What is Baccarat?

Baccarat is one of the oldest and most prestigious casino games, favored by high rollers worldwide. Despite its sophisticated reputation, baccarat is actually one of the simplest casino games to learn. The goal is to bet on which hand - Player or Banker - will have a total closest to 9. Many players start with no deposit bonuses to learn the game, while high rollers often join VIP programs for access to private tables and higher betting limits.

Quick Start Guide

  1. Learn card values - Ace=1, 2-9=face value, 10/face cards=0
  2. Choose your bet - Player, Banker, or Tie
  3. Watch the deal - Two cards each to Player and Banker
  4. Closest to 9 wins - No decisions needed from you!

Baccarat Card Values

Ace

Worth 1 point

Number Cards (2-9)

Worth their face value

10, Jack, Queen, King

Worth 0 points

Hand Value Calculation

Add the card values together. If the total is 10 or more, drop the first digit. For example:

  • 7 + 5 = 12 → Hand value is 2
  • 9 + 6 = 15 → Hand value is 5
  • 4 + 3 = 7 → Hand value is 7
  • King + 8 = 8 → Hand value is 8 (King = 0)

Baccarat Betting Options

Player Bet

Payout: 1:1 (even money)

House Edge: 1.24%

Bet that the Player hand will be closer to 9

Banker Bet

Payout: 1:1 minus 5% commission

House Edge: 1.06%

Bet that the Banker hand will be closer to 9 (best bet)

Tie Bet

Payout: 8:1 or 9:1

House Edge: 14.4%

Bet that both hands will have the same value (avoid this bet)

🎭 How a Hand of Baccarat Works

Experience the elegance of this sophisticated casino classic

1

Place Your Bet

Choose Player (pays 1:1), Banker (pays 1:1 minus 5% commission), or Tie (pays 8:1) before cards are dealt. Banker has slightly better odds.

2

Initial Deal

Two cards are dealt face up to both Player and Banker positions. Card values: A=1, 2-9=face value, 10/J/Q/K=0. Only the last digit counts.

3

Check for Natural

If either Player or Banker totals 8 or 9 with the first two cards, the game ends immediately (called a "natural"). The higher natural wins.

4

Third Card Rules

If no natural, third cards may be drawn according to fixed rules. Player draws first (if total is 0-5), then Banker draws based on complex rules.

5

Compare Hands

The hand closest to 9 wins. If you bet on the winning side, you get paid. Ties pay only if you bet on Tie, otherwise bets are returned.

Third Card Drawing Rules

Player Drawing Rules

  • 0-5: Player draws a third card
  • 6-7: Player stands
  • 8-9: Natural - no more cards drawn

Banker Drawing Rules (More Complex)

The Banker's decision depends on their total and the Player's third card:

  • 0-2: Banker always draws
  • 3: Banker draws unless Player's third card is 8
  • 4: Banker draws if Player's third card is 2-7
  • 5: Banker draws if Player's third card is 4-7
  • 6: Banker draws if Player's third card is 6-7
  • 7: Banker stands
  • 8-9: Natural - no more cards drawn

Note: You don't need to memorize these rules! The dealer handles all drawing decisions automatically.

Baccarat Strategy and Tips

Best Betting Strategy

  • Always bet Banker: Lowest house edge at 1.06%
  • Avoid the Tie bet: High house edge of 14.4%
  • Player bet is second best: House edge of 1.24%
  • Ignore patterns: Each hand is independent

Money Management

  • Set a budget and stick to it
  • Don't chase losses with bigger bets
  • Take breaks to avoid emotional betting
  • Consider the 5% commission on Banker wins

Common Myths to Ignore

  • Pattern tracking: Past results don't predict future outcomes
  • Card counting: Not effective in baccarat
  • Betting systems: No system can overcome the house edge
  • "Hot" tables: Each hand is random and independent

Ready to Play Baccarat?

Now that you understand baccarat, try your skills at our recommended casinos with the best baccarat games and live dealers. Start with no deposit bonuses to get comfortable with the game flow, then explore VIP programs for private tables and personalized service. Cashback programs can help minimize losses while you develop your betting strategy. For variety, also try blackjack or poker for different card game experiences.

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