How does the Gambling Commission ensure that the percentage of winnings returned to players by gaming machines is fair?
The operator making gaming machines available for use, as well
as the gaming machine suppliers and manufacturers,
must be licensed by the Gambling Commission, or hold a permit issued by a
local licensing authority.
Manufacturers and suppliers must ensure that gaming machines
comply with our
technical standards, at the point at which they are
sold, which ensure that:
- a game outcome is random* for category B1 and B2 gaming
machines (category B3,
B4, C and D gaming machines can be compensated* or
random)
- the payout percentage or odds displayed accurately reflect that
for a given machine configuration
Operators making gaming machines available for use, and
suppliers, must ensure that:
- all display notice requirements are complied with
- the payout percentage or odds displayed are correct for a given
configuration (that is, do not reflect a value greater than can be
achieved).
Category B1, B2, and
B3 gaming machines must be tested and approved by independent
test houses to ensure they comply with the technical standards
in full. Category B4, C,
and D gaming machines can be tested via an independent laboratory
or via the manufacturers own processes under strict controls.
Licensed machine suppliers and manufacturers are audited to
ensure they have sufficient policies, procedures, and internal
controls in place to comply with our technical standards, whether
for new or upgraded games.
* For an explanation of the terms 'random' and
'compensated' please see:
How much should a gaming machine (also known as a fruit machine or
slot machine, pay out in winnings?
If you have experienced a problem with a gaming machine (fruit
machine, slot machine) you have played, please see: How do I complain about a gambling transaction
(disputes)?
Page last reviewed: July 2011