What Is Baccarat?
Baccarat is one of the most popular casino card games in the world, particularly in Asia. Despite its glamorous reputation, it is actually one of the simplest games to play — no complex decisions, no skill-based strategy like poker. You simply bet on one of three outcomes: the Player wins, the Banker wins, or it's a Tie.
Card Values in Baccarat
Understanding card values is the first step. Here's how the cards count:
- Aces = 1 point
- Cards 2–9 = face value
- 10s, Jacks, Queens, Kings = 0 points
Hands are scored by taking the last digit of the total. So a hand of 7 + 8 = 15 counts as 5. The closest hand to 9 wins.
How a Round Is Played
- Players place their bets on Player, Banker, or Tie.
- Two cards are dealt to both the Player hand and the Banker hand.
- A third card may be drawn based on fixed drawing rules (not player choice).
- The hand closest to 9 wins.
The drawing rules for the third card are automatic and predetermined by the game — you do not decide whether to draw. This makes baccarat unique among card games.
The Three Bets and Their House Edge
| Bet | Payout | House Edge (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Banker | 1:1 (minus 5% commission) | ~1.06% |
| Player | 1:1 | ~1.24% |
| Tie | 8:1 | ~14.4% |
The Banker bet has the lowest house edge of any casino game bet. Even after the 5% commission on wins, it remains the statistically best wager in baccarat.
Common Baccarat Side Bets
Many baccarat tables offer additional side bets such as:
- Player Pair / Banker Pair — betting that the first two cards dealt form a pair
- Either Pair — either side gets a pair
- Perfect Pair — identical cards (same suit and rank)
Side bets offer higher payouts but come with significantly higher house edges. They are best approached as occasional entertainment, not a core strategy.
Practical Tips for New Players
- Stick to the Banker bet for the best statistical odds.
- Avoid the Tie bet — the payout looks attractive but the house edge is very high.
- Set a session budget before you sit down and stick to it.
- Don't follow "pattern" systems — each hand is independent.
- Look for tables with fewer decks; fewer decks slightly favor the player.
Final Thoughts
Baccarat rewards simplicity. The game requires no complex strategy — just an understanding of the odds. By consistently betting on the Banker and managing your bankroll wisely, you give yourself the best possible chance of an enjoyable session. Start at lower-limit tables to get comfortable with the pace and flow before moving up.