expensive choice.
Choosing a turnkey solution has been a popular choice as it lowers cost and also minimizes operational complexity. Turnkey RGS platforms can seamlessly host games from various studios and casino operators can access hundreds and thousands of game titles via single integration. This approach is more popular among gaming studios as it also offers faster time to market.
How Remote Gaming Server Works
An RGS doesnt work on its own. It connects with various other systems that help run the online casino solution smoothly.
Below is a complete breakdown of the player’s journey. From launching a game to seeing a result, let’s find out what RGS is responsible for at each stage.
Game Request and Session Initiation
When a player clicks on the play button, the casino platform sends a secure API request to the RGS containing critical details that include player ID, language, currency, authentication token, operator ID, device information, etc. Only after all the information is verified by RGS, the game initiates.
RNG and Game Logic Processing
Once the bet is placed by the player, the game makes use of Random Number Generator (RNG) to determine the outcome that’s independent of previous rounds or player’s actions. This process takes players almost instantly, without any delay.
The game engine now converts this random value into the actual outcome of the game. This could be a dice result, a roulette number, a slot symbol and so on.
RTP Calculation and Game Math
It’s a common misconception that RGS decides whether a player will win or lose. But, that’s not how RGS works.
Every casino game is built using a mathematical model that determines the volatility of the game, Return to Player (RTP) percentage, how often the bonus features will appear, etc.
The RGS simply follows these pre-defined rules and cannot interfere with outcomes or the odds. Random Number Generator (RNG) and the game’s mathematical model ensure the fairness, consistency and unbiasness of the game.
Result Delivery to the Casino Platform
Once a game outcome is generated, the RGS sends all the necessary information to the casino platform. The casino website then displays the result through animation such as spinning reels, revealing cards, etc.
Transaction and Reporting Data Flow
Every action taken by the player automatically gets recorded. These actions can include wins, losses, bonuses received, session duration, etc. This data is then also shared with various casino systems such as PAM, wallet, reporting tools and more. Operators can make use of this data to monitor player activity, detect suspicious behavior, track fraud, track revenue and more.
Since all the systems work together in real-time, an online casino can seamlessly support thousands of concurrent players.
What are the Key Components of an Remote Gaming Server (RGS)
The key components of an RGS include:
Game Engine
The game engine is responsible for controlling game rules, bonus features, jackpot logic, symbol mechanics, calculating payouts, and more. Though games may share the RGS, they run independently.
RNG
Fairness is one of the top-most priorities for any online casino game. A certified RNG ensures the game remains fair and unbiased for players.
API/Integration Layer
The API layer acts as a bridge between RGS and other systems that are used by casinos. These include PAM, CRM, bonus tools, payment systems and more.
Reporting and Analytics Dashboard
Reporting and analytics dashboards allow casino operators to get clear insights on platform performance. Reporting and analytics offer critical information on player activity, betting trends, player activity, win rates, and more.
Who Provides and Maintains an RGS?
An RGS is developed and maintained by specialized gaming companies that host games securely, maintain uptime, update gaming content, manage integrations and more.
For casino operators, choice of RGS provider can significantly impact game’s availability, security, scalability and user experience.
Why Understanding RGS Matters for Casino Operators
Understanding how RGS works can help casino operators make informed business decisions. Some key benefits include:
- Choosing an RGS that works well with their existing online casino platform
- Solving technical issues more quickly and effectively
- Selecting a platform that can seamlessly handle more players
- Meeting licensing and regulatory requirements seamlessly
- Using game and player data to make informed decisions and improve overall business performance.
- Understanding how games deliver fair and random results
Key Takeaways
An RGS does much more than simply hosting the games. It handles everything beyond the scenes, from generating random results with the help of RNG and mathematical models to updating player balances, an RGS allows an online casino platform to run games smoothly and fairly.
For online casino operators, choosing the right RGS is a critical business decision. A reliable RGS helps deliver better player experiences, keep outcomes fair, and also supports business growth
GammaStack: Your Trusted Remote Gaming Server Provider
If you are planning to expand your online casino, choosing the right Remote Gaming Server (RGS) provider is a critical business decision. GammaStack is one of the known RGS solution providers that helps operators deliver fair, secure, and seamless user experience. Our platform offers certified RNG-based gameplay, game integrations, complete flexibility along with scalability and more. Equipped with 14+ years of experience and teams of expert developers, our teams offer you comprehensive guidance before getting started. Want to know more? Get in touch today!
Frequently Asked Questions
What does RGS stand for in online casinos?
RGS stands for remote gaming server which is a backend system responsible for processing player actions, outcomes, etc.
How does an RGS ensure fair outcomes?
An RGS makes use of Random Number Generator (RNG) along with mathematical models to ensure fair and unbiased outcomes.
How does an RGS connect to a casino website?
RGS connects with casino platforms with the help of secure APIs. When a player starts playing the game, the casino sends a request to RGS along with all the critical information. RGS processes the game, outcomes, and sends the result back to the casino platform.
Can one RGS support multiple casino operators?
Yes, an RGS can seamlessly support multiple operators. It’s designed to keep operator’s data separate, allowing them to offer various games from one single shared infrastructure.