How Live Casino Software Works
Live casino software forms the link between the live casino studio floor and the player at their computer screen. Both sides provide inputs – the dealer deals a card, for example, and the player makes a decision – and the software interprets these inputs.
Basically, the software provides the interface between the player and dealer. It also offers an exciting experience for the player, with engaging designs and colors. Finally, the software needs to be intuitive and easy to use, supporting a positive player experience.
Automated Components of Live Casino Software
Automated functions are important to live casino software. For instance, the software needs to recognize the dealt card or the number from a roulette spin. This is handled automatically, through recognition capability that is programmed into the system.
The software will need to represent this on the player's visual interface. This is why the automatic recognition capability needs to be so sophisticated and so accurate – the integrity of the gameplay depends upon this.
The very best examples of live casino software bring together automated and manual functions. The gamer is still in manual control of the gameplay, and they are face-to-face with a physical dealer, but they are supported with automated features.
Live Casino Studios
The live casino studio is where the action happens during live casino gaming. This is what makes the live casino different from other sorts of casino gambling.
In a physical casino, players are physically present in the gaming environment. In an online casino, players are engaging with pre-programmed digital games. A live casino is a middle ground between these two – real, live casino games delivered via a digital connection.
So, a live casino needs a studio. This is where the dealer will be situated, connected to the player via the live casino software and an internet connection.
What Are the Unique Features of a Live Casino Studio?
A live casino studio needs a number of unique features and aspects if it is to be successful.
Live Dealer
Live studio games will generally have a live dealer. This is an important point of difference between the live game and a pre-programmed online game, and it contributes to the overall experience. These dealers will typically be highly trained and very professional, as well as multilingual in many cases.
Cameras
Of course, the studio needs cameras. These cameras will capture the gameplay and also help the dealer interact with the player. Players can be assured of the authenticity of the gameplay via the video link.
Audio
The audio connection is almost as important as the camera link. Players need to be able to hear the dealer as they play, supporting an experience similar to that of the casino floor. Like the video connection, the audio connection is only single-direction – the dealer cannot hear or see any of the players.
Chat Tools
Some games may allow players to interact with the dealer, although this is not typically delivered via audio and visual connections. Instead, communication will be handled via a chat tool that is built into the live casino software. Players can type messages on their device, and these messages will be delivered to the dealer.
Studio Furniture
The furniture of the live casino studio is intended to resemble the floor of a physical casino. While some live studios are situated in real-life physical casinos, most are just mockups of this environment, with card tables and roulette wheels in a closed space.
Streaming Capability
Streaming capability is critical to the success of the live casino studio. Studio games need to be broadcast to players in remote locations, which means a high level of bandwidth is required. Some live online gambling software providers will operate different studios across multiple locations to offer a universal experience to all players.
Studio Latency
Any latency – i.e., any delay between the studio and the remote player – can be problematic. Studios need to work with software solutions that eliminate this latency and provide a seamless experience to the player. However, the player device will also need to be up to date. If the player is using an older device, they may not be able to access the full experience or enjoy all of the gameplay features.
Top Live Casino Software Providers
The first casino live dealer software provider is said to have been invented in 1994 by Microgaming, which also happens to have been the first company to design the first-ever internet casino. The online gambling sector has witnessed rampant growth as more developers make significant strides.
These live casino providers continually release fresh and advanced content, giving gamblers plenty of options and excellent gaming experiences with the greatest live games. The present-day casinos are more sophisticated with improved sound effects, animation, and graphics.
Top live casinos utilize Random Number Generators or RNGs that ensure equality and fairness when picking winners. The RNGs are from third parties, so the casino operators cannot manipulate the systems.
Casino applications can be classified into mobile apps, instant play, and downloadable apps for PC. The games come in all formats so that players can enjoy them on a plethora of devices without losing the original quality.
However, the vast majority of punters prefer to gamble on mobile as it suits their on-the-go lifestyle. The instant play lets players use their browsers without downloading anything. This is mainly Adobe Flash, which is compatible with all computer operating systems.
