Technical licensing requirements for slot games
The iGaming market is strictly regulated, and slot games – as one of the most popular forms – must meet specific technical requirements before they can be used commercially. No matter if the game operates under a UK, Malta, or Curacao license, operators and game studios must follow the rules set by iGaming authorities. In this article, we discuss the technical elements that often decide whether a slot game can be approved for real-money play.
Security – Randomness – Fairness
The base of every slot game is the random number generator, also called RNG. This system creates unpredictable results and must be tested and certified by independent laboratories such as eCOGRA or iTech Labs. Only then can regulators be sure that the game is fair and does not favor the operator or the player. Another important part is the RTP (Return to Player) value. This number shows how much money the game returns to players over time. Many regions have minimum RTP levels – for example, 85% in some US states or 94% in Malta. The RTP must be clearly documented and, in many cases, shared publicly.
Math engine and game logic transparency
Behind every slot game, there is a so-called math engine. This engine controls how winnings are calculated, how bonus features work, how jackpots are triggered, and the game’s volatility. Licensing authorities require full documentation of the game’s math, which must be available for audit. Any confusion in this area can lead to the rejection of a certification request.
Regulators also focus on the software’s integrity. This means the game code must be protected from unauthorized changes, and there should be hash functions like SHA-256 to confirm that the code has not been altered. Games also need to keep logs of every session – this is called soft metering – to help in analyzing gameplay and solving possible disputes.
Game testing and quality assurance
Before a slot game is released, it must go through strict quality testing. This includes not only system and functional tests but also checking if the game meets licensing rules. Depending on the game engine and platform, tools like PlayPatrol can be used. PlayPatrol uses AI and trained behavior models to test the game for both player behavior and technical licensing requirements in specific GEOs.
Below is a list of technical requirements that can be tested automatically:
- autoplay not allowed,
- display maximum prize information,
- fast play not allowed,
- infinite play not allowed,
- maximum bet limit verification,
- minimum spin time verification,
- RTP displayed,
- player protection and AML compliance.
Regulators are placing more focus on responsible gambling. That means every slot game must include tools for player self-exclusion, setting deposit and session time limits, and reminders about how long the player has been active. Age and identity verification are also required and must be accurate and secure.
In addition, any payment system connected to the game must follow anti-money laundering (AML) rules. This includes tracking transactions, storing data according to privacy laws, and making sure financial operations are fully transparent.
