In modern gaming, RNG technology and randomized rewards have become more prevalent. They are often used together to introduce an unpredictable surprise element to the gaming experience.
The increased use of RNG and randomized rewards is not universally popular. For example, the authorities in Belgium and the Netherlands believe that loot boxes are a gateway into gambling and want to introduce legislation to ban their use.
What are RNG technology and randomized rewards?
Knowing more about these features of modern gaming helps us understand why they are used and what is behind the diversity of opinions about them.
Random Number Generator (RNG) mechanics consist of a computational algorithm that generates a sequence of numbers that does not have a pattern and is not predictable. The technology adds an element of surprise to certain aspects of the game, such as enemy encounters, damage received from these encounters, and loot drops.
Randomized rewards, also known as random reward mechanisms (RRMs), work with RNG mechanics to make games less predictable. Common RRMs include gacha mechanics, inspired by Japanese capsule toy vending machines. All RRMs provide rewards like loot boxes, rare item drops, and bonus content. The player does not know what reward they will receive as the rewards are random.
Why are these technologies used in gaming?
Both RNG and RRM technologies create surprise and increase excitement levels. This is believed to tie into the principle of variable reinforcement. In real terms, this means that players are more likely to engage with games regularly and become loyal to a particular game. It’s clear that this is a positive outcome for game developers and studios.
However, some experts believe that using RNG and RRM technology is less beneficial for players, given that it encourages them to spend more time playing and can increase the likelihood of them spending money to gain rewards they seek, such as rare items.
Controversy surrounding the use of RNG and randomized rewards
We have already touched on the most apparent controversy surrounding RNG mechanics and randomized rewards. As we mentioned in our introduction, Belgium and the Netherlands are considering ways to ban the use of loot boxes, due to their potential link to gambling addiction, although this has not been proven. The UK government is also considering restricting children from accessing loot boxes.
In the gambling sector, authorities globally are becoming more reluctant to open new markets, as can be seen from the recent failure to approve an online casino bill in Maryland. Authorities also regulate operators and impose licensing restrictions that ensure the presence of responsible gambling measures that protect players. Their concerns, many of which surround the potential dangers of gambling addiction, are similar to those of authorities aiming to restrict the use of randomized rewards in gaming.
Some gamers are also opposed to RNG mechanics. They believe that the random gameplay that results does not reward a player’s skills. Instead, it makes it easier for less experienced players to succeed. This argument suggests that gameplay is similar to gambling, which is based on luck rather than skill. The counterargument is that using RNG mechanics makes skill more critical as players must prevail even if they do not have any luck during gameplay.
The debate about whether RNG mechanics and randomized rewards encourage a certain level of gambling, and potentially addiction, will continue. Much of what happens in the future will depend on how authorities choose to regulate the use of these technologies as they do for the gambling sector.