Live casino games combine the convenience of online gambling with the thrill of playing at a brick-and-mortar casino. These casino games involve a real dealer who is broadcast in real-time through a live video stream. Players can use their computer, tablet or mobile to play these casino games at any time of the day or night.
The best casinos with live dealers are able to offer many different table games, including blackjack and roulette. They also have a wide range of betting limits and allow players to play on any device from desktop computers to smartphones.
Almost all major software providers have studios all over the world, ranging from the Philippines, Latvia, Malta and Costa Rice to Spain, where some of their games are streamed live. In addition to the games they provide, some of these operators also rent out tables from these studios to their online casino partners.
A high-quality video camera and reliable Internet connection are the central pieces of equipment that enable live casino gaming. This is complemented by a Game Control Unit (GCU) that transmits and encodes the video stream.
Another important part of the live casino experience is Optical Character Recognition (OCR), which is used to recognise cards on a live stream and prevent cheating. It also allows the casino to recognize when a Royal Flush has been dealt and ensures that all winnings are paid out correctly.
These technologies are essential for live casinos to function, as they help the player and the croupier feel more authentic and real. Unlike other types of casino games, a live game is always played in real-time, so there is no need to wait for the next round of betting.
The main difference between live casinos and traditional online casino games is that you’re able to interact with the dealer, as well as other players. This adds to the social element of the experience and makes it a lot more fun.
Some online casinos also feature chat options which allow you to communicate with the croupier and other players in real-time. This can be a great way to connect with other players, learn more about the games they are playing and get tips from them on how to win.
Most online casinos have a high level of security in place, so players can rest assured that their information is protected and won’t be compromised. The live dealer stream is secured and encrypted, and e-payment platforms are heavily protected to prevent hacking.
It is important to note that the maximum amount that you can bet on a live casino game depends on the provider, so check the minimum and maximum betting limits before making a decision. Most sites have betting limits between $5 and $100, but some providers also allow higher wagers.
The most popular game at live casinos is blackjack, which can be played with a variety of variations. The rules are similar to those of a land-based casino and the goal is to get 21 or as close to it as possible without busting. You can also play poker and roulette, but these are not as popular in live casinos as they are in traditional online casinos.