Understanding the Core Mechanics of the Crash Game
Before placing any bets with real money, every player should develop a thorough understanding of the underlying mechanics that power each round. At its heart, the game presents a virtual plane that ascends from the runway while a multiplier increases in real time. Your sole objective is to press the cash out button before the flight ends abruptly. If you succeed, your initial wager is multiplied by the displayed value. If the plane disappears before you act, your bet is lost entirely.
How the Multiplier Works
The multiplier begins at 1.00x the moment the round starts and escalates progressively as the plane gains altitude. There is no fixed ceiling — some rounds produce values as high as 100x or even beyond — but the crash can also occur almost immediately at values below 1.10x. This unpredictable nature is what creates the intense gambling excitement that attracts millions of players across the globe.
Random Number Generation and Fairness
Each round outcome is determined by a certified random number generation algorithm. This means that no external factor, historical pattern, or aviator game prediction strategies tool can reliably forecast when the crash will happen. Our platform uses provably fair technology, allowing players to independently verify the integrity of every single round after it concludes. This transparency is central to our commitment as an official, licensed resource.
The Two-Bet System
One of the most distinctive features of this crash game is the ability to place two simultaneous bets in each round. Players can set different amounts and cash out at different multipliers, creating a layered approach. For example, you might withdraw one bet at a conservative 1.30x while letting the second ride for a potentially high payout. This dual-bet mechanics system gives you greater flexibility and control over your risk exposure.
Verified Rules Every Player Must Know
Placing Your Wager and the Cash Out Decision
Before each round begins, you have a brief window to confirm your bet amount. Once the flight starts, no additional bets can be placed until the next round. This time-sensitive structure demands that you prepare your wager in advance and remain focused throughout each session. Pressing the cash out button is the single most important action in every round. The longer you wait, the higher your potential reward — but also the greater the risk. If the plane crashes before you act, you lose your entire bet for that round. Seasoned players develop intuition over time, but it is essential to remember that each round is entirely independent of previous results.
Understanding RTP and Volatility
Our game offers a return to player rate of approximately 97%, which is significantly higher than most traditional casino games. Volatility in this context refers to the distribution of outcomes: you may experience multiple low-multiplier rounds followed by a sudden spike, or vice versa. Understanding these parameters helps you plan your bankroll and set realistic expectations for each playing session.
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Started
We have designed our platform to make the onboarding process as seamless as possible. Whether you are accessing the game from a desktop computer or a mobile device, the steps below will guide you from registration to your first flight.
Creating Your Account
- Visit our official website and click the registration button
- Enter your email address and create a secure password
- Verify your email through the confirmation link we send
- Complete your profile with basic personal information
- Enable two-factor authentication for enhanced account security
- Accept the terms of service and responsible gambling policy
Making Your First Deposit and Navigating the Interface
After your account is set up, navigate to the cashier section to fund your balance. We support a wide range of payment methods tailored to Indian players, including UPI, Paytm, bank transfers, international cards, and popular cryptocurrencies. The minimum deposit amount depends on your chosen method, but most options start from as low as 100 INR. Once your account is funded, locate the game in our lobby and click to launch. The interface displays the flight animation in the center, your bet controls at the bottom, and a live statistics panel on the side showing recent rounds, multipliers, and other players' cash out points. Every element is designed for quick interaction so you can react in time before each round concludes.
Advanced Bankroll Management Techniques
Effective money management is arguably the most important factor that separates successful players from those who deplete their funds rapidly. No matter how thrilling the flight becomes, discipline in managing your bets determines your long-term sustainability in the game.
The Fixed Percentage Method
This approach involves wagering a consistent percentage of your total bankroll on each round — typically between 1% and 3%. By keeping your bets proportional to your remaining balance, you protect yourself from catastrophic losses during unlucky streaks while still participating in every round with meaningful stakes.
Session Budgeting and Stop-Loss Limits
Before you begin playing, decide on a fixed amount that you are willing to spend during that particular session. Once that budget is exhausted, stop immediately regardless of how the rounds are going. This prevents the common trap of chasing losses, which is one of the fastest ways to drain your gambling funds. Set a clear profit target — for example, 50% above your starting balance — and a stop-loss limit, such as 30% below your starting balance. When either threshold is reached, end your session. This structured approach removes emotion from the equation and ensures that you walk away with gains or limit your losses to an acceptable amount.
