Baccarat is one of the most popular casino games around, whether in sticky-floor California card rooms or the tuxedo-laden casinos of Monaco. Despite its intimidating exterior, it’s actually a fairly simple game to play. All you need to do is bet on a Player, Banker or Tie, and the dealer will deal the cards. Then, it’s up to you to decide which hand comes closest to nine, with the winner earning a payout equal to your stake.
Baccarat has a long history of success, having won numerous medals at the Great Exhibitions of the 19th Century. This made it a hit with visitors, who were enthralled by the company’s monumental glass fountains, chandeliers and lighting fixtures. It would go on to impress with even greater achievements at the exhibitions of 1867 and 1878, gaining admirers from all over the world, including Portugal, Japan, India and Ottoman Turkey. Its most famous design of the period is probably its 1841 ‘Harcourt’ wine glass, which was renowned for its prismatic lustre.
Unlike many other card games, baccarat doesn’t require any skill to play. You simply place your bet before the cards are dealt, and the dealer will do the rest. During each round, the Player and Banker hands will both be dealt two cards face up, with the aim of getting a total as close to nine as possible. The game rules vary slightly between a punto banco (where the player and banker must draw a third card) and a chemin de fer (where the players can take a third card).
You don’t have to be a high roller to enjoy the thrill of baccarat, with most online casinos offering a minimum bet of $20 or $25. There are also sheets at the table where you can keep track of your score. Players who correctly bet on a winning player or banker hand receive a 1:1 payout, although those who bet on a winning tie must pay a 5% house commission, reducing the odds of this type of bet to 8-to-1.
While there are no real skills required to play baccarat, it’s a good idea to familiarise yourself with the game’s rules and etiquette before you start playing. The best way to do this is by finding a live game to play and watching the dealers at work. You’ll get a feel for the rules and the pace of the game, and you’ll be able to understand how the game is played in different countries.
Baccarat is a very simple game to learn, but it’s still a fast-paced and exciting game to play. You can try it for free with our Baccarat practice games, or you can sign up to a casino online and join in the fun. Just remember to check your local laws and regulations regarding gambling, since there may be state or federal taxes involved. Nevertheless, it’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to try their hand at a new casino game.