The Ultimate Guide To Live Dealer Games

BetMGM Mar 22, 2025, 8:46 AM
min read
A laptop on a poker table with a live dealer game on the screen. There are casino chips on the keyboard and blue and pink smoke in the background.

Many people have had the experience of wanting to play casino games but not necessarily wanting to go to a casino. There is a solution to this quandary: live dealer online casino games. Live dealer games bring the casino to you, whether you’re relaxing at home, taking a break at work, or passing time waiting for an appointment.

Within BetMGM Casino’s catalog of live dealer titles, you’ll find traditional casino games, innovative takes on those classics, and entirely new games of chance. All of them come with the production quality and rewards that BetMGM players expect.

Like with any other casino game, understanding how to play and the odds you need to work with can make your live dealer experience far more enjoyable. But before you dive into how these live dealer games work, here’s a quick look at how live dealer games were created.

The History and Evolution of Live Dealer Games: From Concept to Reality

Not long after the internet was created, people realised its potential for online casino games. Within a relatively short space of time, people started to broadcast casino games over the web. The humble beginnings of live dealer casino games stretch back to the late 1990s when a few websites featured live poker feeds.

At that time, people could only watch live games, not participate in them. Regardless, the popularity of these feeds showed that there was a market for an online live dealer casino when the technology allowed.

That time came in the early 2000s when software developers like Playtech introduced their first live casino platforms. For the first time, people could not only watch live casino games, but they take part in them over the internet.

Since then, live dealer games and online casino technology has rapidly evolved. With investments in user interfaces, higher internet speeds, and dedicated studios, live dealer games are a top priority for online casinos in the 2020s.

Because of these investments, there’s never been a better time to check out live dealer online casinos. It’s easy once you understand the basics. 

How Does a “Live Dealer” Work in an Online Casino?

When online casinos first emerged, they were limited to digital versions of many games that use a random number generator (RNG) to determine outcomes. Every aspect of such games is virtual but playing live dealer games online works very differently.

In live dealer games, real people are administering the games and many of the game implements are the same tangible elements you’d find if you visited a physical casino. For example, live dealer games use real cards and real dice on actual casino tables.

All of the game action is broadcast to players in real-time and players place bets as the game unfolds. In short, it’s the closest you can get to playing at a casino without having to play at a casino.

Many players prefer enjoying casino games this way instead of enjoying RNG games for many reasons. In many instances, it simply comes down to matters of taste.

Live Dealer vs. Regular Online Casino Games: The Differences

Live dealer games provide a different experience than regular casino games. There are thousands of RNG (random number generator) games in BetMGM’s library, but many players choose live dealer games because they prefer that experience.

Some players would rather have the fate of their bets decided by the roll of actual dice, the bounce of a real pill on a physical roulette wheel, or a human dealing tangible cards rather than an RNG. That is simply a preference, however, as BetMGM’s RNG games are based on the same odds as live dealer games.

Many players also love live dealer games because playing them delivers some of the familiar sights and sounds that are common to playing the same games at a land-based casino. When you’re in a comfortable setting, you’re relaxed and more likely to make good decisions as you play.

A final reason that many people choose live dealer games is because it affords them an amount of social interaction that RNG titles can’t deliver. Players can communicate with the dealers and the other players as well.

Live dealer games can be fun and rewarding due to the professionalism of the staff and the quality of the game components. The technology does a lot of the heavy lifting, too.

The Technology Behind Live Dealer Games

When you play a live dealer game at BetMGM, whether you realize it or not, you’re utilizing a lot of online casino technology. Every move you make in these games completely depends on these systems.

An incredible amount of hardware goes into bringing these games to life, including cameras, lighting, microphones, cables, the latest computing hardware, and the device you’re using to play the games. As far as software goes, a wide range of different software applications are required as well, from operating systems, to broadcast management tools, to game software, and more. To appreciate the full scope of this setup, it’s worth looking into the logistics behind broadcasting real live dealer casino games.

