While Baccarat is a fast paced game that is typically enjoyed by high rollers, it is not a difficult game to understand. The rules are very basic and there is not much that players can do to alter the outcome of the game. However, they do need to be aware of the different bets that are offered and the advantages and disadvantages of each. When playing this casino game, the cards are shuffled prior to each deal and the dealer will discard the first card from the shoe. The bets will then be called for and this is when players will make their sole decision in the game. There are just three betting options with baccarat and these are the banker hand, player hand or a tie.
Playing the Game
After players have selected their bet amount and have placed it on one of the three bets offered, the dealer will deal two cards to the player hand and also two cards to the dealer hand. Should either hand have a natural, where the two cards total 8 or 9, the game will end and all winnings will be paid. However, in most cases, there is no natural and there will be a need for the third card rule to take effect. Players at the table will have no say in whether any extra cards are dealt. Once the final cards are dealt, the dealer will announce the hand values and will pay the appropriate bet with the win.
Goal of the Game
Many players are intimidated by Baccarat because they do not understand the hand values or how winning hands are determined. With this game, the goal is to bet on the hand players believe will have a value that is as close to nine as possible. Remember, there are no 10 value cards in the game. The two or three cards are added at face value. If the total is more than 10, the first number is subtracted. For example, if the cards are a 5 and 7, the value is 12, but after removing the first number, the actual hand value is just 2.
Players will bet on whether the dealer or player hand will have the value closer to 9 and this will determine wins and losses. There is also the option to bet that the hands will be a tie. The tie bet does offer the highest payout in the game, but it is also considered a sucker bet because it has a huge house edge. It should also be mentioned that dealer hand bets will cost a 5% commission, so most players will bet on the player hand.
Regardless of how players bet, the goal is always the same and those that have mastered the game will quickly be able to place their bets and enjoy this thrilling casino game and the payouts that are offered.
You may also want to check these: