Play Baccarat Online

Part of what makes Baccarat so entertaining for millions across the world that play it – is the fact that it is so simple to play. Originated in France in the late 1400’s, Baccarat in the United States has the casino bank the game at all times. Players may bet on either side of the banker. The banker is simply designations for two hands dealt in each game. When you are looking for a game of Baccarat at a local casino, typically they are in separated rooms away from the main gaming floor. There is typically a great deal of security near Baccarat, due to the high stakes many players will put on the game. When looking online, just be sure you understand all the rules of the game, and find a trustworthy casino.

Basic Rules
Baccarat has several rules, but none of them are too difficult that players cannot understand. First, the banker and the player each draw two cards. Next, if either player draws an 8 or 9, both players are forced to “stand”. If the number is a 6 or 7, that player must stay. If the player stands, the banker must hit on a total of 5 or less. If the player has a 5 or less, the player must hit, which means the banker gives him/her a third card. If the player draws a third card, the banker must do the following options:

* If the bankers hand totals: 0, 1 or 2 – banker always draws third card
* Bankers hand totals 3: Banker must draw, unless players’ third card is 8.
* Bankers total 4: Banker must draw if the player third is 2-7.
* Bankers total 5: Banker must draw if player’s third card is 4-7.
* Bankers total 6: Banker draws if the players’ third card is 6 or 7.
* Bankers total 7: Banker must stand.

Once all the cards have been dealt, the closest to nine wins the game.

How to Play
The objective of the game is to draw a two card, or three card hand that totals closer to 9 than the dealer. If your card is a 10, jack, queen, king – equals 0. An ace is worth one point, while the rest of the cards are face value. If you grab a total of over 10, you drop the ten. For example, if you have a 5 and a 9, your total is 14, but your hand score is a 4. Therefore there is no bust hand in Baccarat. A lot of people will ask, “How do I improve my odds?” There really is no way to do that. There is also no reason to count cards, as most of the game is predetermined already.

Payouts and Odds
When you bet on your own hand in Baccarat, you are facing a slight house advantage. The advantage is just under 2%. If you bet on the banker’s hand, there is anywhere from 0.6% - 1.1% house advantage, depending if they are using a 4% or 5% house cut. There is also a tie bet, which allows the house to have an edge of over 5%. This would be the most dangerous bet in the game of Baccarat. Many people feel the game of Baccarat should be played at a busy table. This is due to the fact that the game is slowed down a bit. The more hands you play per hour – the better your chances are, at losing.