Best Live Casino Platforms – UK Guide
Live casino games have emerged in the iGaming world as a top favourite gaming category in online casinos. Take part in the fun and learn more about bonuses for live games, the best live casino UK platforms, and more.
Compete with real dealers and socialise with fellow players while enjoying a game of poker or blackjack today by joining a Casino Legends-approved live casino online platform.
Live Casinos? What are They?
Online platforms with live casino games have become increasingly popular among fans of traditional table and card games in the UK. These platforms offer a unique and immersive gaming experience by allowing you to interact with real-life dealers and other participants in real-time.
Unlike traditional casino games that rely on random number generators, live casino online games stream from professional studios, providing a more authentic gambling atmosphere. Simply put, you can play your favourite table game or partake in a game show while streaming the live broadcast to witness the action in real time.
The concept of live casino games started in the early 2000s when online gambling operators sought to bridge the gap between virtual and land-based casinos. From the moment live casino games came into play, it opened new possibilities for players to engage in real-time from the comfort of their homes.
For a safe and entertaining immersive gambling experience, see our selection of the best online casinos that provide live casino and real dealer gaming options to players in the UK.
The Inner Workings of Live Casino Games
Online live casinos have been revolutionized by game providers who are constantly striving to provide the most immersive experience possible through high-end streaming technology, but how do they work?
The Immersive Experience
You can join live gaming sessions from the best online live casinos and witness the casino dealer shuffling the cards, spinning the roulette wheel, and dealing out hands, all in real-time. This adds an extra layer of authenticity to the gaming experience.
*Casino Legends Tip – Are you a fan of poker? Get the ultimate live immersive experience by joining a live satellite tournament from Unibet for a chance to win a seat in a big buy-in tournament or live event.*
Dedicated Sets – Live Studios
Live casino games are hosed in state-of-the-art studios specially designed to replicate the ambience of a luxurious casino or even better, to provide a unique experience not possible through a land-based casino. These studios are equipped with multiple cameras and other technological elements.
*Casino Legends Tip – For an added twist of fun, try live gameshows such as Crazy Time or Snakes and Ladders for a unique set design*
Real Dealers and Croupiers
Live casino online games provide participating players with the presence of professional dealers who oversee the gameplay, deal cards, and carry out gameplay actions. This ensures the highest standards of professionalism and experience, creating a welcoming and professional environment.
*Interesting Fact – Some casino games include both real hosts and NPCs (non-player characters) through AI in Metaverse casino development. This can be seen with Gonzo’s Treasure Map Live by Evolution Gaming.*
Gameplay and Betting
Gameplay and betting options in live casino games different with each category of game and variation of the gaming category you choose to play. Generally, with live casino games players make use of a live chat function to communicate with the dealer instead of simply selecting buttons to ‘hit’, ‘bet’, ‘fold’ etc.
*Casino Legends Tip – Always ensure you know the rules and bet options of the game before joining in on a live session*
Randomness and Fairness
To ensure fairness, transparency, and a real-immersive experience, live casino games do not rely on random number generators to determine game outcomes. Instead, the use of physical casino equipment and real dealers are present.
*Enjoy live casino games responsibly by making use of responsible gambling tools from live casinos and by keeping a strict hold on your bankroll. *
Technology Involved in Live Casino Gaming
Various cutting-edge technologies enhance the overall immersive gaming experience from both the studio and the player’s side. With these technological elements, online gambling has reached new levels in interactive gaming.
Live Casino Technology
- Immersive Roulette with Multi-Camera Angles
Immersive live roulette features multi-camera angels to provide players with an unprecedented view of all gameplay actions. This technology allows players to witness the spinning of the wheel from multiple perspectives. - Squeeze Technology in Baccarat
In live baccarat, gameplay has been elevated to new heights with squeeze technology which enables players to experience the anticipation of revealing the cards once bets have been placed. This can be seen with Baccarat Squeeze by Evolution Gaming, which includes more than fifteen high-definition cameras to ensure players have close-up views of the card-reveal and gameplay actions. - Live Casino Hold’em with Real-time Statistics:
Real-time statistics in live casino Hold’em and other poker games provide instant access to key metrics and data of the game. Players can thus make informed choices, adding a new dimension of skill and strategy to poker. - AI and Machine learning
AI and machine learning provide online live casinos a chance to adapt to individual player preferences in games and create a tailored experience that is centred around the diverse needs of the player base. These algorithms drive advancements in game optimizations and player engagement. - Optical Character Recognition Technology
Optical character recognition (OCR) makes it easier to identify cards and symbols that are present in live casino games and assists in showcasing text commands to visual gameplay actions. - CamerasMuli angel cameras are placed in the dedicated studios to provide participating players with a chance to experience a full game experience by witnessing every action by the dealer and fellow players.