Popular Betting Approaches Explained
Conservative Low-Multiplier Cashouts
Many experienced players prefer to cash out consistently at low multipliers between 1.20x and 1.50x. While each individual win is modest, the frequency of successful rounds at these levels is statistically higher. Over a large number of rounds, this approach can yield steady returns, although it requires patience and discipline to avoid the temptation of holding for bigger payouts.
The Martingale System
The Martingale system involves doubling your bet after every loss, then returning to your base amount after a win. In theory, a single win recovers all previous losses plus a small profit. However, this method requires a substantial bankroll to withstand extended losing streaks, and table limits may cap your ability to continue doubling. Use this approach with extreme caution.
The Anti-Martingale Approach
This is the reverse of the Martingale: you increase your bet after a win and decrease it after a loss. The logic is to capitalize on winning streaks while minimizing exposure during downturns. Many players find this approach psychologically more comfortable, as it aligns bet size with recent success rather than chasing losses.
Mixed Method with Dual Bets
By leveraging the two-bet feature, you can combine a conservative bet with an aggressive one in each round. Place a larger wager on the first bet and cash out at a low multiplier for consistent returns. Meanwhile, place a smaller wager on the second bet and let it ride for high multipliers. This balanced method is considered one of the best strategies for aviator game india because it maintains a safety net while preserving upside potential.
| Approach | Risk Level | Recommended Bankroll | Average Cashout Target | Suitable For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Low-Multiplier | Low | Moderate | 1.20x – 1.50x | Beginners and cautious players |
| Martingale | High | Large | 1.50x – 2.00x | Experienced players with deep funds |
| Anti-Martingale | Medium | Moderate | 1.50x – 3.00x | Players who follow streaks |
| Mixed Dual Bets | Medium | Moderate to Large | 1.30x + 5.00x+ | Strategic players seeking balance |
| Flat Betting | Low | Small to Moderate | 1.50x – 2.00x | Disciplined long-session players |
| Session-Based | Variable | Fixed per session | Varies | Players who set strict time limits |
| Percentage-Based | Low to Medium | Any | 1.30x – 2.50x | All skill levels |
Game Features and Automation Tools
Our official platform includes a suite of features designed to enhance your playing experience and give you greater control over each session. These tools are built directly into the interface and require no additional downloads or plugins.
Autoplay and Auto Cashout Settings
The autoplay feature allows you to set a fixed bet amount that is automatically placed at the start of each new round. This is especially useful during long sessions when you want to maintain consistent participation without manually entering your wager every time. You retain full control and can disable autoplay at any moment. With auto cashout, you define a target multiplier in advance, and the system automatically withdraws your funds when that level is reached during the flight. This removes the pressure of split-second manual decisions and helps you stick to your predetermined approach without being swayed by the adrenaline of a climbing multiplier.
Live Chat and Social Features
Our built-in chat allows real-time communication among players during rounds. You can see when others cash out, share experiences, and discuss results. While other players' decisions should not dictate your own actions, the social element adds a communal dimension to the gambling experience that many find enjoyable and engaging.
Round History and Statistics Panel
The statistics panel displays results from previous rounds, including the final multiplier at which each flight ended. Analyzing this data can help you observe the distribution of outcomes over time, though it is crucial to remember that past results have no influence on future rounds due to the random number generation system.
Playing with Real Money and Bonus Programs
Transitioning from demo mode to real money gameplay represents a significant psychological shift. The stakes become tangible, emotions intensify, and every decision carries genuine financial weight. Here is what you should know before making that leap.
Emotional Management During Real Rounds
The most common mistake among new real-money players is allowing emotions to override rational decision-making. When you see the multiplier climbing past 5x, 10x, or even 20x, the temptation to hold on becomes almost irresistible. Successful players develop the discipline to follow their predetermined plan regardless of what the screen shows. Remember that each round is independent, and the plane can crash at any moment.
Responsible Gambling Practices and Withdrawals
On our official site, we are deeply committed to promoting responsible gambling. We provide tools to set daily, weekly, and monthly deposit limits. You can also configure loss limits and session time reminders. If you ever feel that your gaming habits are becoming problematic, our support team can assist you with self-exclusion options and direct you to professional help resources. When you are ready to withdraw your winnings, navigate to the cashier section and select your preferred payment method. Processing times vary: e-wallets and cryptocurrency withdrawals are typically the fastest, while bank transfers may take several business days. Identity verification is required before your first withdrawal — this is a standard security measure that protects both you and our platform.
