Online gaming has been around for a while now, and in recent years, we have seen a significant development in mechanics, graphics, player engagement, and other aspects of the industry. Since poker is one of the most popular gaming options online, it’s natural that we’ve seen plenty of improvements in this area as well.
Live dealer games have become standard for online casinos as many players enjoy the personal touch these games provide. In this article, we’ll go through the main differences of live dealer poker compared to classic online poker games and explain what makes each of them a solid solution for players. If you’re interested in resolving the live dealer vs. online poker debate, keep reading.
The Different Gameplay Styles
If you take part in a live dealer game, you’ll get to experience everything you would in a social casino, but from the comfort of your home. When taking part in these live games, you watch a stream of a real, physical studio, where a dealer shuffles real cards and sets them on a real table. You see the hands being dealt, and sometimes you might even be able to see the other players at the table.
When it comes to standard online poker, the gameplay is all virtual. There is no human touch included, but the gameplay moves quicker. If you don’t care about anything but the action at the table, these games might suit you a bit better. The online poker experience is pretty straightforward and allows you to play at your pace.
The Social Side of Poker: Interactions with Dealers and Players
Most poker players don’t enjoy the game simply for its competitive nature and possible wins. The camaraderie and the social poker interaction are often what attract players, as many friendships have started at the poker table.
The interactive experience offered through live dealer games is likely the most attractive feature of these games. When playing live dealer poker, you can exchange messages with other players at the table and the dealer. This option allows you to discuss the cards on the table or other topics you find amusing.
Standard online poker, however, doesn’t offer the opportunity to discuss the game with the dealer. In some cases, you might be able to communicate with other players, but the conversations are mostly limited. This allows for gaming with no distractions but lacks the interactive nature of live chat poker.
Game Pace: Why Live Dealer Poker Is Slower, but More Immersive
Speed is an important characteristic of any online casino game, so we should consider game speed when discussing live dealer poker and the standard online version.
Live dealer poker is the slower option of the two. Since the dealer manually shuffles and deals the cards while also interacting with the players, it takes a bit more time for one hand to finish. If you prefer longer breaks between hands or more time to think about your next move, live poker is the choice for you.
On the other hand, if you value poker hand speed, the standard online variant is what you should try. The cards are dealt almost instantly, and the hands progress in a much speedier manner, so your efficiency will be off the charts. Fast-paced online poker allows you to focus on the volume of played hands and avoid all other distractions around the table.
Realism and Experience: The Real-World Feel vs. Digital Efficiency
Both of these formats have their advantages, and it’s up to you to determine which option fits your preferences better. For example, live casino poker offers a more realistic poker experience, where you’re surrounded by other players and a dealer. You get to see a dealer work in what resembles a real casino, and all other aspects of the casino environment feel like the real thing. So, if you’re chasing the feeling of a casino visit without actually going anywhere, this option will deliver.
On the other hand, realism isn’t what online poker focuses on. The goal of these games is to provide a digital counterpart to physical casino gaming. Online poker games aim to provide a fast-paced gaming experience that anyone can understand, and don’t focus on the secondary aspects of physical casinos. The software is there to provide everything game-related, and your only job is to play your hand.
Key Similarities Between Live Dealer Poker and Standard Online Poker
No matter how many differences these two game types may have, they are still both variants of poker. Of course, live dealer poker and standard online poker still have plenty in common. Here are the similarities:
- Skill and Strategy: No matter which type of poker you play, you’ll still be playing poker. And we know that this game requires skill and strategy for success. So, don’t forget you’ll have to focus while playing if you wish to win.
- Convenience: Online gaming has brought casinos anywhere with an internet connection, so finding a way to join a poker game has become very straightforward. Both of these options are very convenient for players and allow poker playing at any time and anywhere.
- Variety of Games: Nowadays, so many different poker games exist. At various online casinos, you’ll be able to find multiple different poker variants, both in live and standard form.
Conclusion
In the end, the choice between live dealer poker and digital online poker games is left to you. Now, you’re aware of all the similarities and differences, so you understand what each game type brings to the table. Figure out what your preferences are and give online poker and live dealer poker a shot at Unibet UK.
