James Illingworth from GLI opens up about the testing process and how to stay compliant at the cutting edge of innovation.
While casino gaming technology grows ever-more complex, keeping compliant with regional legislation, guidelines and regulations becomes more convoluted.
InterGaming sat down with James Illingworth, vice president, sales EMEA for Gaming Laboratories International (GLI) to see how developers, suppliers and operators alike can stay ahead of the curve when it comes to testing and compliance.
At what stage of development should a manufacturer initially engage with a testing laboratory?
GLI can support manufacturers at any stage of development, but engaging early offers the greatest value. By involving GLI during the development process, manufacturers can identify regulatory questions, technical requirements and jurisdiction-specific considerations before the product is complete. This can help save time, reduce costly rework and create a smoother path to certification.
GLI’s Pre-Compliance services are designed to support manufacturers during these early stages. They help ensure that a product is being developed in line with applicable technical and regulatory requirements from the outset, giving suppliers and operators greater confidence before formal submission.
How has the role of testing labs evolved as casino technology has become more sophisticated?
As technologies have evolved, we have refined our testing procedures to ensure we can continue delivering the most complete testing results of the highest quality; however, the lab’s role at its essence has not changed. Our job is to be ahead of technology, understand it better than anyone, and then work with regulators, suppliers and operators to help them safely embrace new technologies that will benefit their jurisdictions in alignment with regulations.
How has the role of testing labs evolved as casino technology has become more sophisticated?
As technologies have evolved, we have refined our testing procedures to ensure we can continue delivering the most complete testing results of the highest quality; however, the lab’s role at its essence has not changed. Our job is to be ahead of technology, understand it better than anyone, and then work with regulators, suppliers and operators to help them safely embrace new technologies that will benefit their jurisdictions in alignment with regulations.
What does the typical certification journey for a new land-based casino game look like from submission to approval?
The certification journey for a new land-based casino game is an important step in bringing a product to market. We understand the time, effort and reroud to support clients through this process
Once a product is ready for submission, our goal is to make the process as clear, smooth and efficient as possible. We begin by confirming the project scope, checking that all required materials and documentation have been provided and agreeing on a target completion date so expectations are clear from the start.
During testing, our team stays in regular communication with the client. We provide progress updates, answer questions and discuss any issues that may need to be addressed. Once testing is complete and the game has been confirmed to meet the relevant technical and regulatory requirements, GLI finalises the certification reports and delivers them to both the regulator and the supplier.
What does testing a random number generator actually involve, and what misconceptions do people often have about RNG certification?
RNG testing typically involves three components:lete and successful analysis of an RNG takes the results of each component and categorises the RNG as suitable for its intended usage
The source code <a href="https://comicvibe.com/steam-frame-review-valve-shows-us-vr-was-always-meant-to-be-a-toy/” title=”Steam Frame Review: Valve Shows Us VR Was Always Meant to Be a Toy”>review is considered to be a theoretical evaluation of the mathematical logic used in generating randoms. The data analysis is an empirical study where output from the RNG is gathered and tested statistically. Various hypothesis tests are used to assess the distribution and independence of the RNG output. Finally, the artifacts for which the testing was applied to, such as source code and compiled binaries, are identified using checksums or digital signatures. This allows our laboratory to memorialise the test results with items that can be audited in the field.
One common misconception about RNGs is that once something is deemed to be random, it is suitable for any purpose where a random number is needed. This is not true. There exist RNGs that are perfectly suitable for setting the reel strips on a five-reel slot game in a secure and unpredictable manner, but you would not use these same RNGs to encode war plans, for example. This can also be true for different types of casino games. GLI RNG testing evaluates the RNG for its intended usage in the gaming industry.
GLI has a team of mathematical and RNG experts across the globe and, as with all potential submissions, wishes to engage at an early stage in the process to ensure a streamlined engagement.
Which jurisdictions have the most demanding technical standards for land-based casino games?
Technical standards vary by jurisdiction, as each market sets requirements based on its own regulatory priorities, player-protection objectives and market needs. GLI-11 is widely recognised as a strong foundation for land-based gaming compliance, but some jurisdictions build on this by adding further technical or operational requirements.
What cybersecurity risks have become increasingly important in modern electronic gaming machines?
Every expansion of a digital footprint increases cyber risk, so we work with suppliers, regulators and operators to help them proactively stay ahead of risk and to continually shore up their defences. This collaborative approach helps strengthen the resilience of gaming systems and better protect critical operations from emerging cyber threats.
As gaming environments become more interconnected through SaaS solutions and networked products, organisations also face growing exposure to third-party vulnerabilities and increasingly complex security validation requirements.
What advice would you give developers to avoid common certification delays?
The best way to avoid certification delays is to engage with the certification process early and maintain open, timely communication throughout the project. Ensuring that all required submission materials and supporting documentation are provided at the outset helps prevent unnecessary back-and-forth and allows testing to begin without interruption.
Another key factor is responding promptly to questions that may arise during testing. Quick clarification of technical, regulatory or documentation-related items enables the project to continue moving forward efficiently. By submitting complete information and maintaining clear communication, suppliers can help ensure a smooth certification process and achieve faster time to market.
What trends do you think will have the biggest impact on gaming certification over the next five to 10 years?
One of the most significant trends over the next five to 10 years will be the continued adoption of artificial intelligence throughout the gaming industry. As AI becomes more integrated into game development, operations and player-facing experiences, regulators and testing laboratories will need to evaluate how these technologies are governed, monitored and controlled to ensure fairness, transparency and compliance.
At the same time, land-based gaming technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace. As systems become more interconnected and feature-rich, regulatory frameworks will likely adapt as well, expanding the scope of what needs to be tested, certified and maintained under change control. The industry will continue to balance innovation with regulatory oversight, making certification an increasingly important part of bringing new technologies to market.
