Live dealer games have exploded in popularity in recent years. The ability to play classic table games like blackjack, roulette and baccarat with a real human dealer streamed to your device provides a much more social and realistic casino atmosphere compared to playing against a random number generator (RNG).
But traditional RNG-based games still make up the bulk of most online casinos’ game libraries. Their simplicity, speed and variety keep players coming back.
So which is better: the realistic atmosphere of live dealer games on platforms like SkyCrown or the convenience and versatility of traditional online games? We’ll compare them across several factors to help you decide.
Live Gameplay and Experience
The main appeal of live dealer games is the ability to interact with a real human dealer and other players. High-quality video streams make you feel like you’re right there at the table in a real casino.
Many live games allow chatting with the dealer and other players. You can react to hands, congratulate big wins and carry on side conversations that make for a lively social environment.
The pacing better matches a land-based Triple Diamond by IGT Software as well. You place bets and watch the dealer operate real casino equipment at normal speed. This provides more suspense and celebratory moments compared to RNG games rapidly dealing hands.
RNG games skip all the downtime between hands, allowing faster gameplay. But staring at a virtual table lacks the atmosphere and fun that interacting with real people provides.
Game Odds and Fairness
Both live dealer and RNG games at properly licensed sites use certified random number generators to ensure fair odds. No dealer or computer intentionally influences outcomes.
The main difference lies in how hands play out. RNG games follow precisely calculated odds that remain constant over millions of hands. But natural variation means results in live games can differ from expected odds in the short run.
That introduces factors some view as more realistic, while others see it as less predictable. But over an extremely long sample size, live game odds converge with RNG game odds. Either way, the house maintains its mathematical edge.
One area of variation is blackjack. RNG games always follow basic strategy for best odds. But live dealers can make occasional mistakes that shift the odds. Skilled players may capitalize on these rare errors.
Game Variety and Availability
The main limitation of live games is the number of tables a studio can operate. Providers optimize availability during peak hours but can only run so many games at once.
RNG games have no such restrictions. Sites can offer hundreds of slots, video poker variations, specialty games and more. You’ll always find options matching your preferences with plenty of open seats.
Availability also factors into betting limits. RNG games frequently allow bets as low as $0.10 per round. But live games cater more towards higher rollers, with average minimums of $10+ per hand. Maximums also tend to run higher.
So while RNG games better serve casual players and those on a budget, seasoned gamblers may gravitate towards live dealer games to bet more per hand.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Live Dealer Games | Traditional RNG Games |
| Real human dealer and fellow players | Computer dealer and RNG odds |
| Slower, more realistic pacing | Faster hands and continuous play |
| More social, celebratory atmosphere | Solo focused gameplay |
| Limited open seats and availability | Hundreds of open games |
| Higher average betting minimums/maximums | Games for all bankroll sizes |
Which Should You Choose?
Live dealer games provide the closest simulation to a Vegas-style casino atmosphere without leaving your home. The social interactions create a lively gaming session that online slots simply can’t match.
But RNG table and specialty games still dominate for good reason. Their simplicity, speed of play and tremendous variety appeal to all types of players. And you’ll never have to wait for an open seat.
In many cases, it comes down to personal preference. Lower-stakes players on a budget may stick to traditional games. But those seeking a luxury experience will happily pay the premium to play live dealer games.
The good news is you don’t necessarily have to choose at sites offering both. Sprinkling some live casino play into your normal online gaming sessions keeps things fresh. With so many top-tier options available, you really can’t go wrong either way.