We’ve come a long way from in-person casino experiences. In recent years, online casino games have taken the industry by storm. There’s need to go to a physical casino to enjoy the excitement of their games anymore. Now, you can enjoy live casino and online casino games from wherever you are.
But what exactly is the difference between live casino games and regular online casino games? Both are played online, but they offer totally different experiences. From the speed of each round to the software used and social interactions, we’re going to break down the major differences.
When you’re done here, you’ll have everything you need to know to help decide which gaming experience is best for you.
What Are Online Casino Games?
Online casino games bring the magic of casino right to your device. They are digital versions of the games you’d typically find at a casino. Your favourite slot games? Now online. You can even find online versions of your favourite table games, including poker, French, American, and European roulette, and blackjack. These are the core of online casino games.
They generally follow the rules the same way the regular games to, but the main difference is how results are determined. They often use a Random Number Generator (RNG) or similar system to determine your results.
Additionally, online casino games don’t have dealers, like you’d have in live casino or in-person games. Because there’s no dealer there to guide the session and set the game pace, that’s up to you. That means these tend to go by faster.
What Are Live Casino Games?
Like the previous type, live casino games are played online and offer that same level of convenience. However, there is a glaring difference between the two, which is that live casino games are designed to simulate the in-person experience as much as possible.
Live casino games are often live streamed from a studio or casino-style setting, with a real dealer on the other end. They run the game like any dealer would at an in-person game. There are often other players included too.
How do you play, exactly? You place your bets using the controls on your screen. During that time, the dealer will deal the blackjack cards or spin the roulette wheel, depending on the game you’re playing.
Key Differences Between Live Casino and Online Casino Games
So, other than a dealer being present in one, what are the differences between the two types of casino games? Let’s go through some of the most important ones now, so you can compare them.
Real Dealers or Software
We’ve already mentioned this one, but the biggest difference between the two is essentially who (or what) is running the game.
Live casino games are run by real dealers who manage each round while game is being streamed to you. They are usually doing it from a table that simulates how the game setting will be in an in-person casino.
Online casino games are perhaps more complicated under the surface. They are entirely run by different software. That means all game handling and dealing is shown digitally through animations, rather than an actual person.
Speed of the Gameplay
Another major difference is the pacing of the game. Live casino versions of games like roulette and blackjack, and others, tend to be slower. They follow the natural pace of each individual dealer. When playing games that have multiple players, you must wait for them to finish their turn.
Online casino games are much quicker, as you set your own pace. As soon as a round ends, you can move straight onto the next without waiting for anyone else.
Player Interactions and Socialising
Oftentimes, players tend to enjoy an individual experience when playing casino games. Online casino games allow them to be at home or anywhere else and play without needing to interact with other players or dealers.
Live casino games don’t shy away from the interaction and socialising aspect of gambling. They are more interactive and often include a chat function that lets players talk to the dealer and each other. It’s not quite the same as speaking to someone in person, but as far as online games go, it’s much more social-forward.
Game Variety
Next is game variety. Online casino games offer the widest variety of games, since they’re no limited by what can realistically happen at a live table. That’s why you can find very creative takes on game themes, like Lightning Roulette. Online casino games also include slots, crash games, and countless other formats and themes.
Live casino games are slightly limited. They focus more on standard table games and rarely move beyond that. But that doesn’t mean they all have a bland design. You can find a bunch of live game shows that put an upbeat twist on the usual gaming experience. Quantum Blackjack? Mega Fire Blaze Roulette? Those are far from plain.
Atmosphere and Overall Experience
The final difference between the two is how each one tries to create an exciting atmosphere for the player. Ultimately, each one has a very different experience, which can make or break your level of enjoyment.
Live casino games feel closer to an actual casino floor. You get to watch a dealer physically spin a wheel or deal the cards, even though you’re playing online. There are usually minimal animations or loud noises. The focus is on the game.
Online casino games can feel a bit more exciting (or chaotic, depending on how you see things). Developers rely on intriguing animations, sound effects, bonus features, and fun game mechanics. The fast-paced environment combined with these features can make a player feel immersed in the game in a way live casino games can’t achieve.
Which Type of Casino Game Should You Choose?
Remember, you don’t need to choose one over the other. You can always try both formats out to see what works best. But some people simply prefer one type of game and like to stick to it. So, how do you decide which type of casino game you want to play? Here’s a quick look.
Choose live casino games if you:
- Like playing with real dealers
- Enjoy traditional table games the most
- Want a more interactive social experience
- Prefer a slower, dealer-led pace
Choose online casino games if you:
- Want to play at your own pace
- Would like a wider variety of games, like crash games and slots
- Want faster rounds
- Like playing independently without the social aspect
Play Live Casino and Online Casino Games With playTSOGO
Whether you prefer watching someone spin the roulette wheel live or prefer the fast-paced action of crash games at your own pace, playTSOGO offers plenty of ways to play.
The best part? It’s super easy to start. Simply create an account with us or log in to your existing one and then browse our catalogue. There’s no doubt you’ll find your next favourite.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do live casino and online casino games follow the same rules?
They do tend to follow the same core rules and principals, but individual variations may differ slightly. Always be sure to check each game’s paytable and rules before playing, just to be sure.
Do live casino games use real dealers?
Yes, live casino games use real dealers who run the game via livestream.
Are live casino games available 24/7?
Many live casino games are available around the clock, but this can vary by game title, provider, and number of active tables available.
Are online casino games better than live casino for beginners?
Online casino games may feel easier for beginners because you can play at your own pace without the pressure of a live table. However, live casino games can be easy too, depending on the format you choose. Be sure to check out the best beginner-friendly casino games to see what would work for you.
