So my understanding is that, not so long ago, slots were tested over millions of spins and ran on fewer modules.
Today, they are tested over billions and run on more modules.
Therefore, players feeling of slots are gimped compared to what they used to be is based on fact, not fiction, and a true feeling.
So, it does matter where you play and on what module. And online slots are not as random as we are led to believe. Your location, game (in terms of popularity) and the online casino will affect your chances.
The stories of consortiums of players being banned for trying to affect the RTP of a particular game is also based on fact.
No wonder players in the Bonanza thread switch sites and aggregators. It seems there is truth in that also.
Before - millions of spins, fewer modules, most at max RTP.
Today - trillions of spins, more modules splitting the players and lower RTP.