A Beginner’s Guide to Baccarat: Rules and Variants

Baccarat is one of the most iconic casino games in the world. In its simplicity and elegance, baccarat has drawn players from high-rolling VIPs to casual gamers. From its beginnings in 15th-century Italy, this eternal card game has undergone many transformations and spawned numerous variants.

From the basic rules and hand values to the various versions you can try out in casinos today, this guide covers all there is to know about baccarat. If you are a first-time player or want to better your knowledge, this is the ultimate baccarat resource.

What is Baccarat?

Baccarat is pronounced bah-kuh-rah, a comparing card game played between two hands: the “Player” and the “Banker.” Despite the name, “Player” and “Banker” don’t refer to you or the dealer specifically; they’re merely the two sides that compete in each round.

The aim of the Baccarat card game is straightforward: guess which hand will have a total value closest to nine. Players can bet on the Player’s hand, the Banker’s hand, or a tie. Unlike skill-based games like poker, baccarat is a game of pure chance with specific rules. Still, you can have a strategy that may enhance your winnings.

Historically, baccarat was introduced to Italy and later gained a following in France, where it became the darling of the aristocracy. That glamorous reputation still prevails today, with most baccarat lounges offering an air of exclusivity.

How to Play Baccarat?

Baccarat represents a game of sophistication and is at the same time outstandingly simple. Although various varieties of the game might have subtle changes in the rules, the essence remains the same: bet on the hand that you think is going to come closest to nine. The best part about it? You place your bet and can sit back literally, as everything else just goes out of your hands. The rest the dealer will take care of, while you enjoy the excitement of the game. Here’s how you can get started with a step-by-step approach:

Step 1: Choose a Game

First and foremost, you need to find the perfect baccarat table that fits your taste. You want to choose the right game, whether online or live. Once you are prepared and have learned the basic elements, load a baccarat table and prepare for the action.

Step 2: Place Your Bet

Now it is time to decide on the amount you wish to wager and where to place the bet. You have three major options:

1. Player Hand
2. Banker Hand
3. Tie

Some baccarat tables also offer side bets, which can add an extra layer of excitement if you’re feeling adventurous. Simply place your chips on the corresponding betting area, and let the game begin.

Step 3: The Cards Are Dealt

The dealer will now deal two cards to both the Player hand and the Banker hand. Card values are calculated as follows:

1. 2-9: Worth their face value.
2. Aces: Worth 1 point.
3. 10s, Jacks, Queens, Kings: 0 points.

The value of each hand is determined by adding the two cards together. For instance:
A hand consisting of a 5 and 7 adds up to 12, but in baccarat, the second digit is the only one that counts, so the value of the hand is 2.

Step 4: Additional Cards May Be Dealt

Depending on the initial totals, the dealer may have to draw a third card for the Player or the Banker. This is done according to a fixed set of rules that you don’t have to remember because the dealer does everything automatically.

Step 5: The Winner Is Declared

The hand closest to a total of nine wins. If you bet on the winning hand, you’re in luck! If it’s a tie, bets placed on the tie option are paid out, and all others lose.

Baccarat Rules Explained

When it comes to baccarat, there are a few things you should know about the rules. As we noted – the rules are not difficult, but as this is a beginners guide to baccarat, we will cover all the essentials, including those little specific details:

1. Cards that are numbered from 2 to 9 are worth their face value.
2. 10s and Kings, Queens, Jacks – value is 0, while Ace is worth 1.
3. Winning wagers usually are paid even money, however, minus 5% commission on banker bets.
4. Winning bet on the tie will pay you 9:1 or 8:1, depending on the online casino website.
5. Depending on your values – you can receive a third card, same goes for the banker.

Baccarat Hands, Cards and Bets

In the game of baccarat, there are two hands on which the game is placed: the Player Hand and the Banker Hand. Although the names may suggest otherwise, players can place a bet on either hand to win. A bet on the Player hand pays out at 1:1, but a Banker bet includes a 5% commission on winnings. Even with this small fee, many seasoned players favor the Banker bet because of its favorable odds.

Baccarat Hand Values

When the bets are on, then the Player’s and the Banker’s hands have to be dealt two cards each. The individual value of each card has to go by the following:

1. 2-9 – Face Value
2. Ace – 1 Point
3. 10, Jack, Queen, King – 0 points

The total value of a hand is determined by the summing up of points for its card, considering just the last number of such a sum.

For example: 

1. A 7 and 5 total 12, but in baccarat it’s worth 2.
2. A 9 and 6 total 15, which becomes 5.

Possible baccarat hand values range from 0 to 9. You want the hand you bet on to have a value closest to 9. If either hand equals 8 or 9 after the first deal, it’s known as “Natura”, and the game is over. If neither hand has a Natural, then the drawing of the third card is dictated by the following rules.

