Rules
Baccarat is a comparison game. Two hands are dealt — Player and Banker. You bet on which will total closer to 9. Cards 2–9 count at face value; 10s and face cards count as 0; aces count as 1. If the total exceeds 9, only the last digit counts (e.g. 7+8=15, counts as 5). The dealer follows fixed rules for drawing a third card. No player decisions — you only choose where to bet.
How to Play
Place your bet on Player, Banker, or Tie. The dealer deals two cards to Player and two to Banker. Third-card rules are automatic. The hand closest to 9 wins. Player and Banker bets pay even money (minus 5% commission on Banker wins). Tie pays 8:1 but has a terrible house edge. The game moves quickly; it's one of the simplest on the floor.
Basic Strategy
There is no strategy — the draw rules are fixed. Your only decision is where to bet. Banker has the lowest house edge (1.06%) but the casino takes a 5% commission on Banker wins. Player is close (1.24%). Tie is a sucker bet. Stick to Banker or Player; alternate if you prefer. Betting systems don't change the odds.
House Edge Explained
The house edge is built into the payouts and the probability of each outcome. Banker wins slightly more often than Player, which is why the commission exists — without it, the casino would lose. The Tie bet pays 8:1 but only hits about 9.5% of the time, giving the house a 14.4% edge. It's one of the worst bets in the casino.
Tips for Beginners
Baccarat is easy — no decisions to make. Bet Banker or Player; skip Tie. Minimums can be high at baccarat tables; look for mini-baccarat for lower stakes. The game is popular in Asia; Genting Highlands has extensive baccarat action. Don't be intimidated by the layout — the dealer handles everything.
Best Spin Hotels for Baccarat
ARIA, Resorts World Las Vegas, Mandalay Bay, and Genting Highlands. Genting is especially known for baccarat — it's a staple of Asian casino culture. ARIA, Resorts World, Mandalay Bay, Genting Highlands.