Live casino is a version of online casino games that offers real-time action, streamed from a studio or land-based venue to your computer, tablet, or mobile device. Players use the same account they would at a regular online casino to place bets and interact with a live dealer. Real cards, chips, and roulette wheels are used to make the experience more authentic. Players can also chat with the dealer and other players. There are a few key differences between live casinos and traditional online casino games, though.
Unlike most online casino games, which are developed in software programs that run on the servers of a website, live dealer games are designed and implemented by an independent company. These companies are licensed and regulated by the state gambling authorities to ensure fair play and high-quality customer service. They offer a variety of live dealer games, including roulette, blackjack, and baccarat. Some even feature a live poker room, where players can compete against each other and the dealers in real time.
The most popular live dealer games are blackjack and baccarat. The former is one of the most common casino games in the world, and a large number of online casinos host a variety of versions. Some offer multiple side bets, while others have special payouts for certain combinations of cards. Some even have a unique variant called Infinite Blackjack, which allows players to split, double down, and hit their cards.
In live casinos, the dealer’s game-play is controlled by a piece of hardware called a Game Control Unit (GCU). This small box is responsible for encoding the video broadcast and directing it to the player’s computer screen. It also keeps track of the bets placed by players and signals when they have won or lost. This technology is essential to the smooth running of live dealer games.
Although live dealer casinos are still a fairly new addition to most online gaming portfolios, they have improved significantly over the years. Some have even been adapted to the mobile platform, allowing them to be played on your smartphone or tablet. The game selection differs from site to site, but most offer the most popular casino games.
Some of the more interesting games offered by live casino sites are Monopoly Live, Football Studio, and Lightning Dice. These are a great way to add a social element to your gaming, and give you that buzzing atmosphere of a brick-and-mortar casino. It’s important to remember, however, that you must always follow etiquette when playing in a live casino. This means always being polite and respecting the dealer’s privacy. It is also helpful to know the rules of each game before you begin playing, so you can avoid any misunderstandings that may occur. This will help you have a positive experience and enjoy the games more.