Technology for 4K Ultra HD Streaming
- Monitors and Game Control Unit
Players can look forward to an immersive experience if they have monitors and game control units (wireless keyboard and touchpad). The integration of monitors and control units provides a seamless and responsive gaming interface for interaction in the live casino environment. - Audio and Chat Technologies
Standard audio equipment and wireless typing devices or voice-to-text devices can improve the player’s immersive gaming experience. However, this is not a requirement for being able to enjoy live casino games. - Augmented reality / VR set
Augmented reality and virtual reality casino games have long been the focal point for providers to strive to expand on what they can offer in terms of ‘immersive’ gaming. By including AR and VR sets into your gaming experience you can play virtual reality casino games such as Gonzo’s Treasure Hunt from Evolution Gaming.
Casino Legends Criteria for Best Live Casino UK Approval
Casino Legends prides itself on helping UK players find the best live casino platforms. Our criteria check into live casino UK platforms include game variety, mobile optimization, security, licensing, and more. Find more details on how we approve live casino platforms below.
Game Variety
Live casinos present players with a variety of games to choose from. Whether you are looking for live blackjack, poker, baccarat, or live games, Casino Legends will guide you to the right platform with different variations of each game.
Device Compatibility
Casino Legends ensures that the live online casino is responsive on both desktop and mobile devices and will stipulate whether the casino has an app available for live casino games.
Available Languages
We understand the importance of playing in your language. Luckily many providers including Evolution Gaming provide games with multi-language settings. It is however advised for players to first look into the available languages from each game before getting started.
Security and Licensing
Every country and jurisdiction has its own regulatory authority which licenses a platform for eligibility to provide gambling services. All live casino UK platforms approved by Casino Legends are licensed and regulated by the UKGC (United Kingdom Gambling Commission).
RTP and RNGS
The transparency of an online live casino’s return top player and random number generator is crucial as it displays the casino’s commitment to fairness. Most fairness testing for live casino UK platforms is carried out by ECOGRA.
Bonus Availability
Live casino games may not always be eligible to contribute to wager requirements in match-deposit-based bonuses. Yet, many live casino platforms offer promotions for entrance into live tournaments and satellite events. Casino Legends ensures that our approved platforms present a variety of options bonuses and promotions.
Streaming Quality
Live casino games involve real-time streaming of the game, which makes the quality of the cream vital before jumping in to play a live poker or blackjack session. Casino Legends ensures quality streaming from our approved live casino UK platforms.
Payouts and Banking
Casino Legends ensures that all approved platforms have a proven payout history and present trusted and reliable banking methods for deposits and withdrawals.
Experience live immersive gaming by choosing one of the best online casinos approved by Casino Legends.
Why Choose Live Casino Games?
Live online casino games provide players with a more immersive gameplay experience that could spark new interest in already entertaining table and card games. Together with convenience, real-time interaction, variety, and special incentives, live casinos provide true entertainment.
- A unique blend of traditional and modern gaming elements
Although traditional casino games such as video poker present their fair share of entertainment, they do limit players. Through live casino games, players can explore stock trading through Stock Market Live, battle it out for football fixtures in Football Studio, and more. - Immersion and social interaction
Live casino games provide an unparalleled social experience which allows players to engage with the live dealer as well as with participating players. This creates a new level of gambling entertainment for fans of traditional and modern forms of entertainment. - Widely available
Live casino games can be accessed from the majority of online casinos that are respected and licensed by the UKGC, there is no need to access a live-specific casino. - More transparent and fair gameplay
Due to live casino games not being operated through the use of a Random Number Generator (RNG) fairness and payout frequency are more transparent. Players can get a real sense of the game results through multi-angle camera views such as with squeeze technology in baccarat.