200% Welcome Bonus
New players who register on our official site and make their first deposit receive a generous 200% welcome bonus. This means that if you deposit 1,000 INR, you will have 3,000 INR to play with. The bonus is subject to wagering requirements, which are clearly outlined in our terms and conditions. Make sure to review these before claiming any promotional offer.
Weekly Cashback Rewards and Promo Codes
We return a percentage of net losses to your account on a weekly basis. The cashback rate depends on your loyalty tier and can reach up to 25% for our most active players. This safety net ensures that even during challenging weeks, you recover a portion of your funds and can continue enjoying the game. Throughout the year, we also publish exclusive promo codes through our newsletter, social media channels, and partner platforms. These codes can unlock free bets, enhanced cashback rates, or deposit match bonuses. Stay subscribed to our updates so you never miss an opportunity to boost your balance.
- Check your email weekly for exclusive promo code alerts
- Follow our official social media accounts for flash promotions
- Participate in seasonal tournaments for additional prize pools
- Refer friends to earn referral bonus credits
- Climb the loyalty program tiers for increasingly valuable rewards
Mobile Gaming Experience
Our platform is fully optimized for mobile devices, ensuring that you can enjoy smooth, responsive gameplay on your smartphone or tablet. Whether you prefer using a dedicated application or accessing the game through your mobile browser, the experience is designed to match the quality of desktop play.
Dedicated App for Android and iOS
For those who want the most streamlined experience, we recommend downloading the dedicated Aviator App from our official website. The application is lightweight, secure, and provides instant access to all game features including autoplay, auto cashout, live chat, and complete round history. If you are curious about installation steps and device requirements, our detailed guide covers everything you need to know about the Aviator App and how it enhances your mobile sessions.
Browser-Based Mobile Play and Performance
If you prefer not to install an application, our website is fully responsive and adapts seamlessly to any screen size. Simply open your mobile browser, navigate to our site, and log into your account. The gameplay experience is virtually identical to the app version, with the same features, speed, and security protocols in place. The game is optimized to consume minimal data — approximately 80 to 120 MB per hour of active play. Even on moderate mobile connections, the real-time multiplier updates and flight animations run smoothly. We recommend a stable internet connection to ensure that your cash out commands are processed without delay.
Exploring the Aviator Ecosystem on Our Site
Our website is more than just a single game page. We have built a comprehensive ecosystem of resources to help players at every level improve their understanding and enjoyment. Whether you are researching the fundamentals or exploring platform-specific options, our network of dedicated pages provides targeted information.
For a broad understanding of how the crash game works, its history, and why it has become a global phenomenon, we invite you to visit our main resource page about the aviator game where we cover everything from the original Spribe development to the differences between offshore and regulated platforms. That page serves as the foundation for all the specialized content across our site.
Players who are interested in a specific operator experience should explore our dedicated review of the 1win Aviator Game platform. That page provides a detailed breakdown of the bonus structure, deposit methods, and unique features available to players who choose this particular casino for their sessions.
Similarly, if you are considering one of the largest international betting platforms, our comprehensive guide to the 1xBet Aviator Game covers registration procedures, promotional offers, and performance comparisons that help you decide whether it meets your needs.
Indian players who value a visually polished interface and regular tournament events may find our analysis of the Pin Up Aviator Game particularly relevant. That page details the casino-specific bonuses, loyalty programs, and withdrawal options available on the Pin Up platform.
For those who want to practice without financial risk, our Aviator Demo page explains how the free play mode works, what limitations exist compared to real money gameplay, and how you can use demo sessions to develop and test your approaches before committing any funds.
Choosing the Right Platform — Legality and Safety
License Verification and Payment Methods
The most important factor when selecting a casino is the presence of a valid gambling license. Licensed platforms are subject to regulatory oversight, which means their software is tested for fairness, player funds are protected, and dispute resolution mechanisms exist. Always verify the license before creating an account. Indian players should ensure that their chosen platform supports convenient local payment methods such as UPI, Paytm, PhonePe, and Indian bank transfers. International options like Visa, Mastercard, Skrill, Neteller, and cryptocurrencies should also be available for maximum flexibility in managing your money.
