Eve Luneborg
Live casino games bring real dealers and physical tables to your screen via live video streaming. You can play classic games like roulette, blackjack, and baccarat in real time, just as you do at land-based casinos. Everything is handled by trained dealers in real-life studios, and you place bets using on-screen tools.
In this guide, we’ll explain how live casinos work, how to join a table, and what to expect once you’re playing. We’ll also cover topics such as table limits, device compatibility, claiming a bonus, and basic strategies. You’ll also learn the difference between live games and RNG-based games, game fairness, and key live chat rules you need to know about.
Live casinos use real dealers and real tables, and you join via a real-time stream. The dealer is in a studio designed to look like a real casino, and sometimes the studio is actually located on a casino floor. Cameras film the action, and the video is sent to your device via the online casino you play at. You place bets using on-screen controls, and the dealer sees your bets on a monitor.
Cards are shuffled by hand or machine. In roulette, the dealer spins a physical wheel. You watch everything as it happens, just like in a land-based casino. These game types are offered by multiple providers, and Evolution, Playtech, and Pragmatic Play are among the most popular.
There’s no random number generator involved — what you see is what you get. The only exception is in certain games, where an RNG can be used for bonus features, like random multipliers or bonus game rounds.
You can use the in-game chat to talk to the dealer, and sometimes other players. All live casino games work on both desktop and mobile, but you need to ensure that your internet connection is stable and strong.
To play live casino, you first need to sign up with an online casino that offers live dealer games. You’ll find a list of all the top live casino operators for Irish players right here at LiveCasino.ie. Just pick the one you prefer, and sign up as a new player.
Once your account is set up, deposit some money using your preferred payment method. Just make sure you pay attention to the minimum deposit amount. If you wish to take part in a live casino bonus, make sure you opt in to it before you complete your payment.
Once your account is funded, you can navigate to the live casino section. You’ll see different tables for blackjack, roulette, baccarat, poker, and other games.
Choose a table based on the game rules and bet limits. When you join, a real dealer will greet you through the video stream. Use your screen to place bets — just click the chips and tap the betting area. When betting time closes, the game round begins.
Always check the game rules before you start playing, as they can differ from table to table. Play at your own pace and manage your bankroll carefully.
Payouts are handled automatically, and your casino balance updates straight away. You don’t need to talk, but you can use the chat box to speak with the dealer.
All live casino tables have minimum and maximum bet limits. These limits vary depending on the game, the provider, and the specific table. You’ll usually see the limits before you join — for example, €0.50 to €5,000. In some cases, the limits are listed on a little sign, placed on the table felt. Some tables are made for casual players, while others are set up for high rollers.
In blackjack, you might see low-stakes tables starting at €1. For some roulette tables, the minimum could be even lower. Game shows often allow small bets, but some bonus rounds may require more to qualify.
Maximum bets depend on the provider and the casino’s policy. VIP tables usually have higher limits, and it’s not uncommon that the minimum bet on such tables is well over €100. Always check the limit range before placing your chips, as bets outside the allowed range won’t be accepted.
If you’re a new player, start with a low-stakes table. That way, you can get used to the rules, the pace, and work out your strategy before betting more.
Live casino chat lets you talk to the dealer and sometimes other players. It’s meant to create a social, friendly atmosphere, but there are a few basic rules to follow.
Most casinos monitor live chats to keep things fair and safe. Use the chat feature to enjoy the game, not to disrupt it.
To claim a live casino bonus, start by checking the promotions page of your casino. Look for offers that mention live dealer games. Some casinos offer specific live casino welcome bonuses, while others include live games in their general bonus terms.
The general terms must always be read in full. This is especially important when you play live games, as not all casinos let you play live casino games using a standard casino bonus. And, if you can play live dealer games with bonus funds, the wagering contribution is likely lower than 100%. Typically, you can expect between 5% and 50% of each bet to count towards the playthrough requirement, depending on which game type you choose.
Once you’ve decided on a bonus, make the required deposit and, if needed, enter the bonus code. The bonus should appear in your account along with your deposited funds. In some cases, you may need to opt in manually.
Then, place your bets on eligible live tables. Be aware of bet size limits — large bets might not be allowed. Once you meet the wagering requirement, you can cash out your winnings according to the casino’s withdrawal policy.
Strategies you can use in live casino games vary depending on the game you play. In blackjack, basic strategy charts are often used to decide when to hit, stand, double, or split. These are based on maths, not guesswork, and allow you to play a perfect blackjack game — reducing the house edge to its minimum.
