What is provably fair?

Understand provably fair systems in online casinos: how they ensure transparent and verifiable game outcomes using cryptography. Let's see their benefits and limitations.

Provably fair systems have become a cornerstone of trust in online casinos, particularly those using cryptocurrencies. This article explains what provably fair means, how it works, its benefits, and its limitations, presented in a neutral and informative tone for a broad audience.

What is Provably Fair?

Provably fair is a cryptographic system used in online casinos to ensure that game outcomes are transparent, random, and verifiable by players. Unlike traditional casinos, where players rely on the operator’s word for fairness, provably fair systems allow players to independently verify that games are not manipulated.

The system is most commonly associated with cryptocurrency-based casinos but is increasingly adopted in other platforms. It typically applies to games like slots, dice, roulette, and card games, where randomness is critical.

How Provably Fair Works

Provably fair systems rely on cryptographic algorithms, primarily hashing and random number generation. Here’s a simplified explanation of the process:

1. Seed Generation:

   • The casino generates a server seed (a random string of data).

   • The player provides a client seed (another random string, often customizable).

   • These seeds are combined to create a unique input for the game.

2. Hashing:

   • Before the game starts, the server seed is hashed (converted into a fixed-length string using a cryptographic function like SHA-256).

   • The hashed seed is shared with the player, ensuring the casino cannot change it later.

3. Game Outcome:

   • The combined seeds determine the game’s random outcome (e.g., a dice roll or card draw).

   • The outcome is generated using a deterministic algorithm, meaning the same seeds always produce the same result.

4. Verification:

   • After the game, the casino reveals the original server seed.

   • Players can use the server seed, client seed, and hashing algorithm to verify that the outcome was fair and unaltered.

This process ensures transparency, as players can independently check the integrity of the game.

Check out our guides for 2 of our provably fair casinos Fairspin and BC.GAME.

Benefits of Provably Fair Systems

• Transparency: Players can verify game outcomes, reducing reliance on the casino’s trustworthiness.

• Trust: Cryptographic proof fosters confidence, especially in decentralized or crypto-based platforms.

• Player Empowerment: Verification tools allow players to confirm fairness without technical expertise.

• Immutability: Once seeds are set, the casino cannot manipulate outcomes without detection.

Limitations of Provably Fair Systems

• Technical Understanding: While user-friendly tools exist, verifying outcomes may still require some technical knowledge.

• Limited Applicability: Provably fair is mainly used in crypto casinos and may not be available for all games (e.g., live dealer games).

• Casino Cooperation: Verification depends on the casino providing the correct server seed post-game.

• Complexity for Casual Players: Some players may find the process too cumbersome or may not bother verifying outcomes.

How to Verify Provably Fair Games

To verify a game’s fairness, follow these steps:

1. Obtain the Seeds: Collect the hashed server seed (before the game) and the client seed used.

2. Play the Game: Note the game outcome.

3. Get the Server Seed: After the game, the casino should provide the original server seed.

4. Use a Verification Tool: Input the server seed, client seed, and outcome into a provably fair verification tool (often provided by the casino or third parties).

5. Check the Result: The tool confirms whether the outcome matches the seeds, ensuring no tampering occurred.

Many casinos offer built-in verification tools, while third-party websites provide independent checkers for added trust.

Why Provably Fair Matters

Provably fair systems address a key concern in online gambling: trust. By allowing players to verify randomness, these systems reduce the risk of manipulation and enhance player confidence. They are particularly valuable in crypto casinos, where decentralization and transparency are core principles. However, players should still choose reputable casinos, as provably fair systems rely on honest seed disclosure.

Summary

Provably fair systems use cryptography to ensure transparent and verifiable game outcomes in online casinos. By combining server and client seeds, players can independently confirm that games are random and fair. While the system offers significant benefits like transparency and trust, it has limitations, including technical complexity and reliance on casino cooperation. Understanding and using provably fair systems empowers players to engage with online casinos confidently, particularly in crypto-based platforms. Always verify the casino’s reputation and tools before playing.