Live casino is a version of online casino games that uses real cards and professional human dealers to bring the land-based experience into your home. Players can use the same betting options as they would at a traditional casino but there is also the added social element of being able to talk with the dealer or other players through the chat function. Those who have tried this type of gambling will agree that it is a fantastic way to recreate the Las Vegas vibe without having to travel anywhere.
The game portfolio of a live casino will normally include the classic table games available at every land-based casino, usually including blackjack, roulette and baccarat. This will then be supplemented with poker and other popular titles. Some casinos will also offer a VIP table option that will give players access to higher betting limits and a more luxurious environment.
One of the biggest challenges when it comes to running a live casino is keeping the gaming experience as authentic as possible. This is achieved by using the same technology that you’d find at a brick and mortar casino but then adding software on the player’s end to control everything. This includes the ability to make bets and place the correct bet prompts for each round. This software is designed and developed with your playing experience in mind to allow for as much flexibility as possible.
Another piece of the puzzle is ensuring that the live dealer can recognise and read the chips and cards, as well as spin the roulette wheel. This is done using a combination of optical character recognition (OCR) and the same sort of technology that car parks use to capture the number plates of cars entering or exiting the parking lot. There is also an ingenious piece of hardware called a GCU (Game Control Unit) that is the heart of the live casino and is hardly bigger than a shoe box. Without it the whole operation wouldn’t be possible.
Once you’ve chosen which live casino game you want to play, the process is quite simple. You’ll need to have signed up for a new account and made your first instant deposit before heading over to the live casino section of the site where you can browse through the games available, just like you would scope out a table in a regular casino. The games will be displayed on the screen of your PC, tablet or mobile device and you’ll be able to click on the desired game to be whisked away to the studio of your choice.
Most of the live casino games on offer will be compatible with any operating system and you’ll be able to play them on your desktop, tablet or smartphone. However, you should check that the betting limits suit your bankroll as this can vary from site to site. You’ll also need a stable internet connection so that you can watch the games in HD quality.