What Is a Live Casino? Welcome to real-time casino gaming

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what is live casino

Learn what live casino games are, how they work, and why live dealer experiences are a popular choice for real-time, interactive online play.

  • Online gaming has reached new heights with live casino

  • Cutting-edge technology combines with authentic casino feel

  • Everything you need to know about live casino


What is a Live Casino?

A live casino is an online platform that allows players to enjoy classic table games like blackjack, roulette, poker, and baccarat in real-time. These games also typically feature a professionally trained dealer or host.

Unlike traditional online casino games, which rely exclusively on random number generators (RNGs) to determine outcomes, live casinos use a combination of RNGs and mechanical shufflers or other calibrated and tested equipment. This creates a more interactive and immersive experience whilst ensuring fairness and transparency.

At its core, a live casino bridges the gap between virtual and land-based casinos. Games are played out in real time and are often broadcast from dedicated studios or actual casino floors. Multiple camera angles capture the action from strategic positions and players get a sense of sitting at a real table from the comfort of their home.

What are Live Casino Games?

In most cases, live casino games are the same as virtual table games at Betfair Casino. The main difference is that live games feature real dealers and are streamed in real-time.

These games aim to replicate the experience of sitting at a physical table while offering all the convenience of online gambling. To deliver a realistic atmosphere, they feature felt-covered tables, mahogany wheels, real playing cards, and genuine dice.

The variety of games available in a live casino format continues to grow and you can play these games in the same way that you play virtual table games. You can also use the same casino betting guides to help you develop strategies or gameplay techniques.

Some of the most popular types of live casino games are:

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  • Live Blackjack - One of the most popular card games at any casino, live blackjack pits players against the dealer in a battle to reach 21. With live dealers, you can watch the cards being dealt in real time and make decisions in a limited window.
  • Live Roulette - The spinning wheel is a staple of casino gaming, and live roulette brings entertainment to your desktop or mobile screen. With a real croupier spinning the wheel, you can bet on your favourite numbers and enjoy payout percentages higher than those of the best RTP slots.
  • Live Poker - From Casino Hold'em to Three Card, Live Poker games allow players to test their skills against the dealer. These casino-style game variants also feature live commentary and interaction, adding to the realistic gaming experience.
  • Live Baccarat - A favourite amongst high rollers and fans of fast-paced card games, Live Baccarat offers simple gameplay and quick results. Using well-positioned cameras, some live games enhance the atmosphere with a tantalisingly slow squeeze.
  • Game Shows - These more recent and modern live casino games combine the appeal of TV show entertainment with casino payouts with engaging gameplay. Most are just as simple as online slots and offer similar bonus features.

What are Live Dealer Games and Why Are They Popular?

Live dealer games are the backbone of the live casino experience. In these games, professional dealers manage the gameplay, from shuffling and dealing cards to spinning the roulette wheel or activating the spinning mechanism.

Players can interact with live dealers and play the game with an intuitive and mobile-friendly interface. Through this interface, they can place bets, request cards, and even chat with the dealer during the game.

The human element adds a level of trust and transparency that traditional RNG-based games sometimes lack. Seeing the dealer physically draw the cards or roll the dice provides reassurance that the game is fair and results are not predetermined.

Moreover, interaction with the dealer and fellow players helps recreate the atmosphere of a real-world casino. This is something that has been missing from online gaming for a long time.

How do Live Casinos Work?

The behind-the-scenes workings of a live casino are a fascinating blend of cutting-edge technology and skilled human operation. Have you ever wondered how the real-time experience is brought to life?

  • Studios and Streaming - Live casinos often use high-tech studios that are designed to replicate the look and feel of traditional casino floors and are equipped with high-definition cameras. However, some games feature a different set-up as they are broadcast live from actual casino floors in Malta, Monaco, or other locations.
  • Live Dealers - Just like in a physical casino, live casinos employ professional dealers who are trained to engage with players and manage the game. Dealers are often fluent in several languages and are camera-ready, ensuring that they can deliver a professional atmosphere and welcome new and returning players.
  • Cameras and Software - The gaming action is captured by multiple 4K HD cameras, often offering close-up shots of the table, cards, or wheel. This ensures that players never miss a moment of the action. Filming is choreographed by professional set designers engaged by software providers, including Evolution and Pragmatic Play.
  • Live Chat - Most live casino games include a chat feature that lets players interact with others and the dealer. This adds a social dimension to the game, making it more interactive and enjoyable.

Key Takeaways

  • Live casinos are online platforms, including Betfair Casino, that offer live dealer games.
  • Live casino games are real-time versions of classic games hosted by professional dealers and streamed in high-definition to deliver an authentic and interactive gaming experience.
  • Live dealer games are live casino games that feature a live dealer or croupier. Popular examples include Live Blackjack, Live Roulette, Live Baccarat, and Live Poker.
  • Live games and game shows are just as simple to play as their virtual alternatives but provide greater realism and interaction. They are all, however, tested and certified for fairness.
  • You should only play live casino games for entertainment and never expect a payout. Gamble responsibly and never wager more than you afford to lose.

Prices quoted in copy are correct at time of publication but liable to change.