What is a Live Casino?

Live casino is a version of online gambling that allows players to connect with a real dealer via live video stream. They are available at most top casino websites and can be accessed from any device, including mobiles. Real cards, chips and roulette wheels are used on the croupier’s end while software is used to make bets and wagers on the player’s side. Some live casinos also offer a chat option which can add to the overall experience of the game.

The games are shot in real time from special studios or venues at genuine casinos. The element of authenticity is a big draw for some players who prefer the realism of playing with a live dealer rather than a computerized version. This type of casino offers blackjack, roulette, baccarat and poker games in addition to others and new titles are being added all the time. The live casino games are generally more expensive to run than standard online table games but many players consider it worth the investment because of the more realistic atmosphere that is created and the higher betting limits.

Each live casino table is fitted with a GCU (Game Control Unit). This small device is no bigger than a shoebox and its main responsibility is to encode the video that is broadcast. It is the most important part of a live casino because without it there would be no live games.

To play a live casino game you click on the name of the table that you wish to play at and you will be taken through to a video feed showing the dealer. The dealer will have buttons on their screen for you to use to let them know the bets that you wish to make. The dealers will then take your bets and spin the wheel or deal the cards as per the rules of the game.

There are a lot of different types of live casino games and it is important that you find the one that suits your style of play. Some players enjoy making slow bets and like to feel glamorous while others are more interested in the fast-paced action of James Bond style casino tables. A good way to decide which games to play is to visit a site that has a demo of the different options and try them out to see which one you are most comfortable with.

A live casino will offer a variety of welcome bonuses to attract new customers. These will usually vary in value and size and it is always best to check the terms and conditions before taking up any offer. Some may only be available to players from a certain country and some may not allow you to play at all if you aren’t within the required age limit. However, most sites are fair and will respect your wishes.