In roulette, many choose to follow progressive betting systems like Martingale or Fibonacci. These systems don’t change the odds but help manage your bankroll by increasing or decreasing your bet according to previous results.
In baccarat, betting on the Banker is statistically the best choice due to a slightly lower house edge. However, keep in mind that the house usually takes a commission on these bets. Some players like to track patterns, though this doesn’t affect the outcome.
For live game shows, outcomes are completely random, and you can’t do anything but trust your luck. Then again, some players think spreading small bets across multiple segments to cover more results is the best strategy to use.
Keep in mind that no strategy can ever guarantee a win. Live casino games are designed for entertainment, and the house always has an edge. Always bet within your limits, and only spend money you can afford to lose.
You can play live casino games on most devices, including desktop computers, laptops, smartphones, and tablets. The games run through your browser, so there’s never a need to download any special software. However, some casino operators offer a casino app, which you can choose to use. Nowadays, all live casinos are mobile-friendly and adjust the layout to fit your screen.
A stable internet connection is important. Live casino games use high-quality video streams, so if your connection is weak, the video may freeze, lag, or disconnect. Wi-Fi or fast mobile data is recommended.
If you’re playing on mobile, turning your phone sideways gives a better view of the table.
Losing connection during a game is not a huge problem, as most casinos save your bet and continue automatically. You can check the results when you reconnect. However, if you’re playing a game you actively need to participate in, like blackjack, the loss of connection might lead to you not being able to play out your hand. And this can, of course, lead to a loss.
Live casino games are run by licensed providers and monitored by gambling regulators. This ensures that the games are fair and follow strict rules. The cards, wheels, and equipment are real — not controlled by software. You see everything on screen as it happens, with no random number generators used in the game itself. This makes it easy to verify that the games are fair.
Studios use multiple cameras and secure systems to prevent interference. Dealers are trained professionals and follow set procedures. For full transparency, all actions are recorded and logged for transparency.
Licensing authorities and third-party testing companies audit providers regularly. These checks confirm that games are not rigged and that payouts are accurate.
Casinos also use encryption to protect your personal and banking details. When you play on a licensed site, you can be sure that your data is stored securely and that all transactions are encrypted.
Live casino games are played with real dealers and real equipment, streamed in real time. You can see the cards being dealt or the roulette wheel spinning, and the game follows the same rules as in a land-based casino. There’s also a social element — you can chat with the dealer and sometimes with other players.
RNG (Random Number Generator) games are fully digital and use software to produce random results. There’s no video stream or dealer, and the pace is usually faster. RNG games are played alone, with no chat function or live interaction.
Live casino games often have higher table limits and a slower pace, while RNG games let you play as fast as you like. Some bonuses may not apply to live games, as they often contribute less towards wagering.
Both game types are regulated, but the experience and setup are different. Live games offer a more realistic feel, which is why many players prefer them.
To get the most from your live dealer game experience, it’s important that you’re familiar with the terminology that’s used. This will help you understand how each game works and what’s expected at the table. Terms like ‘stand’, ‘split’, ‘banker’, and ‘inside bet’ have specific meanings that affect your decisions. Misunderstanding these can lead to mistakes or missed opportunities.
It also improves communication with dealers and other players. If you use the right terms, you avoid confusion during fast-paced games. This is especially useful when using live chat or following instructions from the dealer.
Some casinos display game terms directly on the interface, but not all provide detailed explanations. Being familiar with the language helps you follow the game flow, understand the rules, and make informed choices.
Whether you’re new or experienced, knowing the correct terminology supports smoother gameplay and helps you avoid common errors. It also makes the experience more professional and enjoyable, especially at high-stakes or advanced tables. So, make sure you check out our detailed live casino glossary.
Live casino games are easy to play, and there’s not much of a learning curve. However, there are some aspects you should understand in order to succeed. Not least, knowing the words and terminology associated with live dealer games will help you immensely and enhance your overall experience.
As a player, there are some key aspects you need to look into before embarking on your live casino journey. Make sure you understand how to play, which bets are allowed, and how you use bonuses to play live dealer games. All is explained here in this live casino guide, so you can get started in a matter of minutes.
Eve Luneborg – Live Casino Specialist at LiveCasino.ie
Eve Luneborg has been part of the online casino industry since 2014, when she moved to the sunny shores of Malta to pursue her passion for gaming.