Live VS Video Format Games
Live casino games possess many differences in terms of functions, overall gameplay, variety, etc. The table below provides a narrowed-down overview of the main differences between live and video-format casino games.
Live Dealer
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Unique blend of traditional and modern games -
Social elements provide an immersive feel for casino players
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Widelay available on reputable online casino sites and apps
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No reliance on RNG technology – real live gameplay results
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Live tournaments available
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Generally doesn’t contribute to wagering requirements
Video / First Person Format
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True to the standard of the game – uncomplicated rules and simple design
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Free / Demo modes widely available
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Can be played at your own pace
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Wider selection of games to choose from
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No tournaments or events to participate in
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No social element
Guide on How to Play Live Casino Games
Playing your favourite traditional casino games in real-dealer variations and exploring new live game shows are easy. Simply follow our step-by-step guide on how to sign up at the best live casino UK platforms, find the perfect bonus, and more.
- Step 1 – Choose one of our recommended best online live casinos
Choose from any of our Casino Legends’ best online casinos available to UK players. Before signing up to a casino it is advised to consider their available games, banking methods, and bonuses.
Tip on choosing a casino – Read our Casino Legends reviews for a thorough overview of what to expect from the best live casino UK platforms. - Step 2 – Register an account
After choosing one of our best live casino recommendations you can get started by signing up as a member and getting your account verified through the live dealer casino’s KYC process.
Tip for registering with a live dealer casino – Ensure you are of legal age (18+), possess an identification document, and reside in the UK. This will ensure a successful sign-up process. - Step 3 – Decide on a bonus
Our Casino Legends approved live casino UK platforms provide their members with helpful bonuses to kickstart their gaming journey. Choose your welcome bonus carefully in terms of wagering requirements and other terms.
Tip on choosing a bonus – Some welcome bonuses that do not include ‘bonus money’ are not useable with live games. Consider a deposit match welcome offer for live casino games. - Step 4 – Make a qualifying deposit
Deposit the minimum requirement for deposits in the casino’s terms and conditions through your preferred deposit method and ensure that you will be able to use the method for withdrawals at a later stage.
Tip for making a successful deposit – Some welcome bonuses may require a specific payment method. Check the bonus terms before making a deposit. - Step 5 – Choose one of the best live casino games recommended by Casino Legends
Choose your preferred live game variation between baccarat, poker, blackjack, and baccarat, or explore a new live game show.
Tips for choosing a game – Live games do not have demo/free variations/. If you are not experienced with table or card games, first try a video format variation to practice. - Step 6 – Withdraw your winnings
Withdraw your winnings using the same payment method as your deposit. Ensure that you are requesting a withdrawal amount within the minimum and maximum limits of the casino.
Tips for withdrawing – Ensure that you have completed bonus wagering requirements before attempting to withdraw, as you may lose your winnings
Best Online Live Casino Games: Types of Real Dealer Games
Live casino games include some of the most popular casino game categories including roulette, blackjack, poker, baccarat, dice, and more. The games discussed below are among the most popular options from online platforms and provide a variety of different variations.
Roulette
The best online live casinos present their players with a variety of roulette games including European, American, and French roulette. This classic traditional casino game is a stable option among online gamblers especially for live play.
Quick play guide – Simply place your bet on where you think the ball will land and wait in anticipation for the end result. Always consider the different bet types with their own specified odds before making a bet.
Learn more with our Casino Legends Live Roulette guide.
Blackjack
Live blackjack stands as another staple game for players looking to try live gambling games. Blackjack can be played in different variations including European, Atlantic City, pontoon, Spanish 21, switch and more.
Quick play guide – The goal of blackjack is to beat the dealer by having a hand closer to 21 than the dealer’s hand. After you receive your additional hand, you can hit(for additional cards) or stand (stick with your hand).
Read our blackjack guide to learn more about gameplay, odds, bets, and the best blackjack casinos.\
Poker
Live poker can be found in a variety of variations including Texas Hold’em, Omaha, seven card stud, razz, and more. This is the perfect gaming option for fans of video poker to experience real dealer games.
Quick play guide – In live poker, you will get dealt 2 cards face down. These cards will be followed by 5 additional cards faced up. You need to then make the best possible 5-card hand using the community cards.
Find out more about this intriguing and highly strategic game by reading our live poker guide.