Baccarat Third-Card Rule

The rules that determine whether a third card is drawn can be somewhat confusing, but they are performed in an automated manner by the dealer. Here’s how it works:

Player Hand: 

1. Stands on a total of 6 or 7.
2. Draws a third card on a total of 0-5, except if the Banker’s hand is a Natural of 8 or 9.

Banker Hand:

The Banker’s decision is based on the third card drawn by the Player. Use the chart below to understand when the Banker stands (S) or hits (H):

Baccarat Cards

Baccarat uses six to eight decks of cards shuffled together and stored in a “shoe”. The way the shoe is constructed guarantees randomness and fairness of every round. Each deck contributes to the overall simplicity of calculating hand values, making baccarat an accessible game for new players.

Baccarat Bets

There are three basic betting options in baccarat:

1. Player Hand: Pays 1:1.
2. Banker Hand: Pays 19:20 (or 1:1 minus a 5% commission).
3. Tie: Normally pays 8:1 or 9:1, but the house edge is far higher than that at over 14%, depending on the casino.

Baccarat Side Bets 

Many different variants of baccarat allow for side bets to add variety to the game. These bets are always high-paying but come with a much higher house edge. Common side bets include:

1. All Red/All Black: A bet that one hand is all red cards or all black cards pays 22:1 or 24:1.
2. Bellagio Match: 75:1 if the hand contains three of a kind; Banker, 68:1.
3. Dragon Bonus: A bet that a hand is a Natural 8 or 9 and will win by a margin, payout, up to 30 to 1

Betting on the Banker – Why is it a Good Idea?

The Banker bet is the statistically safest choice in baccarat because of its low house edge at 1.06%. Despite the 5% commission that is taken from the winnings of Banker bets, this option remains a favorite among experienced players. When playing for optimal odds, it’s always good to focus on Banker bets and avoid high-risk, high-reward bets like Tie bets.

An appreciation of hands, card values, and available bets means you are going to have more fun when playing the great, classy, yet relatively simple baccarat game.

Baccarat House Edge, Odds and Payouts

Commonly, baccarat is celebrated for its low house edge, which makes it probably one of the friendliest games on the casino floor to the players. Your chances of either winning or at least stretching your bankroll are considerably better in this game compared to slots or most other table games. With the house edge and payouts known, though, you may better strategize your decisions for increased success.

Why Baccarat Stands Out?

The house edge in Baccarat is famously low compared to other casino games. This makes it an attractive choice for both high rollers and casual players alike. Let’s compare the three main betting options in baccarat, which are as follows:

1. Banker Bet – super low house edge of 1.06% – this makes it a safe bet.
2. Player Bet – slightly higher house edge here of 1.24%, but still better than most of the other popular casino games.
3. Tie bet – higher risk here with house edge of 14.4%.

To compare – most slots have house edge of 5-10%, while roulette – 2.7-5.26%.

Deck Numbers in Blackjack

The number of decks used in a game can slightly alter the house edge, though not drastically enough to make a difference for one session. For example, in single-deck baccarat, the house edge for the Banker bet drops to 1.01%, while the Player bet rises slightly to 1.29%, and the Tie bet balloons to 15.75%. These minor changes make the Banker bet even more attractive when fewer decks are in use.

Variants of Baccarat

Did you know that there are many exciting variations of blackjack available? Each has its own advantages and may surely boost your overall experience. Let’s tell you more about the different variants of baccarat:

