Mastering Baccarat: Rules and Basic Strategy

Despite its glamorous reputation, baccarat is actually one of the simplest games in the casino.

Your only real decision is deciding which side to bet on before the cards are dealt.

Understanding the Basics of Baccarat

You can bet on the Player, the Banker, or predict that the round will end in a Tie.

Cards two through nine are worth their face value, while tens and face cards are worth zero.

• You can bet on the Banker, Player, or Tie
• Winning Banker bets usually pay a 5% commission
• The hand closest to nine wins the round

Comparing the Main Betting Options

Mathematically, the Banker bet is the safest wager you can make on the casino floor.

Even with the commission factored in, the Banker bet boasts an incredibly low house edge of 1.06%.

The Danger of Betting on a Tie

The Tie bet offers a tempting payout of 8 to 1, but it comes with a massive catch.

Sticking strictly to the Banker or Player bets ensures your bankroll will last much longer.

By simply betting on the Banker consistently, you are playing with near-optimal mathematical efficiency.