The Ultimate Baccarat Guide For New Players

If you observe the VIP sections of a luxurious casino, you probably noticed wealthy gamblers focused intensely on a game of Baccarat. Due to its famous connection with Ian Fleming's 007 and massive stakes, Baccarat has a reputation as being too difficult or exclusively reserved for the elite. However, the absolute truth is that this card game is one of the simplest and mathematically favorable options on the entire casino floor.

Understanding the Rules: Betting on the Banker or the Player

In stark contrast to skill games, Baccarat requires absolutely no skill during the actual hand. The casino staff runs the math. The objective of the game is to predict which side will have a value that totals nine. You only have three options: the Player hand, the 'Banker' hand winning, or that both hands tie. It is important to note that the labels do not represent you and the casino; they are simply the names given to the two hands dealt on the table.

How to Count the Cards and Baccarat Scoring

How you calculate points in Baccarat is a bit weird at first. All standard number cards retain their pip value. An Ace counts as a one. The picture cards and 10s count as zero points. The most confusing rule for beginners is that a hand's total can never exceed nine. If you hit 15, you simply drop the first digit. For example, if a hand receives a 7 and an 8, the sum is 15. The score becomes 5.


Always bet the Banker because it acts last.
Since it is the best bet, the casino charges a standard 5% commission on all winning Banker bets.
Never, under any circumstances, bet on the Tie. The casino edge is huge of around 14 percent.
Do not worry about the draw mechanics; the staff follows a strict chart.

Evaluating the Odds

To ensure you play perfectly, here is a chart that breaks down the exact math for the three main Baccarat bets.


Bet TypePayoutCasino Advantage
The Banker Hand0.95 to 11.06% (The absolute best bet)
The Player HandDouble your money1.24% (A very solid choice)
A Tie ResultMassive 8 to 1Extremely High (14%+)


Ultimately, Punto Banco is incredibly easy that features the lowest house edges in the entire casino. By not worrying about past hands and always wagering on the Banker hand, you will experience an exciting time without needing to memorize difficult rules. Never forget: the Tie is a trap!