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How to Play Baccarat: Explanation of the Game Rules

A very popular game in Canada, online baccarat is often called a cousin of blackjack – not wrongly, even if the two games have had very different fates. But how exactly do you play baccarat? Don’t panic: on this page, we’ll guide you through the simple baccarat rules, explain how the game works, and also show you the best online casinos where you can enjoy it.

How Does a Baccarat Game Work?

Baccarat is associated with many games, including the 19th-century star, chemin de fer. Baccarat officially appeared in Las Vegas casinos around 1930 and has become a standard game in both land-based and online establishments. It has been featured in several James Bond films, including the first in James Bond vs Dr. No in 1962.

If you’re asking how baccarat works, the game is quite straightforward:

  • Your goal is to bet on the hand – either the Player’s or the Banker’s – that will finish closest to a total of 9.
  • The dealer draws from a shoe containing six to eight shuffled decks.
  • Before the cards are dealt, you place your bet on the Player, the Banker, or a Tie between them.
  • Two cards are then dealt to each side.
  • The totals are added up, and depending on the outcome, a third card might be drawn following preset rules.
  • The hand closest to 9 wins the round.
How to Play Baccarat

There’s no decision-making once the cards are dealt – baccarat strictly follows predetermined rules, which keeps the game simple yet highly engaging.

How Much Are the Cards Worth?

A classic pack of cards is divided into three categories when it comes to how to play baccarat:

  • The numerical cards (2 to 9) retain their face value.
  • The 10 and the silhouettes (jack, queen, king) are worth zero points.
  • The Ace, the star of any deck, is worth one point.

Understanding these card values is the first step to understanding how baccarat works.

Card Counting Rules

When a hand’s total exceeds 9, you must adjust the value:

  • If the sum is greater than 9, subtract 10 or simply drop the first digit. For example:
  • Two 8s = 16 → Hand value becomes 6.
  • 7 + 5 = 12 → Hand value becomes 2.

This method keeps every hand’s value between 0 and 9, creating the core tension of every baccarat round.

How Is Baccarat Paid?

The payout system in baccarat is simple but important to understand:

Bet TypePayoutHouse Edge
Player Bet1:1~1.24%
Banker Bet0.95:1 (5% commission)~1.06%
Tie Bet8:1 (sometimes 9:1)~14.36%
  • The player who bets on the winning Player hand wins an amount equal to their original bet (1:1 payout).
  • The player who bets on the Banker hand and wins is paid 1:1 minus a 5% casino commission.
  • The player who bets on a Tie and wins will receive 8 times their bet (or sometimes 9x, depending on the casino).

It’s important to note: while the Tie bet offers a higher payout, it also carries a significantly higher house edge, making it riskier.

Baccarat Rules: When Is a Third Card Drawn?

One of the essential parts of how to play baccarat is knowing when a third card is drawn:

  • If the Player’s hand totals 0–5, a third card is drawn.
  • If the Player’s hand totals 6 or 7, the hand stands.
  • If the Player or Banker has a total of 8 or 9 from the first two cards, it’s called a natural win, and no further cards are drawn.

The Banker’s third card rules are slightly more complex and depend on both the Banker’s total and the Player’s third card:

Banker’s TotalBanker’s Action
0–2Always draws
3Draws unless Player’s third card is 8
4Draws if Player’s third card is 2–7
5Draws if Player’s third card is 4–7
6Draws if Player’s third card is 6 or 7
7Always stands

You don’t need to memorize these baccarat rules when playing online – the software or the dealer will handle it automatically – but knowing them enhances your understanding of how to play baccarat strategically.

Different Variants of Baccarat Online

Understanding how does baccarat work also means knowing the different variants available online. Each version follows the same basic principles but introduces unique rules, betting options, and pacing that can significantly shape your playing experience.

Punto Banco

The most popular version, especially in North America and online casinos. Everything follows fixed drawing rules, and your job is simply to place your bets.

Chemin de Fer

A more strategic version where players take turns being the Banker and can choose whether to draw a third card.

Baccarat Banque

Similar to Chemin de Fer, but with the Banker position remaining fixed until their funds are exhausted.

Mini Baccarat

A faster, lower-stakes version of baccarat that follows the same basic rules but accommodates smaller bets and a quicker pace.

Speed Baccarat and Live Dealer Baccarat

Online casinos often offer Speed Baccarat, where rounds are completed every 27–30 seconds, and Live Dealer Baccarat, which connects you to real croupiers via livestream.

Tips for Playing Baccarat

Although baccarat is mostly a game of luck, experienced players follow a few smart habits:

  • Stick to Banker bets: The Banker hand has a slight statistical edge and the lowest house advantage.
  • Be cautious with Tie bets: They offer big payouts but come with a much higher risk due to the steep house edge.
  • Set a budget before you play: Good bankroll management helps you avoid chasing losses and keeps your play sessions under control.
  • Practice with free baccarat games: Many online casinos offer demo versions, giving you a chance to learn the baccarat rules and get comfortable without risking real money.
  • Stay disciplined: Streaks happen, but chasing wins usually leads to bigger losses. Play steady and know when to walk away.

Baccarat is one of the simplest and most entertaining casino games out there. Now that you understand how to play baccarat and the basics behind it, you’re ready to get started. Just remember – always play responsibly and keep the experience fun.