Live casino is a specialised form of online gaming whereby players are connected to a real-life dealer who deals cards, spins the wheel or rolls the dice. The games are streamed from studios that feature interior design and decor, atmospheric lighting and cutting-edge multi-camera and IT technology. Players can interact with the dealer via a chat window and can also place bets on the outcome of the game.
The best live casinos are those that offer an expansive selection of games, with plenty of choice in terms of bet limits and tables. They should have multiple languages and support options, including email and live chat. A strong back end is also vital, with the ability to process payments quickly and securely.
There are many different software providers for live casino games, with each bringing their own unique style to the niche. Some specialise in specific table games, while others stream live dealer tables directly from inside world-famous casino venues. Regardless of their individual styles, the best live casinos are staffed with experienced and friendly dealers, who make the experience that much more enjoyable.
Most live casinos have a variety of betting options, with the most popular being roulette and blackjack. The roulette table will usually feature several variants, while baccarat and various casino poker games are often offered as well. Most live casinos will also offer a good number of side bets, such as the Money Wheel and Top Card.
The software that powers live casino games uses a number of state-of-the-art devices, including the Game Control Unit (GCU) and optical camera recognition. The GCU is what transmits the data to the players, while OCR takes everything that is happening on the screen and turns it into usable information. This is important, as it enables the live casino to track players’ bets and payouts.
Aside from the software and devices, the most important component of a live casino is the dealer. The dealer is the person who actually runs the show, and their skill and charisma are what makes the experience so special. The croupiers at the best live casinos are often very well trained and have a wide range of experience, with many having a wealth of entertaining stories to tell. They may be wearing a suit and tie, or they may even be wearing a purposely skimpy outfit.
Another thing to look for when selecting a live casino is the quality of the cameras and sound. The camera quality should be high, and the sound should be clear so that you can hear what the dealer is saying. In addition, the dealers should be well-dressed and have a friendly demeanour. They should also be able to answer any questions you might have about the game. Lastly, the live casino should be easy to navigate and operate.