Baccarat is well known casino game all over the world. Despite this, some players consider the classic to be complicated. The rules of the game are very simple. Here you get a comprehensive introduction to the Baccarat rules. Learn all about payout rates and side bets. At the end you are well prepared for your first game.

On this page you will learn the most important basics to get straight into the baccarat. These include the standard odds, the most common side bets and the variants. In addition, I will familiarize you with the basic terms of the Baccarat rules. In the end, you are well prepared for real money games in the classic game.

Where to Play Baccarat Online

Discover the best casinos to play baccarat online right here. All of our recommended sites offer big casino bonuses for online baccarat plus a variety of real money baccarat tables to join.

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Our team of casino reviewers at Casinova use their industry knowledge and experience as players themselves to carefully review online casinos. We consider several important factors when deciding whether to recommend a casino to you including, of course, the offering of baccarat games.

Where to Play Baccarat for Free

Looking to play baccarat for free first? Learn how to play baccarat and find the best strategy with our specialized casinos list.

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The Most Important Baccarat Game Rules – How to play

There are some caveats about baccarat. It is considered James Bond’s favorite game and is played in luxury hotels in Monegasque. This gives the classic game of chance an appearance of aloofness. But in truth it is one of the simplest casino games. Because the game principle requires only a few decisions from the player. Therefore, you can quickly learn to master the baccarat game rules.

The goal of the game

In online baccarat, all games are very similar. In total, you can place three main bets. You bet on either the player’s hand winning, the dealer winning or a tie. The object of baccarat is to guess the winner. The best hand is the one with the highest total of points – in this case, the total of nine.

Card values in baccarat

At the start of the game, both the player and the dealer receive two cards. All numbered cards are worth their face value. For example, a seven is worth seven points. Jack, Queen and King are worth ten points each. An ace, on the other hand, is only worth one point. If the number of points in the course of the game exceeds the total number of nine, counting starts again from one.

CardValues
2-3-4-5-6-7-8-9face value
10-J-Q-K0
Ace1

Although the counting is a little confusing at first, it quickly becomes understandable. If you were dealt an eight and a three as your first two hands, the score is one. Because the counting in the example is: nine – zero – one. In other words, as soon as you reach ten points, you start counting from one again.

The table

Almost all playing surfaces look identical and the baccarat rules are also similar. The playing cards, chips and markings on the table are particularly important. Each table has a section marked “Player” or “Player” and another marked “Banker” or “Dealer”. It is within the markers that you place your bet. For example, if you are betting on the player’s hand to win, place your chips within the markers labeled “Player”.

  • Cards: Standard decks are used in baccarat. Usually six or eight decks are used.
  • Table Limits: The minimum and maximum bets per hand should always be clearly displayed on the online baccarat table.
  • Player: You can also place your bet on the bank to win by placing your chips within the marker.
  • Banker/Dealer: You can also place your bet on the bank to win by placing your chips within the marker.
  • Tie: You can also bet on the game ending in a draw.

Despite small deviations in the design, the baccarat table will hardly change. Regardless of the game variant chosen or the game manufacturer, decisive game elements are recognizable on every table. If you know the basic structure, you will always find your way around.

This is how you play baccarat

The hand always begins with your decision on what to bet on and what stake to choose. Then the player and the dealer each receive two cards. The scores are then calculated. If you bet correctly, you get your winnings. Basically, you only have to follow the following simple steps when playing online:

  1. Select mission – Decide on a bet on the player, the bank or a tie. Then choose the amount you want to wager.
  2. Cards are issued – Both player and dealer receive two cards. If the hand exceeds a certain number of points, a third card is dealt.
  3. Scores are determined – Hands are scored according to standard baccarat rules, with nine being the highest possible. A 10 and face cards are worth zero points.
  4. Payout of winnings – All players who correctly bet on the outcome of the game receive their winnings. This ends the game round.

The basic rules of baccarat are very simple. However, as we proceed, we will provide you with some information that is more advanced. However, none of the baccarat game rules are incomprehensible. Some variants offer slight rule deviations. But if the classic baccarat game is enough for you, you will find it everywhere.

