What is a Live Casino?

A live casino is the latest effort by online casinos to replicate the atmosphere of a real bricks and mortar gambling establishment on your computer or mobile device. Instead of playing virtual games against a computerised dealer, players are connected to a human dealer who is located in a specially designed studio using sophisticated cameras and high-tech IT equipment. This allows players to place bets and interact with the dealer and other live dealers.

These games are usually played on a laptop or PC, but can also be run from a smartphone or tablet. The dealer is a person who has undergone training and has a professional licence to conduct the game. The dealer will usually be a male or female, and can be from a wide range of ethnic backgrounds. The dealer’s job is to provide a second-to-none gaming experience for players, while keeping the gaming fair and above board.

The main focus of a live casino is the table games that they offer, with most operators providing blackjack, roulette and baccarat. The best sites will also offer poker and a variety of other card games, with new options being added all the time. In addition to the traditional table games, most live casino websites will feature a number of video-based games that are similar to TV game shows. These include Dream Catcher, Football Studio and Lightning Dice, with bubbly hosts presenting the action.

Players who want to play live casino games should ensure that they are at least 18 years old and live in a state where online gambling is legal. They should also check that their home internet connection can support the streaming of live video in a high quality. It’s worth remembering that the rules and payout rates for a live casino will vary between different sites, so it is wise to compare them before making any deposits or accepting any sign-up offers.

Some live casinos will allow you to sign up for a free account, while others will require a minimum deposit of £20 to open an account. However, many will offer a wide range of fantastic welcome bonuses to attract players, including extra spins on selected slots and free chips to try out the table games. These offers are often time-limited, so be sure to check the terms and conditions before committing any money.

While most online casinos offer an impressive list of games, not all will be suitable for every player. Some are better suited to specific types of players, while some are more suitable for casual gamers or high rollers. For example, some live casinos will reserve certain games for VIP gamers, in an attempt to increase the loyalty of existing customers.

While there are plenty of great live casinos to choose from, not all of them are created equal. Some will have a better reputation than others, and you should always check out the reviews of a casino before signing up. It’s also worth comparing the number of games on offer and whether it’s possible to play in your preferred language.