Software Company |
Established |
Licenses |
Studios |
Games |
Evolution |
2006 |
Worldwide |
Romania, Latvia, Philippines, Spain |
Different blackjack variations, Baccarat, Roulette, Casino Holdem, 3card Poker, Caribbean Stud Poker, Deal or No Deal, Ultimate texas hodlem, Texas Holdem Bonus, Holdem Bonus Poker, Dragon Tiger, Dream Catcher, Monopoly Dream Catcher live, Football Studio, Super Sic Bo, Lightning Dice, Side Bet City, Crazy Time, Live Craps, Cash or Crash, FanTan, Bac Bo, Xxxtreme Lightning roulette, Gold bar roulette, Monopoly big baller, Super Andar Bahar and Teen Patti |
NetEnt |
1994 |
Malta Gaming Authority, UK Gambling Commission, and other renowned jurisdictions |
Malta |
Over 800 games |
Playtech |
1999 |
MGA, UKGC, NJGC, PAGCOR, Isle of Man |
Latvia, Philippines, Romania, Spain, United States |
Live dealer versions of Roulette, Blackjack, Casino Hold’em, Baccarat, Three Card Brag, Hi-Lo |
Authentic Gaming |
2015 |
UK, Malta, Romania |
United States, United Kingdom, Italy, Denmark, Romania |
Different live roulette variations, Multi-Play Blackjack |
SA Gaming |
2008 |
Philippines |
Europe, Philippines |
Baccarat, Roulette, Blackjack, Live Dragon Tiger Shanghai, Live Sic Bo Shanghai, Live Money Wheel, Live Fantan Shanghai, Live Cow Cow Baccarat |
Ezugi |
2013 |
Malta, Curacao, Bulgaria, Colombia |
United States, Bulgaria, Colombia, Latvia, Malta, Romania, Belgium, Hungary, Georgia |
Blackjack, Roulette, Baccarat, Casino Holdem, Live lottery, Live Keno, Andar Bahar, Teen Patti, Bet on Teen Patti |
Asia Live Tech |
2011 |
Cambodia |
Cambodia |
Baccarat, Sic Bo, Fan Tan, Xoc Dia, Dragon Tiger, BelangKai, Roulette |
7Mojos |
2020 |
Malta, Bulgaria |
Varna, Bulgaria, Malta Gaming Authority |
Andar Bahar, Teen Patti, Dragon Tiger |
Asia Tech Live |
2011 |
Cambodian Government |
Cambodia |
Baccarat, Sic Bo, Roulette, Fan-Tan, Xoc Dia, Dragon Tiger, BelangKai |
BetConstruct |
2003 |
Malta, The Alderney Gambling Control Commission |
The UK Gambling Commission Armenia |
Roulette, Baccarat, Blackjack, Bet on Poker, Russian Poker |
DreamGaming |
2018 |
Cambodia |
Genting Crown Casino in Cambodia |
Baccarat, Dragon Tiger, Roulette, Sic Bo, Baccarat Cow Cow, Hi-Lo, Bullfight |
EntwineTech |
2004 |
Alderney, IOM , First Cagayan |
Philippines, Malaysia |
Many different Baccarat variations, Blackjack, Roulette, Sic Bo, Dragon Tiger |
PragmaticPlay |
2019 |
The UK |
Romania, Malta |
Blackjack, Roulette, Baccarat, Mega Sic Bo, Mega Wheel, Andar Bahar, Dragon Tiger, Sweet Bonanza Candyland |
Asia Gaming |
2012 |
First Cagayan, PagCor |
Philippines |
Dragon Tiger, Dragon Bonus, Sic Bo, Roulette, Blackjack, Baccarat, Bullfight/Bull Bull, Win Three Cards |
BetGames |
2012 |
Curacao, UK Gambling Commission |
|
Bet on poker, Bet on Baccarat, War of Bets, Lucky 5, Lucky 6, Lucky 7, Dice Duel, Wheel of Fortune, Speedy 7, Andar Bahar |
Best Live Casino Game Providers
A gaming app plays a significant role in the player experience at an online casino real money site. It determines the type of games available on the betting platform, table limits, rules to follow, and the odds of winning.
The app developer influences the overall design and content of a live dealer online casino. When opening a gambling site, the operator has to reckon with various suppliers of gaming apps to make their site appealing even to first-time visitors. So, what are the best household names in the industry, and what makes them unique?
Microgaming
Allegedly, Microgaming is the pioneer of the online gambling industry and the first creator of an actual live casino. It was founded in South Africa but is headquartered in the Isle of Man. The company has produced over 800 titles, and their progressive jackpots have reached over 3 billion euros in total payouts. Every day, Microgaming records at least 7,000 winners.
Microgaming games are audited independently for fairness and randomness. Each month, casinos that partner with Microgaming are assured of new game titles thanks to the company’s collaboration with a dozen gaming studios.