Customer Support Quality
Reliable customer support is essential, especially when dealing with real money transactions. Look for platforms that offer 24/7 support through live chat, email, and phone. Quick response times and knowledgeable agents indicate a serious, player-focused operation.
- Verify the casino holds a recognized gambling license
- Confirm support for local Indian payment methods
- Test customer support responsiveness before depositing
- Read independent player reviews for unbiased opinions
- Check the withdrawal processing times and any associated fees
- Ensure the platform offers the original Spribe version of the game
Legal Status of Online Gambling in India
The legal landscape for online gambling in India varies by state. While there is no central federal law that explicitly prohibits online casino games, several states have their own regulations. Players should familiarize themselves with the laws applicable to their specific region before engaging in any real money gambling activity.
Our Security Infrastructure and Provably Fair Technology
We employ industry-standard SSL encryption to protect all data transmitted between your device and our servers. Your personal information, financial details, and gameplay data are safeguarded at every step. Our platform undergoes regular security audits conducted by independent third-party firms, ensuring that our systems remain impenetrable to unauthorized access. Every round on our platform uses provably fair technology, which allows you to independently verify the integrity of the outcome after the round concludes. The system generates a cryptographic hash before the round begins, and players can compare this hash against the result to confirm that no manipulation occurred. This level of transparency is what sets our official site apart from unverified alternatives.
Comparing Crash Games — How Aviator Stands Out
The crash game genre has expanded significantly in recent years, with numerous developers releasing their own variations. While the core mechanics remain similar across these titles, there are meaningful differences in features, visual quality, and player experience that distinguish each option.
| Game | Developer | Max Multiplier | Unique Feature | RTP |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aviator | Spribe | Up to x100+ | Two simultaneous bets, live chat | 97% |
| JetX | SmartSoft | Up to x1600 | Turbo mode, bonus rounds | 96.5% |
| Spaceman | Pragmatic Play | Up to x5000 | Partial bet withdrawal | 96.5% |
| Cash or Crash | Evolution | Up to x16000 | Multi-level strategic growth | 96.8% |
| Rocket X | 1Play | Up to x1500 | Colorful graphics, fast rounds | 96% |
| Aviatrix | Aviatrix | Up to x2000 | NFT integration, custom planes | 97% |
| Zeppelin | BetSolutions | Up to x1000 | Minimalist design, rapid pace | 96.3% |
As the table demonstrates, while competitors offer impressive maximum multipliers and unique bonus features, Aviator remains the most widely recognized and trusted title in the genre thanks to its original development by Spribe, proven fairness systems, and consistently high RTP.
| Comparison Factor | Aviator (Spribe) | Average Competitor |
|---|---|---|
| Year Launched | 2019 | 2020–2022 |
| Licensed Casinos Offering It | 500+ | 50–200 |
| Provably Fair | Yes | Varies |
| Dual Bet Feature | Yes | Rare |
| Live Player Chat | Yes | Sometimes |
| Mobile Optimization | Excellent | Good to Excellent |
| Community Size | Largest in genre | Growing |
| Average Session Length | 15–45 minutes | 10–30 minutes |
Understanding the Psychology of Playing Crash Games
The Greed vs. Fear Dynamic
Every round presents a psychological battle between greed and fear. As the multiplier climbs, greed whispers that you should hold on longer for a bigger payout, while fear warns that the crash is imminent. The most successful players learn to quiet both voices and rely instead on their predetermined plan and mathematical logic.
Avoiding Tilt and the Gambler's Fallacy
Tilt — a term borrowed from poker — refers to a state where frustration from losses leads to increasingly reckless decisions. In crash games, tilt often manifests as dramatically increasing bet sizes after a losing streak or refusing to cash out at reasonable multipliers. Recognizing the signs of tilt and taking a break is one of the most valuable skills any player can develop. Many players also fall into the trap of believing that if the plane has crashed early in several consecutive rounds, a high-multiplier round is "due." This is the gambler's fallacy. Each round is entirely independent, generated by a fresh random number. Historical results have zero predictive power over future outcomes, no matter how compelling the pattern may appear.
