Live dealer tables have become a huge part of the online casino industry. Their arrival in the 2010s offered a kind of authenticity, appealing to players who enjoy the action and drama of playing against real dealers.
However, while it makes sense for physical casinos to run their own tables, online live dealer tables are outsourced to B2B companies that provide all the personnel, equipment and software to run these games.
This is all quite normal for online casinos, yet the live dealer side of the sector is a little bit different from software-based games like slots. With regards to the latter, a casino might host 1000s of games from 100s of iGaming studios, whereas there is a more concentrated number of live dealer companies.
Indeed, there are just a handful of live dealer B2B software companies that dominate the global market, generating billions of dollars of betting volume each year. But who exactly are they? Let’s have a look:
Evolution Gaming
The undisputed global leader in live dealer technology; some estimates put Evolution’s dominance at around 60-70% of market share, though it is difficult to measure in some regions. It supplies major platforms like DraftKings Casino in the US, providing it with everything from exclusive craps games to live dealer game shows. Evolution has strengthened from a position of strength in many respects, acquiring rival iGaming brands like NetEnt and Nolimit City. It is arguably the most influential name working in the background of the global casino industry.
Pragmatic Play
Pragmatic Play plays second fiddle to Evolution, but it is certainly not insignificant. The company is arguably more famous for its software-based games, and it boasts some of the most popular slot games in the world. However, its live casino studio is gaining a lot of traction, and it is popular with many players. It remains to be seen to what extent Pragmatic can challenge Evolution Gaming, but it is looking forward by fusing many of its popular slot brands with the live casino experience.
Playtech
In many ways, Playtech was a key pillar in building the online casino industry we know today. Founded in 1999, the company drove the innovation that defined the nascent iGaming industry, preparing it for specific milestones, such as the adopting of mobile casino games in the late 2000s. Its star has been on the wane somewhat, at least in terms of the dominance it used to enjoy. However, it is still a trusted brand, and its live dealer games are popular with many players.
Asia and Beyond
Evolution, Pragmatic and Playtech arguably represent the Big 3 of live dealer technology and entertainment, but a lot of their popularity is concentrated in North America and Europe. Regional differences exist. For example, in Latin America and parts of Africa, you will likely see the Ezugi brand running live tables. Ezugi is actually owned by Evolution, strengthening its role as the dominant player. In Asia, you might also see a bit more influence from brands like SA Gaming, Allbet Gaming and IDNPLAY.