The first live casinos came on the scene 30 years ago, and since then, they have become one of the most popular online gambling platforms. Replicating exactly what happens in a real-life casino, they offer players all the same thrills and casino games and even daily free spins, but from the comfort of their own home or anywhere else they choose.

Thanks to ever-evolving technologies, faster devices and increased bandwidth, the images and gameplay are closer to the real thing than they've ever been, which is why many gamers choose to play them. Although still fun, traditional online casinos used animated software and graphics in order to determine fair and random results and lacked the social feel of a casino.

Live casinos mimic a real casino, so rather than using animations, they use real casino items - roulette wheels, playing cards, dice and dealers. And players can interact with other players and the host through online chat.

Feels real

A live casino is in real-time and has a human dealer, just like a bricks and mortar casino. This makes them exciting to play and they feel authentic, as they use live-streaming through a web camera. They work by translating the physical transactions the dealer makes into data by software known as Optical Camera Recognition (OCR). This means that players can take part in casino games and feel as though they are in the same room. The OCR captures every action in the room, from card shuffling to the spinning of the roulette wheel.

The results are also decided by a human, instead of being automated. The OCR means the casino software can recognise who has won or lost and immediately award any winnings or deduct losses. The most reputable online live casinos use software from gaming industry big-hitters such as Evolution, Microgaming, Realtime Gaming and Playtech. Some online casinos don't use live dealers, especially in poker games, but use computer simulations.

Online casinos invest a lot in terms of technology and staff to make their platforms feel authentic, including croupiers, a camera person, information technology manager and pit boss. This is why there is usually a more limited choice of games than other virtual games, but most offer the classics such as blackjack, roulette and baccarat.

Live casinos consist of at least three different rooms, which include the live studio, a software room and an analyst room, although this does vary. Depending on the site you choose, there may also be the chance to experience live games through a TV channel on your smartphone.

Live dealers are normally on a set or in a genuine casino, but either way, the tables and all game elements are real. Although table games and video game slots are continually improving, many players can't resist the real feel of a live casino, which is streamed in real time.

When a player joins a live table, they are welcomed by the host or dealer, and just like a croupier in a real casino, they control all the action, talking everyone through what's happening and showing all the results of games.

Cameras

Live feeds are streamed through HD cameras which, thanks to advances in technology, are small yet powerful, allowing players the ideal view into the room. Roulette tables usually have several cameras to ensure gamers can see the wheel, table and ball clearly.

Monitor

Monitors allow the dealer to see what players have on their screens, but if you don't want to be seen on camera, you can move position. Having a monitor means the dealer can keep track of bets and take action when necessary.

Dealing

All online dealers are experienced and fully trained, so players don't feel any different to how they would in a real-world casino. Smart cards are used to monitor all the actions a dealer makes.

Game control unit

Every live casino table has a Game Control Unit attached. About the size of a shoebox, this encodes any video that is broadcast and helps the dealer who is running the game.

Licensing

As with all online gaming, operators and software providers have to obtain a license from the gambling authorities of the country in which they want to operate. In the UK, this is the Gambling Commission, which regulates all casinos, bingo, betting and gambling machine providers.

Other live games

All the major developers have a wide range of games which complement the classic casino versions, including live game-show style games like Monopoly Live and Deal or no Deal. And with plenty of enticing offers like free daily spins, you're always guaranteed a good time, without the need to spend too many of your winnings. Free daily free spins allow players the chance to give new games a go and also more chances of winning cash or more free spins.

Final thoughts

There's a reason why live casinos are so popular - they allow players the chance to experience the thrill of a real casino without having to leave home, or wherever they happen to be. They are available any time and, unlike other online table games, allow you to interact and play with a real person, making it an immersive experience. Thanks to today's high-speed internet and advanced streaming technology, the ambience of a real casino is recreated, so whether you prefer cards or the spin of a roulette wheel, there is something for everyone.