Baccarat Online Game Guide: Paytables and Draw Rules

The Baccarat game rules are never overwhelming. However, there are some strategic aspects that you should master before you jump into the online game. In the following sections of our baccarat game guide we discuss all the other principles that characterize the game. These include the payout percentages and the event of a tie.

The paytables

Since there are only three possible outcomes, the paytables are easy to understand. These provide information about the amounts of money that you receive for each successful bet. Typically, a bet on the player’s hand pays 1:1 and a tie pays 8:1. On the other hand, if you bet on the bank, the odds are 1:1 with an additional fee of 5% as the house edge.

The draw bet

As soon as the player and banker have the same number of points at the end of the round, there is a tie. If you have bet on the tie, you will be paid the corresponding winnings. The win rate for a tie is higher than for the other outcomes. It is often 8:1 – but this can differ depending on the game variant.

The third card

Many games end after two cards are dealt on each side. However, every now and then one or both hands will receive an additional third card. In general, if a player has five or fewer points, he draws a third card. If the player holds their hand after two cards, the bank will also draw a third playing card with five or fewer points.

However, if the player draws a third card, the value of that card decides whether the dealer draws a third as well. In order to illustrate what has been described, I have put together a clear table for you.

When the player draws a card in the Online Baccarat:

Value of the first two cardsAction
0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5Draw
6,7,8,9Keep

According to these rules, the drawing of the third card usually follows. However, this also applies: As soon as a hand reaches a natural eight or nine points, the hand is held. All hands that come about after the first two cards have been dealt are considered “natural”. In the next table, on the other hand, I also show when the bank hits in baccarat.

Value of the first two dealer cardsDealer hits on this third cardDealer holds
0, 1, 20, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
30, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 98
42, 3, 4, 5, 6, 70, 1, 8, 9
54, 5, 6, 70, 1, 2, 3, 8, 9
66, 70, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9
70, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Side bets

Many table games offer side bets, including baccarat. But here is a special feature: You can make side bets without placing a main bet. This distinguishes the game from the blackjack game rules, for example. In the next sections you will get to know the most well-known and popular betting options.

Player’s Pair

The player’s pair side bet wins if the player is dealt two of a kind. The color doesn’t matter. Only the value of the two playing cards has to match. This bet pays 11:1 and often has the RTP of 88.46%. Therefore, statistically speaking, it is one of the less lucrative bets.

Banker’s Pair

This betting option is identical to the side bet on the pair of players. There is also no difference in the payout ratio and win ratio. Because the probability of getting a pair is the same on both sides. The differences in how the third card is dealt are not relevant to this side bet.

Any pair

You are betting that either the bank or a player will be dealt a pair in their hand. The odds of this happening are slightly higher than betting on a pair on a fixed hand. Therefore, the win rate is slightly lower at 5:1. Despite this, the payout percentage is higher.

A perfect Pair

You win this side bet if two of the four cards on the player’s and dealer’s sides form a perfect pair. This means a match in card value and suit: e.g. two queens of hearts or two fours of diamonds. The win ratio is 25:1, but the RTP is relatively low at 82.93%.

Big

You will often find the side bet called Big in Baccarat. You are betting that the total number of cards dealt during the game will reach five or six. As soon as a third card is dealt, the bet is won. The high probability is also expressed in a ratio of 0.54:1.

Small

The small bet wins when neither player nor bank is dealt a third card. This case is less likely than getting a third card on either side, but more likely than pair bets. The win ratio is 1.5:1 and the RTP value is 94.73%. Great odds, right?

Online Baccarat Variants

Throughout this Baccarat Rules for Beginners Guide, we have introduced you to the basic principles of this game. Now you have to choose the right game. You have the choice between different variants, especially in legal baccarat online casinos. Choose the variant that best suits your preferences. Below are some of the most popular Baccarat variations.

