Live casino etiquette: The unspoken rules of live dealer games

The launch of various online casinos in 1994 has offered gamblers maximum convenience. With a stable internet connection and an electronic device, betting on table games and spinning the reels can be done within the comfort of their homes. Gone are the days when they had to follow dress codes, travel for hours or stand in long lines to buy chips. However, this has also become a double-edged sword. Online players forget that casino etiquette rules and basic principles still exist, often putting themselves in embarrassing situations.

This is especially true in live dealer games where players will interact with dealers and their opponents. Most gamblers are way too focused on familiarising strategies and betting options that they forgot a basic human principle: decency. They bombard the chatbox with insults, disrespect live dealers and get themselves intoxicated before playing. 

Whether you’re a seasoned or novice gambler, following gambling etiquette rules can make your online casino experience smoother. Read more below to help you become a decent gambler here at Livecasino.io!

Etiquette tips on how to become a decent online gambler

Before playing slot games and sweetening the pot on poker tables, learn about these etiquette rules first:

Become familiar with the rules of the game

Some players make the rookie mistake of starting their casino adventures without knowing the rules of their preferred live dealer games. They automatically assume that just because live dealers are accommodating and lively, they are ready to answer multiple questions at once. 

However, this is not entirely true. It's not the dealer's job to become anyone's teacher or coach. Rather, they supervise the game and make sure no one rigs the rounds. If you keep asking questions on how to split your cards in blackjack, you will disrupt everyone’s game sessions and the strict time schedules. 

You can try checking the settings tab of a live dealer title to find the rules, tips and betting options exclusive to it. If you’re new to a game, play a free version or single-player ones to avoid risking your bankroll as you improve your understanding of the rules. 

Aside from doing everyone a favour, you avoid the reputation of being a complete amateur and clueless about what you’re doing. This isn’t to say that you should master the ins and outs of table games. Carrying just the right amount of knowledge will help you form your own strategies in the long run.

Don’t drink and play

Drinking and gambling go together like cookies and milk. However, if you go beyond your limitations and get incredibly drunk before playing, you’re bound to make irrational choices. This might encourage you to place outrageous bets you can’t afford, say insults you don’t mean, and worse, get permanently banned from playing in your favourite online casino. 

No one wants to wake up with an almost empty bank account and decisions that can’t be undone, so take it easy with the booze. 

Try not to get into arguments

There’s no denying that losing a round is insanely frustrating, especially when you’ve placed a huge wager. Although these games should be entertaining and friendly, it’s hard to contain your emotions when the odds are stacked against you. You’ve followed every strategy, played your cards right and changed your tactics for a better outcome, so why are you falling short?

When you find yourself in this situation, don’t lash out at your opponents and start baseless arguments just to save face. Don’t verbally attack the dealers because they are simply doing the job and they don’t control the results of the game. This goes the same with your opponents. Refrain from arguing or accusing them of rigging the game if you practically have no evidence to show. 

Avoid sharing sensitive information

One thing that makes online casinos feel like you’re playing in traditional ones is the live chat feature. You get the chance to interact with others in real-time, make potential friends and learn about each other’s strategies when playing your cards, among other things. 

However, some players forget their boundaries. They share their private details such as names, birthdays, addresses and even bank accounts, often putting their identity at risk. If you make this mistake, you become a target of cybercriminals and identity thieves lurking in the shadows. 

You mustn’t ask other players to do the same. Don’t ask anyone about their information even if it’s out of good intentions. Others may assume that you’re planning to do something malicious with their details and report you to the management. This is especially true when you’re playing in crypto-casinos where anonymity and security are prioritised. 

Know your limits in the chatroom

It’s fun talking with other players in the chatroom and messing around once you get comfortable with each other’s presence. It provides a dose of socialisation into the online gambling scene, helping players connect no matter where they are. You can tell friendly jokes to lighten the mood, befriend new players at the table and discuss lighthearted topics for a better atmosphere.

Unfortunately, this might make you forget that there are lines you should never cross. Placing bets while curled up on your sofa might make you see the dealer and your opponents as mere virtual characters. Always remind yourself that they are humans with emotions and issues as well. 

For instance, avoid talking about political and religious beliefs. You don’t want to spend half of your time bickering with another player who gets to be the next president, or say mean things about their religions that will truly offend them. Additionally, keep in mind that the chatbox is monitored 24/7. Online casinos have every right to expel you from their platforms if you show any signs of inappropriate behaviour, so make sure to tread carefully.