Analyzing Historical Data, Statistics, and Tips
Reading the Round History Panel
Our platform displays the results of previous rounds prominently on the game screen. Each entry shows the final multiplier at which the flight ended. While this data cannot predict future outcomes, it provides useful context about the general distribution of results and can help you calibrate your expectations for the session.
Tracking Performance and Understanding Patterns
We recommend that serious players maintain a personal log of their sessions, recording metrics such as total bets placed, total amount wagered, total winnings, and net profit or loss. Over time, this data reveals whether your approach is sustainable and highlights areas where adjustments may be beneficial. Some players attempt to identify patterns in the round history — such as clusters of low-multiplier crashes or streaks of high payouts. While such patterns can appear in any random dataset, they are the product of natural variance rather than any underlying predictable system. Use statistics as a tool for self-assessment, not as a crystal ball for aviator game winning strategies or future round prediction.
- Set a budget before every session and stick to it without exceptions
- Use the demo mode to familiarize yourself with the interface before wagering real money
- Take regular breaks to maintain focus and prevent fatigue-based mistakes
- Avoid chasing losses — accept that some sessions will end in the red
- Celebrate small consistent wins rather than always hunting for massive multipliers
- Engage with the player community through the live chat for tips and camaraderie
- Review your session statistics after each playing period to identify improvement areas
- Remember that the game is primarily entertainment — treat any profit as a bonus
Developer Background and Honest Assessment
Spribe is the Georgian-based game development studio that created the original crash game that revolutionized the online gambling industry. Founded with a focus on innovative, non-traditional casino games, Spribe has earned a reputation for transparency, fairness, and cutting-edge technology. Their products are licensed by multiple jurisdictions and tested by independent auditing firms.
Certification, Licensing, and Continuous Development
The original game holds certifications from recognized authorities including the Malta Gaming Authority and Curacao eGaming. These licenses ensure that the random number generation system is genuinely fair, that player funds are protected in segregated accounts, and that the operator adheres to strict anti-money laundering and responsible gambling standards. Spribe regularly releases updates that improve performance, enhance security, and introduce quality-of-life improvements based on player feedback. Our official site always runs the latest version, ensuring that you benefit from every optimization and new feature as soon as it becomes available.
As the official site, we believe in complete transparency. Here is our balanced evaluation of the strengths and weaknesses of the game.
- High RTP of approximately 97%, offering better theoretical returns than most casino games
- Simple, intuitive mechanics accessible to complete beginners
- Real-time social interaction through the integrated player chat
- Extensive customization with autoplay and auto cashout features
- Provably fair technology for independent result verification
- Cross-platform compatibility across desktop and mobile devices
- The fast pace can lead to rapid bankroll depletion without discipline
- No guaranteed winning method exists due to the random nature of each round
- Emotional decision-making under pressure can cause significant losses
- Not all casino platforms offer the authentic Spribe version
- Withdrawal processing times vary significantly between operators
Responsible Gaming Commitment
Our Tools for Player Protection
We provide multiple self-regulation tools including deposit limits, session time alerts, and self-exclusion periods ranging from 24 hours to permanent. These features are accessible through your account settings and can be configured at any time without contacting support.
Recognizing Problem Gambling and Age Verification
If you find yourself spending more than you can afford, chasing losses repeatedly, neglecting personal or professional responsibilities due to gaming, or experiencing anxiety related to gambling outcomes, these may be signs of problematic behavior. We encourage you to seek assistance from professional organizations such as GamCare or Gamblers Anonymous. Our platform strictly enforces a minimum age requirement of 18 years. Identity verification during the withdrawal process ensures compliance with this policy. We utilize advanced verification technology to prevent underage access and maintain the integrity of our responsible gambling standards.
