Live casino is the latest innovation in online gambling that brings real-life experiences to players’ desktops and mobile devices. The experience can be incredibly immersive and can give gamers the chance to interact with a real dealer in real time. These live casinos typically offer a variety of games, such as blackjack, roulette and other classic table games. In addition to the traditional options, some providers also offer unique and entertaining games inspired by popular TV shows such as Dream Catcher and Monopoly Live.
The first live casinos were introduced in 2006, with Evolution Gaming leading the way. While the format was slow to catch on, it was soon accepted by iGaming audiences. It is easy to see why – the experience of interacting with a live dealer and seeing the little silver ball dance around the roulette wheel or watching the dealer deal cards has huge appeal for many gamers.
Unlike standard online casino games, which use RNGs to determine results, live dealers use physical cards and a camera to record the game. However, the technology behind live casinos is highly sophisticated and requires extensive investment. This includes studios, software and IT systems that enable players to watch the action unfold in real time. Moreover, the casino’s security is vital to ensure that live casino games are as fair as possible and to prevent cheating. To this end, it is not uncommon to find a casino with stringent anti-cheating procedures and robust cameras that can detect any suspicious activity.
The best live casinos are operated by reputable operators that adhere to strict gaming regulations and offer fair games to all customers. The casinos should have a valid license from a recognized gambling authority to maintain player trust. In addition, they should have a wide range of bonuses and promotions to boost their brand image. Moreover, they should offer a wide variety of live dealer tables to cater to different preferences.
When choosing a live casino, check the rules and bet limits before playing any game. It is also important to note whether there are any time limits, as some games have a fixed amount of time to be played within. Also, it is advisable to try out various stakes to get the feel of the game before making any big bets.
The live dealers you see on video streams work out of dedicated studios designed specifically for the purpose. These studios usually contain three rooms – the main room, an analyst room and a software room. The layout may vary depending on the operator, but each room contains powerful cameras that are used to transmit a live game to the casino website. A GCU, which is responsible for encoding video transmissions, is also an integral part of the equipment.
Players can place their bets at a live casino via a browser or downloadable client application on a mobile device. Some live casinos also support multiple languages and currencies. Using a browser is the simplest option, but some operators offer dedicated apps that are more convenient for mobile players. Moreover, some providers provide their clients with customer support agents that can help them with any issues that may arise while playing at a live casino.