An alternative to randomness is handicap. For example, Go game has ranks and based on them either you or your opponent get a handicap. Equal ranked players don't use handicap. It is counted that a stone of handicap is worth ~6.5 points, and that is what's used in handicap - one player gets additional stones placed at the beginning of a match. The system is aiming to provide you with 50% win/lose percentage, and every match to feel equal.