Do Strategy Games Use RNGs to Determine Outcomes?

An RNG is a Random Number Generator. The acronym – RNG – describes an algorithm that produces a range of arbitrary numbers. In other words, it randomizes potential outcomes.

However, the RNG is predicated on a program—a construct of human ingenuity. For this reason, two types of random number generators exist: True Random Number Generators (TRNGs) and pseudo-random number generators (PRNGs).

These hardware and algorithmic systems are designed to imitate chance in its raw, unfiltered state. It’s important to emphasize that fact. They are used in many disciplines and industries, notably cryptography, engineering, gaming, simulations, and statistical sampling.

PRNGs and TRNGs

With pseudo-random number generators, a.k.a. PRNGs, the gaming developer selects the initial seed value, and an algorithm is used to generate a wide range of numbers that are statistically considered random. By contrast, true random number generators, a.k.a. TRNGs, utilize quantum effects and physical phenomena to create genuinely random number samples. In fairness, TRNGs are a rarity. Most random number generators used today are within the pseudo-random number generator camp.

We refer to them simply as RNGs. Their purpose in gaming is to create scenarios, outcomes, problems, challenges, options, possibilities, situations, and environments that may occur in a gaming world, given the rules of play, the game world constructs, and opportunities that may result.

New strategy games can use RNGs to determine outcomes based on players’ actions and game constructs in each situation. There are essentially three ways to generate random numbers with RNGs: computational methods, hardware methods, and a combination (hybrid mix).

A pseudo-random number generator (PRNG) should feature a lengthy period before any number sequences are repeated. The degree of randomness in any RNG is a factor to consider. Table and video games routinely use RNGs for chance-based elements in gaming worlds. The objective is a realistic gaming experience that avoids the predictability of an all-too-familiar gaming world.

Different Types of RNGs and Value-Added Benefits

RNGs add value through many channels in strategy, chance-based, and hybrid games, notably game movements, draws, hits, resource drops, etc. While surface-level similarities exist between pseudo and true random number generators, they differ. A PRNG utilizes deterministic algorithms to generate long sequences of numbers masquerading as random.

They focus less on security and more on the degree of randomness. By contrast, a TRNG creates truly random outcomes as a result of innately unpredictable physical processes.

These extremely high-security applications are used to create initialization vectors, cryptographic keys, or random nonces.

RNGs are the backbone of unpredictability in strategy games, blending chance with skill to create dynamic and immersive experiences. Whether it’s determining hit probabilities in tactical games or influencing resource drops, RNGs add depth and replayability. RNGs are becoming much more sophisticated as technology advances, ensuring fair and engaging gameplay.

These systems continue to evolve in modern strategy games, shaping the future of gaming with endless possibilities for exploration. Thanks to RNGs in strategy games, a world of endless opportunities abounds.