Punto Banco

You will most likely find this baccarat variant in many online casinos. Even many games dubbed “baccarat” are actually punto banco. In this variant, all players bet against the house. Usually, all named titles follow standard baccarat rules. Only a few versions offer minimal deviations in the rules.

Mini Baccarat

This variation also largely corresponds to the standard baccarat variant. The only difference: the mini variant reduces the playing area to the essentials when you play online. Other variants include additional game statistics and tables. All of this is deliberately omitted in Mini Baccarat.

Chemin de Fer

Chemin de Fer goes back to a game variant that was named in France hundreds of years ago. The name means “railway” and refers to the increased gameplay of this version compared to others. This version is a little less common and a little more complicated than other variations. Chemin de Fer is characterized above all by the fact that players take turns playing the role of the bank.

Baccarat Banque

Baccarat Banque is almost identical to Chemin de Fer with one major exception: the player does not assume the role of dealer. This function is performed by a professional croupier. This is why this version is more common in casinos than chemin de fer. Nevertheless, this variant is also rarely found outside of France. Personally, this option seems to us the most popular.

The Top Developers for Online Baccarat Games

When it comes to live and RNG baccarat software, the biggest and most well-known brands in the iGaming industry offer a variety of games with different features, so even the most demanding players can find a version that suits their needs in terms of settings, pace , stake limits and side bets. Casino software developers like award-winning Evolution Gaming, industry leaders Playtech and Microgaming, as well as newcomers Extreme Live Gaming have baccarat in their live dealer catalogues.

Evolution Gaming

Evolution Gaming offers several online baccarat options that will surely satisfy the most demanding players, such as Speed Baccarat, Squeeze and Control Squeeze Baccarat, Choice of Roads, which display the results of each round in patterns. They also offer games with unique side bets like Player Bonus, Bank Bonus, Either Pair and Perfect Pairs. So if you’re looking to amp up your gaming experience with a few surprises and extra betting opportunities, Evolution has the solution.

Extreme Live Gaming

Extreme Live Gaming, featuring Classic Baccarat and gameplay, allows for an authentic gaming experience. It follows the traditional Macau style with a 6-card layout. An Asian favourite, the game differs from the other popular version of baccarat in all casinos and will appeal to both high stakes gamblers and newcomers to online live casinos. Set in a sleek studio, the game offers players an enhanced gaming experience and increased betting odds as players can bet on multiple outcomes.

Playtech

Playtech offers one of the largest and most diverse live gaming platforms. Their selection is tailored to the needs of all players, making it one of the most diverse there is. Some of their most popular games are No Commission Baccarat, VIP Baccarat, Progressive Baccarat and the latest gem is Prestige Baccarat – a polished version that enriches the classic game with five levels of play and replays of winning hands.

Microgaming

Microgaming offers a variety of RNG Baccarat games with customizable features like Baccarat Gold which also offers the squeeze option. All of their RNG games are also available in demo mode for free play. In addition to their traditional, download, flash and mobile platforms, Microgaming offers a live dealer platform with a wide variety of games, as well as the ability to play baccarat individually or simultaneously.

NetEnt

NetEnt has always impressed with unsurpassed graphics and design quality. Their slot machines are real works of art, but their game catalog is also expanded with table and card games, as well as live casinos. We are still waiting for a baccarat option to be added to the live casino developed with Chroma key technology. But in the meantime, their Punto Banco Pro Series game boasts a great design and one of the highest betting limits.

Play’n Go

Play ‘n GO offers an impressive range of mobile-friendly games with excellent graphics and sound for the best gaming experience on the go. Among the games selection is a Mini Baccarat, consisting of six decks, which is perfect for the smaller screens of mobile devices. The intuitive design, responsive interface, and easy-to-navigate menu allow for effortless gaming from virtually anywhere, with a quick guide to the rules and a paytable available to everyone.

Tips, Tricks and Tools

In our baccarat game guide you have learned everything you need to find your way around playing online. In addition, we have prepared some useful support materials for you. With these you can optimize your game even further – and hopefully bring in profits:

Baccarat tools to download

Of course, you can always visit this page if you want to refresh your knowledge of the rules. But you can also download and print out the info tables. This way you have this information at hand during the game.

