Fans of online roulette and blackjack have been treated to exciting developments in recent years, and we’re proud to be a part of that at Virgin Games.

Not too long ago, automated games were the default for casino-regulars eager to play online. But, no more. If you’re already a member here, you'll be aware that Live Casino games are part of our (ample) offering. 

Following on the heels of traditional online games, Live Casino options are only getting better. Today, there are more tables available than ever, better ways to interact with fellow players, and stunning graphics. You can practically replicate the feeling of a traditional casino when you enter a Live Casino environment. 

But if you're new to this world, you may be asking how Live Casino and automated Online Casino games differ.  Read our guide below to understand how the two options compare.

How Live Casino Games Work 

What Is Live Casino?

Big on brick-and-mortar casinos? Then we’ve got an inkling that Live Casino is the game for you. They effectively recreate the feel you would get in any real-life casino, but from the comfort of your own home, or wherever you choose to play your online games.

And with Live Casino games come live dealers – that's right, real-life people that control the games. Our dealers are filmed and streamed live from a studio, providing you with an authentic online gaming experience. A number of different dealers will be in charge of a certain table throughout the day, and if you become a regular visitor to a specific game, you'll get to know your favourite dealers.

Classics such as Live Roulette and Live Blackjack, in addition to popular table games like Live Baccarat, are for the taking here.

How Is Live Casino Different from Online Casino Games?

Both environments have the same classic games available to get stuck into, yet their set-up is very different.

For example, when you play in an Online Casino, you have full control of every aspect of your game. You can bet on red or black in roulette and spin the wheel when you are ready, or deal the next blackjack hand with the push of a button. Live Casino games require you to wait until a timer has expired for the next round to begin, giving all of the players at the table the chance to place their wager, so you will have to hold fire if you’re a faster player.

In Live Casino, meanwhile, there is a greater emphasis on the social element of gaming. While all our games come with a chat function, Live Casino chat lets you talk directly to other players in the same game with you. Here, you can interact with the other users and the dealer, just as you would in a brick-and-mortar casino.

Take some time to play a selection of our automated roulette and blackjack games after you’ve visited our Live Casino, and you’ll soon get a flavour of which is for you.

Why Are Live Casinos So Popular?

As the name gives away, the live dealer element to these real-time games is a big factor in explaining their popularity. We're talking an immersive experience, in addition to high-definition gameplay and audio. If you’re competitive – and if you’re playing blackjack, you kind of have to be – then you’ll love going head-to-head with the dealer, just as you would if you were betting in a real-life casino.

Then there's the social element, as touched on above. Hit up the live chat, and interact with other players on your table as you play.

In contrast to the standard online environment, live games do not use Random Number Generator (RNG) software to decide the outcomes. This means that there is no Return to Player (RTP) rate affecting payouts or results, as you will find in our online blackjack and roulette games. Live dealer game outcomes are complete chance, which many players prefer.

Is Live Casino Actually Live?

That's right; every single game in our Live Casino is broadcast in real-time, otherwise we'd have to think of a better name... 

Our authentic Live Casino experience allows you to play any of our blackjack games or spin the roulette wheel at any time, as they are all available 24/7, just as you would find if you were making your way into a brick and mortar venue.

Online Casino Games – The Basics 

What Is Online Casino?

Think all your favourite casino games, but in a handy digital format. Unlike Live Casino, Online Casino refers to games that are operated using Random Number Generator (RNG) software. Online Casino games are great for solo game play, as you aren't playing against other players, and there is no live dealer running the gameplay. 

What Are the Basic Types of Casino Games?

Naturally, blackjack and roulette both feature prominently here. While there is a set timer to place your bets in any live gaming, you can play the online version at your own pace. This allows you to multitask while placing your bets on the roulette table, or deciding to hit or stand on your next blackjack card.

Alongside the blackjack and roulette offerings, most online casinos offer a range of classic games for traditional players. At Virgin Games, you can play Nice Dice and Keno, in addition to a number of other table games that offer big chances to win.

We also have a number of card games available on-site, including Caribbean Stud Poker Progressive, with an exciting jackpot prize up for grabs if you land a Royal Flush after the bonus bet has been activated. Play the casino favourite Hi-Lo from just 20p and you could put together a string of successive wins.

Is Live Casino or Online Casino right for me?

As you can see, there are several notable differences between the games you would find in an Online Casino compared to those that are managed by live dealers.

It all comes down to the type of player that you are - if you enjoy the more sociable environment that is created across our live casino titles, whether that’s blackjack, roulette or a table game, then make the most of the chat function, pull up a seat at our virtual tables, and place your bets. If you prefer to use smaller stakes, and wish to play at a different pace to those required to suit live dealers and live games, then our Online Casino is the perfect place for you.

Sign up today and you can receive a casino bonus! As soon as you’ve deposited and played with £10, we’ll give you 30 free spins to use on our online slot game Double Bubble*.

Need some tips on how slot machines work before you register with us? Head to our blog page to find information about slots bonus rounds, general slot terms and more.