Baccarat
Baccarat is one of the most elegant and iconic casino games and is now even more popular with live dealer casinos. Baccarat also comes in a different variation including chemin de fer, punto banco, baccarat squeeze, and mini-baccarat.
Quick play guide – In baccarat, you simply bet on the outcome of the game. Bet on who will have the highest numerical value hand of cards among the casino dealer or player or bet on a tie.
Best Live Casino Game Shows – Unique Immersive Games
Live casino game shows have taken the online gambling world by storm by offering an exciting and immersive experience for players. These games are hosted by presenters who are experts in the hosted game to bring the best possible experience.
One of the key attractions of live casino game shows is the interactive nature of the experience as players contribute to gameplay actions. The games found in live game show categories include newly revamped classics such as Snakes and Ladders and Monopoly as well as traditional games, sports, and industries.
Top 5 Gameshows to Participate in
Crazy Time
Theme – Money Wheel
Provider – Evolution Gaming
RTP – 95.5%
Where to Play – Unibet
Majestic Wheelshow
Theme – Wheel of Fortune
Provider – OnAir
RTP – 92.08%
Where to Play – 32Red
Monopoly Big Baller Live
Theme – Monopoly Board Game
Provider – Evolution Gaming
RTP – 96.1%
Where to Play – All British Casino
Stock Market Live
Theme – Stock Exchange
Provider – Evolution Gaming
RTP – 99%
Where to Play – 32Red
Football Studio Live
Theme – Football
Provider – Evolution Gaming
RTP – 89.64%
Where to Play – Unibet
Sweet Bonanza Candyland
Theme – Candyland
Provider – Pragmatic Play
RTP – 96.48%
Where to Play – MrQ
Gonzo’s Treasure Map
Theme – Gonzo’s Quest Slot
Provider – Evolution Gaming
RTP – 95.62%
Where to Play – MrQ
Live Casino Bonus Offers and Promotions
Live casino bonuses are no different from standard casino bonuses, except in circumstances where poker or blackjack tournament seats are up for grabs and in some cases roulette drops. If you are ready to explore our top suggested live games, be sure to opt for the following bonuses for the ultimate kickstart in the game.
Welcome Bonus
Welcome offers generally include a match percentage where you can maximize your ‘bonus money’ with your deposit amount (+- minimum £10). In some cases, the match is also paired with free spins.
Get a Casino Legends Approved Welcome Offer – 32Red incREDible 150% Match Bonus Up to £150
Welcome Bonus Tip – In some cases live casino games may not contribute much to wagering requirements, and in some cases not at all. Be sure to read the welcome bonus terms before opting in.
Reload Bonus
Reload bonuses simply provide existing members with bonus money after making new deposits into their real money accounts or by playing with real money. This can be through free spins, bonus money, or other incentives when depositing the minimum deposit amount.
Get a Casino Legends Approved Reload Bonus – £12,000 Prize Pool Unibet Live Casino Cash Drops with Pragmatic Play Live Games
Cashback Bonus
Cashback bonuses provide players with a percentage of their real money lost during gameplay back into their casino accounts. Generally, cashback will have a percentage tied to it. Cashback offers do in most cases have a maximum threshold.
Get a Casino Legends Approved Cashback Deal – Always Get 10% Cashback with All British Casino
No Deposit Bonus
No-deposit bonuses generally provide incentives without the requirement of a deposit for eligibility. Bonus credit may be provided in the form of free spins, bonus money, live event entrance, etc. No deposit bonuses are not widely available.
Free Spins
Free spins simply provide you with a number of free spins on selected slot games. Although free spins are not generally associated with table games or their live variations, you may be able to score free spins by participating in live or video-format table games.
Get a Casino Legends Approved Free Spins bonus – MrQ Daily Roulette Drop with Free Spins
For more thorough overviews of bonuses available for casino games and today updated on all the latest bonuses and promotions from the best UK casinos, follow our bonus guides.
Live Casino Banking Section
By playing live casino games you are able to use the same banking methods presented by the casino for all withdrawals and deposits. This guarantees seamless payments with zero additional fees incurred y the casino, safe transactions, and quick access to payment portals.
The following banking options are available from the majority of live casino UK sites and are considered among the best live casino payment methods.
