Live Dealer
Live Dealer
Live dealer refers to the innovative technology and immersive experience that bridges the gap between traditional land-based casinos and online gaming. It allows players to participate in real-time table games hosted by human dealers, streamed directly to their devices. This blend of authentic casino atmosphere and digital convenience is a cornerstone of what defines a modern
How Live Dealer Technology Works
While the experience feels seamless, several key components work in unison to deliver live dealer games:
- The Game Control Unit (GCU): A small, often hidden device attached to every gaming table. It digitally encodes game data, such as card values or roulette wheel results, ensuring accuracy and instantaneous transmission to the game software.
- Optical Character Recognition (OCR) Cameras: High-definition cameras capture every action, from cards being dealt to dice rolls. OCR technology "reads" these physical elements in real-time, converting them into digital data that the game software understands and displays to players.
- The User Interface (UI): This digital overlay is what players interact with. It allows placing bets, communicating with the dealer via chat, and viewing game statistics, all while watching a high-quality video feed of the live action.
Evolution and Game Variety
The live dealer phenomenon began with classic table games like and roulette. Over time, it has expanded significantly, now encompassing a vast range of titles including baccarat, poker variants, and the highly popular sub-genre. These game shows often combine wheel mechanics with engaging live hosts, creating a unique, entertainment-first casino streaming experience. Players are drawn to the authenticity, social interaction with dealers and other players, and the transparent nature of seeing real cards dealt or wheels spun.
Related Terms
- UIGEA (2006)
The Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act, a controversial US law that crippled the early online poker market.
- Geo-Location
Technology used to verify a player's physical location to ensure they are playing from a permitted jurisdiction.
- Wagering Requirement
The number of times a bonus amount must be played through before it can be withdrawn as real cash.
- Bonus Buy Explained
A mechanic that allows players to pay a premium (usually 50x-100x the bet) to trigger the game's main bonus round immediately.
- LTV Lifetime Value
Total expected revenue from a player over their entire relationship.
- House Edge
The mathematical advantage that the casino has over the player in any given game.