No matter how often you play, you have this technology to thank for your experience every time. The professionals who make these games possible are behind all the benefits of live dealer games.

Benefits of Playing Live Dealer Games Online

When you play live dealer games online, you’re taking advantage of opportunities to experience the best that casinos like BetMGM have to offer. There are many benefits to choosing these live dealer titles

For people who are new to certain games and want to learn how to play them before trying their luck at a physical casino, playing live dealer versions can be a low-pressure way to get accustomed to the game rules and game experience. People who are uncomfortable in crowds but want to experience the sights and sounds of these games anyway might find live dealer games a great solution.

Live dealer games can also be an ideal way to try out popular betting systems and explore new variations on casino games. Regardless of why people choose these games, there’s room in the casino industry for all versions of the games.

Will Live Dealer Games Take Over Offline and Online Casinos?

The question of live dealer vs. online casino games or games at a brick-and-mortar casino isn’t a question of competition. Live dealer games are an alternative, offering a different experience.

The beauty of all three of these formats being available is that players can switch between them at will.

RNG games are perfect for players who want to play on their own or who are extremely new to certain games. The same games at land-based casinos offer gambling entertainment while also providing many other amenities and experiences that online casinos can’t offer. Live dealer formats take some of the elements of both forms of gaming and uniquely combine them. 

When you choose to play live dealer games at BetMGM, you’re getting the best of that kind of gambling experience.

The Best Live Dealer Games Available at BetMGM

All the best live dealer games have one thing in common; you’ll find them at BetMGM. BetMGM’s massive menu of such games includes the expected and the unexpected, casual games and high-stakes affairs, and creative titles you won’t find anywhere else.

For many players, their exploration of BetMGM live dealer games selection begins with some of the most popular table games.

Live Dealer Blackjack

Live dealer blackjack is a fantastic way to try your luck at a few hands of this casino classic. If you’re unsure which format fits your style best, it helps to explore the differences between live and online blackjack to make an informed choice. BetMGM offers both standard versions and innovative variants in the live dealer format.

For example, Power Blackjack removes the 9s and 10s from the deck while giving players interesting side bet options. Meanwhile, VIP Blackjack is a more traditional game with higher bet limits.

Blackjack is far from the only game for which BetMGM offers myriad live dealer choices. Another player-favorite card game is also available.

Live Dealer Baccarat

When you play live dealer baccarat at BetMGM, you aren’t just trying your luck at this iconic card game. You’re also experiencing the latest in baccarat game development.

For example, BetMGM is home to First Person Baccarat, which allows players to switch between live dealer and RNG formats easily. Speed Baccarat is another live title that has rapid-fire action.

If card games aren’t your thing, you have many more options. This includes the most popular wheel-based game in casino history.

Live Dealer Roulette

Live roulette is a great option for players of all experience levels and betting preferences. You’ll find a wide variety of roulette titles at BetMGM.

Player favorites include Lightning Roulette and Live American Roulette. Black & Yellow Roulette and European Roulette Pro can provide changes of pace too.

If you thought that live dealer games are limited to traditional table games, you’d be mistaken. The creative minds at BetMGM have expanded the horizons of live dealer games.

Live Dealer Slots

One of the most innovative formats of live dealer play is live dealer slots. These games take the simplicity of slot games and elevate it with a live aspect.

Instead of spinning reels on your screen, there is a live dealer who operates a wheel. It’s a play on roulette that incorporates the symbol-based gameplay of slots.

The great thing about live dealer slots is that they incorporate a limited social element. The same applies to another category of live dealer games.

Live Dealer Craps

Live dealer craps bring much of the excitement of a live craps table to you through the amazing platform that BetMGM has built out for these games. The best thing about playing craps this way is you can take advantage of the technology to assist your bet-making.

In BetMGM’s Craps, for example, you can call up game history to see what numbers have been hitting at any time. You can also save your favorite bets and track their performance easily. 