- E-Wallets
E-Wallets are considered one of the most popular methods due to their ease of use in transactions for both deposits and withdrawals, immediate deposit availability, and near-instant withdrawals. - Debit Cards
The debit card option is yet again a payment method that is easily accessible and is generally supported for both Mastercard and Visa in the UK. Deposits are generally instantly available while withdrawals can take between 1 – 3 business days - Prepaid Cards
Prepaid cards such as paysafecard are considered alternative options to e-wallet and debit cards as withdrawals are generally not possible to prepaid cards. Choosing a prepaid card as your deposit method will result in an additional payment method having to be used for withdrawing your winnings. - Pay by Phone
Although not as popular, casinos still provide Pay By Phone as a viable option for deposits at casinos including MrQ. As with prepaid cards, only deposits are available for payment by phone.
Best Live Casino Game Providers
With the iGaming industry booming with live casino games, more providers are becoming relevant with live variations of table games, game shows, and more. For the best possible live dealer casino experience Casino Legends recommended the most popular providers listed below. Be sure to try our top 3 recommended games from each provider of live casino games for a snippet into what to expect from their game’s selection.
Evolution Gaming Group
Evolution Gaming is at the forefront of innovation in live casino games and supplies the majority of live dealer games found in online casinos. Founded in 2006 they have steadily grown as a leading provider in iGaming supplying not only live games but also first-person traditional games and slots.
Top 3 Evolution Gaming Live Games
- Texas Hold’em Poker Live
- Lightning Roulette Live
- Monopoly
Playtech
Playtech was founded in 1999 and has remained a prominent live casino games provider in the iGaming industry. With constant innovations in live game shows and live dealer table games, Playtech live games can be found on the most popular UK casino platforms.
Top 3 Playtech Live Games
- Mega Fire Blaze Roulette
- Quantum Blackjack
- Adventures Beyond Wonderland
Authentic Gaming
Authentic Gaming is owned by Light and Wonder, who is another primetime provider of casino games. Founded in 2015, the company is considered to be one of the youngest live dealer game providers with such a strong presence in iGaming.
Top 3 Authentic Gaming Games
- 7s on Fire
- 24/7 Roulette
- XL Roulette
Pragmatic Play
Next to Evolution Gaming, Pragmatic Play stands as the closest leader in live gaming. With tons of games focused on game shows, live table games, and Wheel of Fortunes, Pragmatic Play leads as one of the most prominent live gaming providers supplying top online casinos in the UK.
Top 3 Pragmatic Play Live Games
- Mega Roulette
- Mega Wheel
- Blackjack
FAQ
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Are bonuses for live games similar to offers for standard table and card games?
Most bonuses available for video format table games are also available for live table and card games as well as game shows. Bonuses generally not included in live casino promotions include free spins and no-deposit bonuses. Live games are however eligible with exciting and unique offers from casinos such as Unibet and 32Red.
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Can I deposit real money to play live games?
No matter what type of game you play, all casino games including slots, tables, cards, live, or crash, can be played by making deposits with accepted payment methods. If you prefer a specific payment method, be sure to check the cashier section of the casino first. Simply sign up, choose your deposit method, make the payment, and start playing.
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Why are live casinos so popular?
Live casino games offer a completely different experience from traditional online casino games through immersive and social gameplay. Real dealers and fellow players create a social gambling phenomenon that has truly created a new wave of gambling entertainment.
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What casino provider has the best live casino games?
Evolution Gaming stands out as one of the best live casino providers in iGaming. The provider has won numerous awards for theory innovations, has 700+ games, and owns numerous top-tier providers including NetEnt, Big Time Gaming, Nolimit City, and others. Some of their most popular titles include Gonzo’s Treasure Map, Lightning Roulette, and Monopoly Live.
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Why should I play live casino games?
Live casino games provide the ultimate immersive expense in casino gaming. Players looking to experience the excitement and atmosphere of a real land-based casino can expect to reach a new level of excitement through live games. Live games also present unique advantages such as access to live poker events.
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Can you win real money with the best online live casino games?
Yes. Among the best online live casino games can be played for real money wins. Many online casinos present players with a chance to participate in drop-and-win promotional events where large prize pools are up for grabs. With live games generally not being eligible for wagering contributions, real money is the best way to play live games.