What is baccarat? Rules, strategy & winning tips

Baccarat is a sophisticated casino game famously favored by high-rollers — and even James Bond. This dramatic card game revolves around placing blind wagers on whether the Player or Banker hand will score closest to 9. While Baccarat is purely a game of chance and the odds favor the house, understanding the rules, choosing a betting strategy, and following a few tips can make the experience more enjoyable and potentially more rewarding, whether you’re playing in a traditional establishment or exploring options like no ID verification casinos.

How to play

Before cards are dealt, players place their bets on one of three outcomes:

Player: The Player hand will be closest to 9.
Banker: The Banker hand will be closest to 9 (note: a 5% commission is typically taken from winning Banker bets).
Tie: Both hands will have the same score.

Two hands are dealt — the Player hand and the Banker hand — regardless of how many people are at the table. Each hand starts with two cards, dealt alternately, from a shoe usually containing eight decks. In most cases, the dealer handles the shoe, but in some versions, players may take turns dealing.

Card values and scoring

Number cards (2–9): Face value.
Aces: 1 point.
10s and face cards: 0 points.

If a hand’s total exceeds 9, only the second digit counts (e.g., a hand totaling 14 is scored as 4). A hand cannot “bust” as in Blackjack. The hand closest to 9 wins, and in the possibility of a tie, Player and Banker bets are returned, while Tie bets are paid out.

Drawing a third card

A third card may be dealt under these circumstances:

If either hand scores 8 or 9, both hands stand (no additional cards are drawn).
If the Player’s hand totals 0–5, a third card is drawn.
If the Player stands (with a total of 6 or 7), the Banker pulls a card under specific rules based on the Player’s third card and the Banker’s score.

The total for each hand is calculated, and the dealer announces the winning hand. Losing bets are organized, and winning bets are paid.

Baccarat strategies

While Baccarat is a game of chance, some players use betting strategies to manage their bankrolls and stay in the game longer. Here are a few common strategies:

Martingale system

The Martingale strategy involves doubling your bet after every loss. The idea is that a win will eventually recover your losses and result in a small profit.

Example: Bet $5 and lose. Your next bet is $10. If you win, return to your original $5 bet.
Drawbacks: A long losing streak can exhaust your bankroll, and table limits may prevent you from continuing to double your bets.

Paroli system

Known as the “Reverse Martingale,” the Paroli system involves doubling your bet after each win to maximize profits during winning streaks.

Example: Start with a $5 bet. If you win, your next bet is $10, then $20 if you win again.
Drawbacks: Without consecutive wins, you may lose more than you gain.

Fibonacci system

This strategy follows the Fibonacci sequence (1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, etc.), increasing bets progressively after losses and reducing them after wins. It’s slower than the Martingale system and popular with beginners.

Drawbacks: Wins may not always cover losses, and a large bankroll is needed for extended losing streaks.

Labouchere system

In the Labouchere system, you set a target profit and split it into smaller numbers. Bets are the sum of the first and last numbers in your sequence. Adjust the sequence after wins or losses.

Example: If your sequence is 5, 10, 20, you’d bet $25. A win removes the first and last numbers (leaving 10). A loss adds the bet amount to the sequence (e.g., 5, 10, 20, 25).
Drawbacks: Losing streaks can quickly inflate your bets.

1-3-2-6 and 1-3-2-4 systems

These strategies use fixed betting patterns to capitalize on short winning streaks.

Example: Start with a $5 bet. A win increases your bet to $15, then $10, and finally $30 (1-3-2-6 sequence). After a loss, return to the original bet.
Drawbacks: Requires consecutive wins; one loss mid-sequence can erase profits.

Tips for playing baccarat

Know the table limits: Check the minimum and maximum bet limits to ensure they align with your budget. Choose a table where you can comfortably make at least 20 bets.
Factor in commissions: Winning Banker bets often incur a 5% commission, which can reduce your overall profits.
Bet on the banker: Statistically, the Banker bet has the best odds, though the 5% commission should be noted.
Manage your bankroll: Set a budget and stick to it. Avoid chasing losses, and know when to walk away.