Live casino offers players the chance to play real-life table games with a live dealer, streamed from a special studio. Unlike standard online casinos, where players simply click on their preferred game to be taken to a virtual table, the live dealer is using actual equipment (such as a shoe of cards for blackjack or a roulette wheel) and the player has the ability to interact with the dealers via buttons on their screen.
The best live casinos are hosted in specialised studios which are designed to be able to broadcast the video of the game in fantastic quality over the internet. This video will then be encoded by a specialist device called a GCU (Game Control Unit) and sent to the live dealer’s computer where it will be transmitted to your screen. Depending on the game there may also be a camera at the wheel and an additional microphone for audio purposes.
A huge benefit of playing in a live casino is that the dealer will be able to speak directly to the player and respond to their decisions in real time. This creates a much more engaging experience than simply clicking on a button to make a decision on a slot machine. In addition, some of the top live casinos allow players to chat with the dealers and each other, adding a further social element to the gaming experience.
It is worth mentioning at this point that many live casinos have rules in place to prevent players from talking too much and causing disruption to the game session. While it is fine to have a small chat and compliment other players, it is important to be aware of the rules and not distract the dealer or other players from the game.
As with all casino games, there is a house edge attached to each game and the lower that number is, the better your chances of winning. It is therefore important to research the different games and their house edges before you decide where to play. Look for a site that outlines these odds clearly so you can compare them and choose the best one for your budget.
The majority of live casino games are based on card and table games, with baccarat, blackjack and roulette among the most popular choices. These games are easy to understand and can be played on most devices, including mobiles and tablets. Those looking to play on the go should check that the mobile version of a live casino is optimised for their chosen platform before making a deposit.
Many live casinos offer players the opportunity to take advantage of generous sign-up bonuses. These can come in the form of free spins on various games or even a cashback bonus where the casino will return some of their losses to the player. These bonuses often have T&C so check them before signing up. They are an excellent way to boost your bankroll and get started with the games.