Microgaming is committed to protecting gamblers from online scams. Being a founding member of:
- All-In Diversity Project
- Internet Gaming Council
- eCOGRA
NetEnt
NetEnt is also known as Net Entertainment, and it is one of the biggest live dealer providers in the world. The company has a strong reputation for high-quality products. Founded in 1996, NetEnt is one of the best brands for innovative game titles. This live casino provider has developed over 800 games with superb audio, graphics, pooled jackpots, intuitive interface, and multilingual options. NetEnt games often feature customized bonuses and have received prestigious awards, making the company stand out from the rest.
Licenses from Malta Gaming Authority, UK Gambling Commission, and other renowned jurisdictions make NetEnt a credible developer. NetEnt has been penetrating US gambling markets for the last few years where casino gaming is legalized, especially in:
- West Virginia
- Pennsylvania
- New Jersey
NetEnt joined Evolution Gaming Group AB in 2020. More slots are expected to be released soon from this industry giant.
Playtech
Playtech has been around for over two decades and is one of the best-known providers in the market. This helps to instill trust in players. Established in 1999, Playtech has built its name with more than 700 top-notch casino games playable on mobile platforms. The brand is associated with virtually all classic casino live games, from slots, bingo, poker, eSports, and lotto. Their slots are the most played and highly versatile. Many gaming sites turn to Playtech because they are reliable.
The company is famous for:
- Holy Grail
- Jackpot Giant
- iPoker
Moreover, their incentives and high bonuses are unparalleled.
Realtime Gaming
Real-Time Gaming (RTG) dates back to 1998. The company’s journey started in the US state of Georgia but moved later to Costa Rica. RTG powers some of the biggest live casino real money sites.
They are constantly releasing different table game variations and new slots. The provider is well-known for its superb game selection. RTG gaming sites boast over 100 titles, including a massive section of video slots. Thanks to their partnership with big gaming corporations, RTG has gained a tremendous reputation.
Evolution Gaming
Evolution Gaming is a very well-established gambling software provider, and one of the most popular choices among casino players in today's market. This live casino provider company started operation in 2006. True fans of live gaming have at some point come across Evolution Gaming.
Popular options for Evolution Gaming include live versions of different blackjack variations, Baccarat, Roulette, Casino Holdem, 3card Poker, Caribbean Stud Poker, Deal or No Deal, Ultimate texas hodlem, Texas Holdem Bonus, Holdem Bonus Poker, Dragon Tiger, Dream Catcher, Monopoly Dream Catcher live, Football Studio, Super Sic Bo, Lightning Dice, Side Bet City, Crazy Time, Live Craps, Cash or Crash, FanTan, Bac Bo, Xxxtreme Lightning roulette, Gold bar roulette, Monopoly big baller, Super Andar Bahar and Teen Patti.
Evolution Gaming has the highest number of awards for providing live games and have studios worldwide.
International Gaming Technology
International Gaming Technology, commonly referred to by the acronym IGT, this developer started business in 1971. Their first gaming machines were built for land-based casinos. Most of the games found in brick-and-mortar casinos are also available online, courtesy of IGT. All IGT games come with licenses, e.g., Wheel of Fortune, Family Guy, CSI, and Ghostbusters.
Ezugi
Ezugi has become well-known for providing gaming software with a focus on the player experience. Players enjoy smooth, intuitive gameplay that may suit particular playing preferences and styles. Formed in 2013, Ezugi specialized in live dealer online casino games. It has been one of the partner brands of Evolution Gaming since 2018 and is licensed with Curacao, New Jersey, and Malta.
Ezugi is more into card game varieties with a broad player base as Blackjack, Roulette, Baccarat, Casino Holdem, Live Lottery, Live Keno, Andar Bahar, Teen Patti, Bet on Teen Patti. These live games are streamed from live casino studios in Malta, Cambodia, and multiple studios in central America, Bulgaria, Belgium, and Latvia. These live games are available in English and Spanish.
Casino Gaming Providers and Country Restrictions
There are many live casino gaming and software providers around the world. As such, it is important for players to remain aware of which provider they are working with – so they know which options provide the best experience, or the experience best suited to the player's individual style.
Legal Restrictions on Live Casino Gaming
All international jurisdictions have their own rules when it comes to live casino gambling. Players should double-check to make sure that this form of gambling is permitted where they are located.
