How to Play Baccarat: Rules and Strategy

Baccarat is one of the simplest casino games. You bet on either the Player hand, the Banker hand, or a Tie. Two cards are dealt to each side, and the hand closest to 9 wins. Face cards and 10s are worth zero, aces are worth 1, and other cards are face value.

If the total exceeds 9, only the second digit counts—so a hand of 7 and 8 (15) is worth 5. A third card may be drawn based on fixed rules that the dealer follows automatically. You don't need to memorize these rules; the dealer handles everything.

The Banker bet has the lowest house edge at 1.06% (minus 5% commission). The Player bet has a house edge of 1.24%. The Tie bet pays 8:1 but has a massive house edge of 14.4%. Always avoid the Tie bet.

The optimal strategy in baccarat is simple: always bet on the Banker. While the 5% commission reduces the payout, the Banker bet still offers the best statistical odds. Avoid the Tie bet entirely, and don't follow patterns or scorecards—each hand is independent.