Game rules for Baccarat

Overview

The appeal of the card game of baccarat lies both in its simplicity and uniqueness. But while the rules of baccarat themselves are easy enough to understand, players would be wise to familiarize themselves with the many betting options in the game. Terminology is also an important element of the game.

Objective of Baccarat

Players place a bet to predict which of the two figures (banco or punto) in the game manage to get a hand total nearest to nine as possible.

Card Values in Baccarat

The game of baccarat has a unique way of calculating cards. Initially, all the cards come with their own face value (for example, two will be worth two points). The Ace is worth one point, while the Jack, Queen and King are valued at ten points. However, if the banco or punto are dealt cards whose values are more than ten, the ten digit is dropped, so that a value of 13 will become worth three only.

How to Play Baccarat

Up to fourteen players play around a custom baccarat table.

Players don’t have much participation in the game, except to wager which of the two sides (Punto or Banco) will win.  They can also opt to wager on a tie.

All bets are placed on the baccarat table.

Two cards each are dealt to the Punto and the Banco.

The total value of their cards is calculated.

If either is dealt an eight or a nine, they automatically stand.

If the Punto stands, the Banco is required to hit on any number up to and including five.

The Punto is dealt another card if he is dealt up to (including) a total of five.

When does the Banco Draw a Third Card in Baccarat?

The Banco will not draw a third card under all circumstances.

If the Banco is dealt:

0, 1, 2: He will draw a third card.
3: He will draw if the Punto draws anything except an 8.
4: He will draw if the Punto’s third card is anything between the numbers 2 and 8.
5: He will draw if the Punto’s third card is 4, 5, 6 or 7
6: He will draw if the Punto’s third card is 6 or 7
7: He needs to stand

How do you win at Baccarat?

After it is determined whom between the Punto or the Banco got nearest to nine, the players around the table are paid out according to their predictions (on the Punto, Banco or a tie) and naturally according to how much they wagered.

Conclusion

The uniqueness of baccarat, as well as its simple rules makes this game a much sought after table game option at casinos – both online and offline.