1. Chemin de Fer: Originating in France, Chemin de Fer is a more classic version of Baccarat in which the players have a greater sense of control. Players take turns playing as the Banker and dealing the cards. This makes it much more interactive, since the Banker can choose to draw or stand depending on their strategy. This version is slower-moving, but it’s the favorite of many because of the social and strategic elements involved.
2. Baccarat Banque: A European version close to Chemin de Fer, Baccarat Banque also offers players their time to be the Banker, but it is a fixed role throughout the entire shoe. Normally played with three decks, this game of baccarat offers more guidelines within the gameplay. For the player looking for that added strategic edge, devoid of the rotation of bankers at every other hand.
3. Punto Banco: Punto Banco is the most popular version of Baccarat played in North America, and it is a game of pure luck. Players do not have to make any decisions because the casino is the Banker, and all actions are determined by predetermined rules. Simple and straightforward, this version is perfect for newcomers who want to enjoy the elegance of baccarat without needing to learn complex strategies.
4. EZ Baccarat: EZ Baccarat doesn’t charge the traditional 5% commission on Banker bets, which makes it more attractive to players. In lieu of charging commission, Banker bets that win with a total of 7 from three cards are considered a push (no payout). This slight rule variation introduces a faster-paced and slightly different gameplay dynamic.
5. No Commission Baccarat: As the name suggests, this variant removes the 5% commission on Banker bets entirely. To balance this out, the payouts for certain winning Banker bets are adjusted, such as a reduced payout for a total of 6. This version is perfect for those players who do not want to share their winnings with the house.
6. European Baccarat: In this version, a player may opt to draw on a hand totaling five. The banker, too, may stand or draw depending on the hand. While not as widely available online, this variation has some very unique twists to the rules of the game.
7. Baccarat Squeeze: A favorite of high rollers, Baccarat Squeeze leans into drama and tension. The dealer slowly reveals the cards, often bending or “squeezing” them to heighten anticipation. While the rules are unchanged, the theatrics in the presentation add an element of excitement.
8. American Baccarat: American Baccarat is a pretty cut-and-dry version that is played throughout the U.S., adhering closely to the Punto Banco rules. Its simplicity and familiarity make it an American casino staple.
9. Dragon Tiger: Dragon Tiger is a simplified variant originating in Asia. Instead of two hands, only one card is dealt to the Dragon and one to the Tiger. Players bet on which card will be higher, and it’s considered one of the fastest variants of baccarat. A tie bet is also available, but with a high house edge.
10. Super Pan 9: This is a less common version, which deals with a reduced deck of cards, only from Aces through 6s. Players and the Banker are dealt three cards; each can draw one more card. The limited card range makes the game unique in strategies and gameplay.
11. Speed Baccarat: For the thrill seekers, Speed Baccarat is the answer. These rounds last only 27 seconds, and therefore players can play more hands with less time wasted. Everything is the same as in conventional baccarat, but going so fast keeps the adrenaline flowing.
12. Three Card Baccarat: Three Card Baccarat was popular in Asia. Three cards are dealt to both the Player and Banker hands. The highest-ranking hand in this game is three face cards. This variation offers something different, with different hand rankings and fast-paced rounds.
13. Midi Baccarat: Midi Baccarat fills in the gap from regular baccarat up to the high-stakes Baccarat Squeeze. This is a smaller table that allows for an intimate but still dramatic release of the cards.
14. Lightning Baccarat: This is added in Lightning Baccarat, where there are multipliers for specific cards. If your winning hand includes one or more multiplier cars, the payout becomes significantly higher. It’s a great variation if a player likes to win big.

Winning Strategies for Baccarat

While baccarat is primarily a game of chance, there are ways to make your experience more enjoyable and manage your bankroll well. Here are some tried-and-tested tips to increase your chances of success at the table:

Bet on the Banker

Statistically, the Banker bet has the lowest house edge at just 1.06%, making it the safest option. While the winnings are subject to a 5% commission, this bet is still the most consistent choice for a long-term play. If your goal is to achieve steady results, stick with Banker.

 Stay away from the Tie Bet

The Tie bet has an excellent payout of 8:1 or 9:1, but it’s also very risky because it carries a huge house edge of over 14%. While it will hit occasionally, targeting either the Player or the Banker for bets is more appropriate.

Utilize a System of Betting

Several players do employ betting systems in managing their bets. Some common methods are:

• The Martingale System – double your bets once you lose to recover the lost money with wins.

• The Paroli System – double your bets once you win to capitalize the winning streaks.

• Flat betting – bet the same amount every hand if you want a steady gameplay.

Set a Budget and Stick to It

Before you start playing, fix the amount you are ready to spend and set limits. Baccarat is a fast-paced game, and it is easy to stop keeping track of time and money.

Look for No Commission Variants

Some versions of baccarat, such as No Commission Baccarat or EZ Baccarat, eliminate or reduce the commission that is charged on Banker bets, further increasing the advantage.

Baccarat vs Other Casino Games

Here in the table below we will provide detailed comparison of baccarat VS the most popular casino games you can find at the best online casinos:

Final Thoughts

Baccarat has remained one of the most available and elegant casino games with low house edges, simple rules of play, and entertaining gameplay. From casual players to high rollers, baccarat has variants that appeal to all, be it in the form of betting or otherwise.

Compared to blackjack and roulette, the thrill of baccarat cannot be matched by any other game due to the simplicity-entertainment quotient. It has all the ingredients of being ideal for gamblers searching for a simpleI and yet intriguing session, with its focus on luck and a low house edge. Dive into a game of baccarat, and you’ll quickly see why it has been a casino favorite for centuries.

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