- In Europe, most countries permit live casino gaming. Some locations, such as Germany, only permit gaming in specific states within the country.
- In Africa, most countries do not permit live casino gaming. Some countries do not have laws that regulate this industry, which makes live casino gambling something of a legal gray area.
- In Australia and New Zealand, live online casino gambling is generally permitted. In NZ, legal live casinos must be NZ-based.
- In Asia, many countries do permit live casino gambling, although some countries – such as India – only permit this in specific locations within the nation.
- In North America, the USA and Canada permit live casino gaming only in certain states. Live casino gameplay is permitted in some form across most North American countries.
- In Latin America, some Central and South American countries permit live casino gaming. In some countries, such as Ecuador, all forms of gambling are wholly outlawed.
How to Choose a Good Live Dealer Provider
How do players identify the best live dealer casinos? Choosing live casino dealers and gaming products can be a very personal process, with many different factors involved. However, there are a few things players should look out for.
Great Streaming Quality and Low Latency
Players should look for casinos with great graphics, low latency, and highly reliable, highly stable streams. This has a marked effect on the gameplay.
A Strong Roster of Games
Players like a bit of variety in their gameplay. The live dealer casino game provider should be able to support this with plenty of different gaming options in their roster.
An Expert Team
The dealer should be expert and highly professional. They should also be able to communicate with the player in their native language. Other team members, such as pit managers and support personnel, should also be experts at what they do.
Fair and Transparent Processes
The ideal live games provider will be audited regularly for fairness and compliance, and they will be fully upfront and transparent about their gameplay and the payment systems.
Reliable Security
Live casino providers should have exemplary security records, and HTTPS protocols and end-to-end encryption to keep players safe while they are using casino websites and applications.
Solid Gameplay Options Across Multiple Devices
Players may wish to use their desktop computer devices to connect with products from within their own homes. Alternatively, they may want to use tablet or smartphone devices to really leverage the best from remote gaming. The best live casino game providers will be able to accommodate this, offering the same high level of quality and experience.
Local Legality
Of course, the provider's products must be fully licensed and legal in the player's location. This includes when the player is traveling to a country only for a short time, such as on holiday.
Top-Quality Atmosphere
The player should feel welcome at all times when playing. There should be a warm and enjoyable atmosphere for the player whenever they connect with a live casino game. Support should be easy to find when required, and the user experience should be intuitive.
Gaming Bonuses
Most casino providers also offer bonuses to their players. These bonuses should be sufficiently valuable for the player, and should align with the player's gaming style and strategy. The bonuses should not encourage the player to wager outside of their own strategy – for example, a casino provider that offers a free spin bonuses with outlandishly high deposit requirements may not be reputable.
What Are the Best Gaming Providers?
Software from the world's casino game developer studios can be wide-ranging in terms of quality. With this in mind, players need to look out for key advantages when they choose a specific piece of software or a software provider. They also need to look out for potential red flags that may suggest a bad user experience. The best gambling software companies will feature the following:
- Lots of great reviews from other live dealer game players
- Operating requirements that match the player's own device
- Plenty of streaming quality options, enabling gameplay at different connection speeds
- Dealers who speak the player's language
- Technical and gameplay support accessible at any time
- Accreditations from industry bodies and game provider organizations
- Reliable streaming quality at all times of day and night
- A fair and transparent gameplay process
- An intuitive and easy-to-use interface for the player
- Reasonable withdrawal limits and deposit requirements
Casino Streaming Technology
Live casino gaming depends upon sophisticated technology that provides a seamless experience for players. Some of the key features of this technology are found below.
Optical Character Recognition – or OCR – Software
OCR software is what is used to recognize numbers and values on cards and in other aspects of gameplay. These values are then represented on the user interface.
High-Resolution Cameras and Streaming
The best live dealer casino game providers will utilize professional-grade cameras capable of providing high-definition streaming. Typically, the studio will have multiple cameras.
Game Control Unit – or GCU
The GCU is the central hub for the software. This is what ensures players can view gameplay events without delay and execute wagers or other actions.
Communication Tools
The dealer will generally communicate with the player via audio and video connections. The player may be able to communicate with the dealer, usually via a chat tool that is built into the software.
About the author
Ethan Williams
About
Ethan Williams, a lively 24-year-old lad from the UK, brilliantly fuses his passion for online casinos with top-notch English localisation, creating bespoke casino guides for Britain's keen gaming lot.