- All players must be 18 years or older
- Identity verification is mandatory before first withdrawal
- Deposit limits can be set in your account settings
- Self-exclusion options are available at any time
- Support team trained to assist with responsible gambling concerns
- Links to professional help organizations provided on our site
- Session time reminders help you monitor your playing duration
| Protection Feature | Description | How to Activate |
|---|---|---|
| Daily Deposit Limit | Caps the amount you can deposit in a 24-hour period | Account Settings → Limits |
| Weekly Loss Limit | Restricts total losses allowed per week | Account Settings → Limits |
| Session Timer | Sends reminders after a set period of continuous play | Account Settings → Notifications |
| Self-Exclusion (Temporary) | Blocks account access for 24 hours to 30 days | Account Settings → Exclusion |
| Self-Exclusion (Permanent) | Permanently closes your account upon request | Contact Customer Support |
| Reality Check | Displays session summary including time spent and net result | Automatic — triggered every 60 minutes |
Frequently Asked Questions
The crash game is a real-time multiplier game where a virtual plane takes off and the multiplier increases as it climbs. Players must cash out their bets before the plane flies away. The moment of the crash is determined by a certified random number generator, ensuring complete fairness in each round.
Online gambling legality in India varies by state. There is no central federal prohibition on online casino games, but players should check their local state laws before participating. Our platform operates under internationally recognized licenses and complies with all applicable regulations.
Register an account on our official site, navigate to the deposit section, and make your first deposit. The 200% bonus is automatically credited to your account. Review the wagering requirements in our terms and conditions before attempting to withdraw bonus-related winnings.
Yes, our platform offers a full-featured demo mode that allows you to experience the gameplay mechanics, test different approaches, and familiarize yourself with the interface without risking any real money. No registration is required to access the demo version.
We support UPI, Paytm, PhonePe, Indian bank transfers, Visa, Mastercard, Skrill, Neteller, and multiple cryptocurrencies. Deposit and withdrawal options may vary slightly depending on your region and account verification status.
E-wallet and cryptocurrency withdrawals are typically processed within 1 to 4 hours. Bank transfers may take 1 to 5 business days. First-time withdrawals require identity verification, which can add processing time. We recommend completing verification early to avoid delays.
Yes, we offer dedicated apps for both Android and iOS devices. Android users can download the APK directly from our website, while iOS users can find the app in the App Store. Alternatively, our mobile browser version provides an equally smooth experience without installation.
The minimum bet starts from as low as 0.10 USD or the equivalent in local currency. This low entry point makes the game accessible to players with any budget size, from casual participants to high-stakes enthusiasts.
Yes, the game features a dual-bet system that allows you to place two independent bets in each round. You can set different amounts and cash out at different multipliers, giving you greater flexibility in managing risk and reward.
Provably fair technology uses cryptographic methods to ensure that round outcomes are predetermined and cannot be altered after bets are placed. After each round, you can verify the result independently using the provided hash and seed values, confirming that the game was fair.
No. The game uses a certified random number generator, which means each round is entirely unpredictable. While bankroll management and disciplined approaches can improve your overall experience, no method can guarantee consistent profits in a game based on chance.
If you have auto cashout enabled, the system will execute the cashout at your preset multiplier regardless of your connection status. If auto cashout is not set and you lose connection, the round will continue and if the plane crashes before you reconnect, your bet will be lost.
After every round, click the fairness verification icon next to the round result. This displays the server seed, client seed, and nonce used to generate the outcome. You can use third-party verification tools to confirm that the displayed result matches the cryptographic proof.
Yes, your account can be accessed from any device including desktop computers, laptops, tablets, and smartphones. However, you cannot be logged in on multiple devices simultaneously for security reasons. Logging in on a new device will automatically end the session on the previous one.
There is no fixed upper limit on the multiplier. While most rounds end below 10x, rare rounds can produce multipliers of 100x or higher. The distribution follows a mathematical model where high multipliers occur infrequently but are always possible.
Our customer support team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week through live chat on the website, email at our official support address, and a dedicated phone line. Average response time for live chat is under 2 minutes, ensuring that your questions and concerns are addressed promptly.
- Live chat available directly on the game interface
- Email support with response within 24 hours
- Phone support during peak hours
- Comprehensive FAQ section for self-service
- Social media channels for community interaction
- Always verify you are on the official site before entering login credentials
- Enable two-factor authentication for maximum account security
- Never share your password or account details with anyone
- Use strong, unique passwords that include letters, numbers, and symbols
- Log out after each session if using a shared device
- Report any suspicious activity to our support team immediately
- Monitor your spending against your preset budget each session
- Review your playing history regularly in the account dashboard
- Use auto cashout to enforce discipline during emotional rounds
- Join player forums and community discussions for shared insights
- Keep learning — our site regularly publishes updated guides and analysis
- Try the game today and experience the thrill of the official version