These tools contain the same variation and side bet information as found on this page. In addition, you will find a practical Baccarat points card here. You can download this and fill it out while playing. All important terms can be found again in the overview in our Baccarat glossary.

Baccarat glossary

All important terms can be found again in the overview in our Baccarat glossary.

TermDefinition
BankrollThe total sum of money that a player has designated for use in gambling at any point in time. Bankroll management is one of the most important parts of a winning baccarat strategy.
BurnRefers to discarding the first cards of a shoe – an action used to confound would-be cheats by disrupting the order of the cards. This simple measure is taken in all card games.
CallmanTerm used to refer to the dealer – the casino employee that “calls” the baccarat game.
Down CardShort hand term for a card that is facing down.
Face CardA category of cards that includes Kings, Queens, and Jacks. These cards, along with tens, are totally worthless in baccarat.
La GrandeFrench term for a natural hand worth nine. In English, it means “The big one,” as opposed to its smaller counterpart, which is worth eight.
La PetiteFrench term for a natural hand worth eight. In English, it means “The small one,” as opposed to its larger counterpart, which is worth nine.
NaturalDescribes a two-card baccarat hand that is worth either eight or nine. If only one of the two hands is a dealt as a natural, then the round comes to a close and that hand is automatically the winner.
PuntoThe player. This term also refers to the baccarat hand that sits opposite of the Banco hand. Betting on the Punto hand is not advised, due to its higher house edge.
ShoeThis is the box that is used to hold the decks of playing cards that are used in the baccarat game.
Up CardTerm used to describe a card which is facing up.

A Brief History of Baccarat

Baccarat is not one of the absolute casino classics for nothing. Because its history goes back several centuries and falls into the category of older games of chance. The Baccarat game rules have their origins in the Italian Middle Ages. The name derives from the Italian word for zero, since the face cards and tens count as zero points.

The card game then spread to France. There it became popular under the name Chemin de Fer (French = “railway”). The naming did justice to the game variant: This was played faster than the Italian version. Since then, baccarat has spread all over the world – including the majority of online casinos.

Baccarat is popular with players in many countries. On the one hand, this explains the long tradition. But the connection to one of the most popular characters in film history has also contributed a lot to the level of popularity – James Bond.

Baccarat Online: Conclusion

Through our detailed review, we were able to gain very good impressions of online baccarat. This is a fantastic casino game where you have very good chances of winning. In particular, the draw rule, in which you get your bets back, plays into your hands. In addition to the classic Punto Banco, you can also fall back on many other variants in the area of online baccarat.

We were also able to find the best online casinos for baccarat. It is therefore not one of the most popular card games in the numerous online casinos for nothing, which means that we can definitely recommend participating in baccarat with your own baccarat strategy.

The most frequently asked questions about online baccarat

At this point, we address many common customer questions about online baccarat. This will give you further important clues and you can deal with many important questions in advance.

Where can I find the best baccarat casino sites?

There are many online casinos on the Internet that offer you baccarat. In this review, we introduce you to top online casinos with baccarat that particularly impressed us.

What is the Most Lucrative Baccarat Casino Bonus?

There are numerous bonus promotions that you can use for online baccarat. One of the most lucrative baccarat bonus offers is definitely the deposit bonus for new customers.

How do you count cards in baccarat?

If you want to count the cards in online baccarat, you must first internalize the number of points on each card. You then have to remember which cards have already been drawn.

What are the most popular live games?

The classic Punto Banco is also the most popular version in the live casino area. When it comes to live baccarat, be sure to check out Evolution’s exciting games.

What is the top payment method for real money baccarat?

Cryptocurrencies is definitely one of the best payment methods, as all deposits are transferred directly and do not involve any additional costs for you. But the e-wallets Skrill and Neteller can also convince with fast and fee-free deposits and withdrawals.