Back in the 1990s, when the early days of the World Wide Web saw the introduction of the first internet casinos, there was a clear goal to replicate the experience that players would find in a ‘real’ casino. Of course, the tech limitations of the time meant that the games could look rudimentary, even if the mechanics of in-person games like blackjack and roulette were mirrored correctly.
Yet, once we reached the early 2010s, the advent of live dealer games – casino games played with real dealers, cards, dice, etc. – meant that the process of replicating the land-based casino experience could be deemed complete. Even over a decade later, it remains a remarkable tech achievement, with console technology allowing players to seamlessly place their bets with a dealer in a gaming studio.
Top sites have live games and virtual ones
Today, that means online casinos will carry both virtual software-based casino games and a live dealer selection. For instance, platforms like Speedz Casino online have a plethora of software-based roulette, blackjack, poker, and other table and card games, as well as a full suite of live dealer options. Yet, if you are a player, what’s the best format to choose? It’s not as clear-cut as one might assume.
For many, the natural inclination might be to assume that live games are better. After all, the games play out in exactly the same manner – and with the same odds – as a land-based casino. Software-based games run on random number generators; thus, the outcome is programmed and impossible to predict. However, if we return to what we say about the early online casinos of the 1990s replicating the experience of a real-world casino, then it should be noted that it includes the payout structures. In short, the games are programmed to pay best on real-world probabilities. Therefore, at least in theory, you are not at any disadvantage.
Nevertheless, you can appreciate that players might prefer live games, especially when they have strategies to implement for games like roulette and blackjack. Live dealer games to come out better in terms of social experience, too, as you can usually converse with the croupiers and other players.
More variation in software-based games
One area where the virtual games have the upper hand is with variation, i.e., the range of different games. For instance, alongside the main choices of European, French, and American roulette, you’ll find themed variations like 9 Masks of Fire Roulette, Gridiron Roulette, and Roca Riches Roulette. Software games are more likely to carry progressive jackpots, too. That said, the variation of live dealer games is growing at a steady clip. Indeed, there is a whole new genre of live dealer games tagged as “casino game shows,” which play out in a studio and are reminiscent of television game shows rather than traditional table and card games.
Overall, we would say that virtual games are better for low-stakes players, especially those who enjoy games with associated jackpots and bonus features. Moreover, if you prefer the solitude of playing against software, then you can avoid the social side of live dealer games. The latter are better suited to those who prefer traditional classic-style variants, with the caveat that there is a growing choice of live dealer game show options.
In the end, however, there is no definitive answer as to which is the superior option. As with all types of gaming, it comes down to personal choice. But it is worth bearing in mind that you should always employ your best strategies – and a cool head – whether you are playing live games or software-based virtual casino games.
This article was written in cooperation with James Evans