Few table games are as chic and enjoyable to play as baccarat. Like roulette, baccarat is one of the oldest casino games that is still going strong. If you’re new to baccarat, it continues to find new generations and life thanks to the continued rise of online casinos. Before sitting down at the table, give this guide a read about the splendors and wonders of this timeless and elegant card game.
What Is Baccarat?
Baccarat is a gambling card game that has attracted a massive number of gamblers to online and land-based casinos alike. The history of baccarat can be traced back to the old gambling salons of Italy and France and the ancient Italian card game. The game has been around for hundreds of years, but has become increasingly popular throughout the world over the past few decades, especially in Asia and the United States. Films like the James Bond series continue to glamorize the art and allure of baccarat.
The goal of the game is to place a wager on the game’s result, which will either be a win for the player or a tie between the banker and the player. Being able to bet on the tie is what separates baccarat from other real-money and sweepstakes games.
A Game for Beginners and High Rollers
Asia is the part of the world that loves this game the most, including the Chinese gamblers. There are many tables available for this game in casinos in Macau, Singapore, the Philippines, Malaysia, and other local gambling meccas.
It’s not just the locals either – Asian gamblers, especially the high rollers, love to get out and play in other big casino spots too. From European to American casinos, all of these places know that a wealthy Asian high roller can be a big score, so they make sure to accommodate these players with a healthy amount of baccarat tables. Online casinos continue to offer high-limit baccarat games for high rollers in mind. However, you can find low-limit tables that can cost a buck to enjoy.
Why Play Blackjack Online?
Playing baccarat online offers more compelling reasons than others to give it a shot. Below are some of the top reasons to sit down with the banker:
- The Availability: Some of us can’t make it to a retail casino, so playing online makes it all that much sweeter and easier. Most online casinos with the right apps offer online baccarat 24/7.
- Game Variety: Besides classic Punto Banco, playing online baccarat offers more options than playing in person, which usually only offers Punto Banco. Enjoy Mini Baccarat and even progressive options online. Other favorites include Super 6, Baccarat Squeeze, and Dragon Tiger.
- Bonuses: Playing online baccarat offers more bonuses to help build a bankroll compared to playing in person.
How to Get Started
The first move is to join a reputable online casino. Playing at a reputable online casino offers fair gaming results. Also, you can enjoy online baccarat in a secure environment. You can easily create an account at reputable online casinos in minutes, either through a web browser or via the app. Make a deposit with trusted payment methods like cryptocurrency and have a seat at the virtual table.
Understanding the Baccarat Basics
Although baccarat has various betting strategies, it remains a game of chance. Overall, the rules are pretty straightforward. Before going for the gusto, take a moment to understand the baccarat lingo and rules.
- Most baccarat games play with six to eight decks of cards. Players bet on the tie, the player’s, or the banker’s bet.
- The first two cards are dealt to the player’s hand, and two are dealt to the banker’s hand.
- The point value of each hand is determined by adding the values of the individual cards and subtracting the tens digit of the result. If the player’s hand is dealt a seven and a six, the total value is 13, and the hand value is three.
- If the player’s hand or the banker’s hand has a value of eight or nine, that hand is the winner. If both hands are naturals, it’s a tie.
- If there are no naturals, a third card may be drawn under certain conditions. The drawing rules are based on the point value of the player and banker hands.
Unlike blackjack, you don’t bust going over nine. The first number in the playing is dropped, and the second value is kept. Tens and the royalty cards all count for zero, while aces count for one point. The other cards carry their straight-up value.
Players who have a playing hand worth six or seven points must stand. However, they can draw another card if the playing values are worth between four and five points. The banker only draws a third card under special circumstances and based on the player’s total. However, if the dealer’s value is worth less than three points, they must draw a third card.
Experience the Elegance of Baccarat Today
Thanks to impressive technological leaps, baccarat is more elegant and popular than ever before. With AI tools, the baccarat experience is becoming much more personalized. AI tools can help you improve your baccarat experience with custom strategy guides and even personalized bonuses. With responsible gaming practices, enjoy online baccarat at home, at the office, or on the go with casino apps.