Playtech's Live Casino Holdem is a poker-based game closely resembling the popular Texas Holdem variant. The game was developed by founder Stephen Au Young as a training tool for his wife when he was teaching her how to play poker. Playtech has presented the game in two distinct ways, giving their version a unique edge.
This online casino game is incredibly easy to learn and play, requiring only a basic understanding of poker hand values. The only decision you'll need to make during gameplay is whether to play or fold your hand. The objective is to form the best 5-card poker hand possible, using the two cards dealt to you and the five community cards.
Playtech has added an optional "Aces or Better" side bet, which can pay out even if the dealer's hand beats yours. The side bet is calculated using your two-hole cards and the first three community cards. Payouts range from 7:1 for a pair of aces or better, up to an impressive 100:1 for a Royal Flush.
To start playing, you'll need to place an initial Ante bet. The AA side bet offers a chance to win big, but it only pays out if you have a pair of Aces or better in your initial 5 cards. While the 7-1 payout for the lowest hand is quite decent in my opinion, it's the only reliable way to win money in this game.
The downside is that if the cards don't fall in your favour, you can quickly burn through your bankroll. Playtech has cleverly designed this Live Casino Holdem solution to cater to a wide range of players.
There are two table options, each with a distinct pace of play. The older table uses a quicker, no-frills interface - the dealer employs two shuffling machines to keep the games moving swiftly, with a new round starting as soon as the previous one concludes. This is perfect for players who prefer a fast-paced experience.
In contrast, the Soho Table utilises the latest interface and is set in a modern studio. Here, the dealer shuffles the deck, which is then further shuffled by an assistant next to the table. The gameplay is more leisurely, allowing you more time to chat with the dealer and follow the action. If you are new to Texas Hold’em or if you like fast table games visit Spin Genie and give this game a few hands.