With the popularity of online gambling on the rise over the last two decades, it was only a matter of time before technology caught up and met the full potential of online gaming. Live dealer poker is a form of online poker in which the dealer connects with players via webcam and audio stream. Players can see the cards being dealt live and providing a more sociable and realistic experience similar to that of a real-life casino. For players who are untrusting of RNG games, this was finally a call to join the online gaming frenzy.
Getting Started
The only requirements for playing live poker are that you have either a laptop, tablet, or phone to play on, as well as a stable high-speed internet connection. With live dealers, online poker hardly differs from playing an actual game at a land-based casino. The controls are intuitive, and you can easily perform everything you would normally do in a game, as well as control your bet sizes. You can communicate with the dealer via chat regarding any concerns or questions, and they’ll either respond in the same way or through the audio stream.
First, you need to register on a regulated online casino that provides live poker from one of the various live casino providers, such as Evolution. Evolution provides the best variety of live poker variations, as well as titles not yet offered by any other providers including Casino Hold’em, Jumbo 7 Jackpot Side Bet, 2 Hand Casino Hold’em, Side Bet City, Ultimate Texas Hold’em and Three Card Poker to name a few.
Once you’ve signed up, all you need to do is locate the live poker section and choose your variation. Next, you’ll pick a table and seat, and the dealer will take it from there! Be sure to check out some guides for the different variations before you play and formulate a solid strategy.
See below for an example of one variation:
How to Play Texas Hold’em Bonus Poker
This is a quick guide for one variation you might come across. This variation has only been around for a few months, with the only provider being Evolution.
To start, you must place an ante bet, and have the choice to make side bets on the bonus and first five jackpots. The play unfolds as a normal Texas Hold’em game. If the dealer wins, you lose all bets made except bonus bets if applicable, and if you win you make even money on all the bets you made except the ante. The ante pays even money on a straight or higher, otherwise you push. The bonus bet then pays out a ratio based on your hand, the highest of which is 1000:1 for both the player and dealer. The First Five Jackpot pays out set amounts based on your final hand, while a royal flush earns you a progressive jackpot which fluctuates.
With enticing bonuses like offers in real money blackjack, the future is looking glorious for the growth of live dealer poker!