You have the option to mute annoying players when they’re being disruptive. Feel free to also congratulate them when they win the pot during a round!

Don’t intentionally slow down the game

For some reason, some gamblers excessively slow down the game for their benefit. This isn’t recommended at all. Understandably, you want to take your time before making a move, but abusing the privileges given to you such as the time limit and a time bank doesn’t give you the right to keep things on edge. 

For example, you decide to enter a poker session. How do you practice proper poker etiquette? You might take some time to balance your bluffs and assess your hand before taking action, which is a part of the game. However, if you’re well aware that your hand would require you to fold, do it as soon as possible. It will keep the original pace of the game and adhere to the given time!

Respect the dealers

No matter what live dealer game you’re playing, never forget to respect the live dealers. Remember that even if their job is to prioritise your gambling experience, it’s important to act decently towards them. Don’t teach them how to do their jobs properly because they are trained professionals even if you’re already a seasoned player. 

Additionally, bear in mind that flirting with the dealers is completely unacceptable. It’s easy to think they’re showing interest in you because their work requires them to be entertaining, friendly and nice to keep the players comfortable. Also, avoid calling them endearments like ‘babe’ or ‘sweetheart’ because you’d likely make them feel uneasy. 

Gambling should not be your outlet

When you’re going through a tough time, it’s normal to find a coping mechanism to help you get by. If you’re going through a painful situation, you might find yourself gambling for days on end just to keep your worries at bay. This is sometimes called distraction, which is not a great path to take when you’re not in the right state of mind. 

Gambling may give you that momentary escape you’re looking for, but it will not make things any better for you in the long run. When you’re in a funk when playing table games, your decision-making isn’t at its best state, compromising everyone’s gameplay in the process. 

Treat online casinos as a mere form of entertainment. That way, you’re less likely to get aggressive and emotional when taking a bad beat. 

Prepare your budget

Various live dealer titles target a specific audience. You’d notice that some games attract high-rollers, while others are catered for novice players with a regular budget. Ensure that when you choose a live dealer game to play, you’re ready to spend a specific amount of money once you take a seat.

Remember, you shouldn’t take someone else’s place in a game where you can’t play because you have little to no budget. Before visiting an online casino, make sure that you’ve already explored the titles to help you choose something that fits your bankroll.

This is especially true in fast-paced live roulette titles. Since you are only given a few seconds to place a specific bet, you have to act quickly to avoid missing your chance. Once the dealer announces that the betting time has ended, you won’t be able to wager within the round. 

Don’t teach other players how to play their cards

At some point, you have to recognise your skills as a gambler to respect the progress you’ve made over the years. You may have discovered tricks and strategies that work well for you, but you shouldn’t try to teach other online players. Even if you just want to help them increase their odds of winning, it’s still bad etiquette to dictate or invalidate the decisions they’re making.

In a game of poker, don’t try to explain what they could’ve done differently, especially when you’ve just beaten their hand. Most of them just want to have a good time and not be treated with condescension. Feel free to give advice, however, if they’re asking one from you. 

Keep the celebration to yourself

You won a big pot, congratulations! During these situations, you might not be able to contain your emotions and bombard the chatroom with your celebratory remarks. However, be careful not to go overboard. Never gloat about your wins and tease your opponents when they lose a decent amount of wager. 

This isn’t to say that you shouldn’t feel happy or proud every time you win. Bear in mind that your luck can quickly change, and the next thing you know, you’re the person who’s on the losing side. 

Remember the casino tipping etiquette

Experiencing a great streak of luck that helped you win several rounds? If yes, don’t hesitate to tip the live dealers! Several live dealer games from software providers like Playtech provide a ‘Tip’ option where you can enter the amount you want to give. 

The general rule of thumb is to give them 5% of your winnings. But it’s still totally up to you how much you’re willing to tip the dealer. Even if you don’t walk away as the winner, you can still give them a small tip as a way of saying thank you. 

Practice casino etiquette with Livecasino.io

No matter how impressive you are as a player, your skills and strategies will seem futile if you lack the proper casino etiquette. In most cases, it all boils down to common sense and basic decency. For as long as you know how to show respect and stay within your limits, then you’re on your way to becoming a decent player.

At Livecasino.io, we offer the best communities you can play with when playing live dealer games like roulette, blackjack and poker. Don’t miss out on this chance and sign up today!

Words by: Rachelle Bulalacao