All the while, you’re enjoying the most realistic craps experience you can get online. BetMGM’s selection of live dealer games has more in store.

Unique Live Dealer Games You Should Try

With BetMGM, the possibilities for live dealer games are seemingly endless. BetMGM’s staff have worked with software development partners to create some unique titles to offer players novel experiences.

For example, BetMGM offers private live-dealer blackjack tables for those who want to arrange an exclusive game. The creativity builds from there with games like Super Sic Bo, a live version of the poker variant.

For players who want to step outside the box, there are games like New York Jets Legends Land. It’s a take on live blackjack that pays homage to some of the franchise’s greats.

BetMGM is also home to some live dealer titles that bring players into a different kind of action. Another genre of games makes players feel like stars. 

Game Shows As Live Dealer Games

Live game shows are the ultimate in making players part of the game. They give players the chance to take on the role of a game show contestant with real cash prizes available at any time.

These titles like Dream Catcher and Football Studio mimic simple but popular game show formats with spinning wheels and playing cards. The settings for these games create a unique environment for an interactive broadcast.

A Live Dealer Casino Game Experience Like No Other

Live dealer casino games give players unique experiences each time due to the random nature of the results and the high quality of the production. BetMGM’s great selection of live dealer games emphasizes the enjoyability of these rare experiences.

What Are Exclusive Live Dealer Games?

Exclusive online casino games are the ultimate in uncommon experiences, as these are versions of the games that you can only find at BetMGM. BetMGM has partnered with Evolution to include its exclusive titles in can’t-miss events like playing blackjack with New York Jets players.

Detroit Lions Blackjack

Players in Michigan can find blackjack tables just for them through the exclusive Detroit Lions Blackjack game. This title is an expertly designed tribute to Lions fans that gives players chances to win big as they share their support.

Philadelphia 76ers First Person Blackjack

Philadelphia 76ers First Person Blackjack is a game specifically for BetMGM players in Pennsylvania who want to put their blackjack experiences in the fast press. With lucrative side bet options like the Perfect Pairs wager, players might be able to win enough to buy some 76ers tickets.

New York Jets Blackjack

New Jersey players get their dedicated live dealer blackjack version as well in New York Jets Blackjack. This game belongs in your starting lineup because of its amazing product quality, focusing each element on the football theme.

Regardless of which of these games you try, there are common strategies that will help you maximize your enjoyment. Observing them will enhance the experience for other players, too.

Tips for Winning in Live Dealer Games

Over decades, experienced players have shared their top live dealer game tips. These pieces of advice have become a kind of playbook for people and begin with player etiquette.

Just like when you’re at a physical casino, politeness in interactions with dealers and players goes a long way to making the experience pleasant for everyone. This includes respecting game timers for not only your plays but others’ as well.

In addition to etiquette and strategy, understanding the common terms used in live casino games can also help new players feel more confident and reduce confusion at the table. 

Other tips are important not just to keep things fun but for responsible gambling as well. As with all types of gaming, you should make sure to set a budget for the money and time you will spend playing live dealer games.

Just as playing responsibly enhances your experience, the continued improvement of technology and the development of new ideas for live dealer games will continue to push the envelope. 

How Live Online Casino Could Change by 2030

Regarding the future of live online casino games, most conversations focus on the incorporation of artificial intelligence and experimentation with augmented reality. Augmented reality is the insertion of virtual elements into otherwise tangible environments.

The rest of the 2020s may see AI take a bigger role in crafting player promotions and recommending new games for players to try. Augmented reality might enable players to get more of a realistic feel, allowing them to interact with virtual chips and other game elements.

BetMGM will always be at the cutting edge of everything related to live dealer games, so the best thing you can do is register at BetMGM. When you do so and make a qualifying deposit, you can check out all the latest with BetMGM’s amazing casino welcome bonus.

BetMGM is home to all the newest live dealer experiences and the best of the classics. The only thing missing is you.

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