The virtual reel works by using a combination of physical reels and random number generators (RNG) to determine the outcome of each spin. While players see the animated reels spinning on the screen, the actual result is determined by the RNG, which selects a position from a larger set of symbols that may not correspond directly to the visible reels. This allows game developers to offer higher payout potential and create more engaging gameplay.
Virtual Reel Example
For example, in a slot machine with five visible reels but a virtual reel that has ten different symbols, the game can show a winning combination on the screen while the actual odds of hitting that combination are calculated based on the broader set of virtual symbols.