What Is Baccarat?

Baccarat is a comparing card game played between the "Player" and the "Banker". Despite its sophisticated image, it's actually one of the simplest casino games - you just bet on which hand will win or if it will be a tie.

The version found at most online casinos is Punto Banco, where the dealing procedure is fixed and no skill is required. The low house edge makes it a favourite among serious gamblers.

Card Values

  • Aces: Worth 1
  • 2-9: Face value
  • 10, J, Q, K: Worth 0

Hand values are calculated by adding card values and taking the last digit. For example: 7 + 8 = 15, so the hand value is 5.

How to Play

  1. Place your bet on Player, Banker or Tie
  2. Two cards are dealt to both Player and Banker
  3. Third card rules may apply (automatic, no player decision)
  4. Closest to 9 wins. Banker bets pay 0.95:1 (5% commission)

Betting Options

Player Bet

Pays 1:1. House edge: 1.24%

Banker Bet

Pays 0.95:1. House edge: 1.06% (best bet!)

Tie Bet

Pays 8:1. House edge: 14.36% (avoid!)

Baccarat Tips

  • Always bet on Banker - it has the lowest house edge
  • Never bet on Tie - the 14%+ house edge makes it a terrible bet
  • Ignore pattern tracking - each hand is independent
  • Look for tables with fewer decks (lower house edge)
  • Set strict loss limits before playing