Baccarat is one of the most popular casino games around the world. It is easy to learn and has a simple format that makes it ideal for beginners. Unlike blackjack and roulette, which offer many different wagering options, baccarat has only three bets. Players choose whether to bet on the Player, Banker, or Tie. Once the bets are placed, the dealer deals two cards to each hand. The winner is determined by which hand comes closest to nine. In addition, a third card is drawn if the first two totals more than five. The points are added differently in baccarat, and the second number in a hand’s total is dropped. For example, an 8 and 7 would be worth 15 points. However, a 3 and 5 would be worth eight points. Picture cards like jacks, queens, and kings count as zero points, while aces count as one point.
The game is also a popular choice among high rollers. Bill Zender, a former Nevada Gaming Control agent and long-time casino manager, says that Asian high rollers have made baccarat their favorite game for the past twenty years. He attributes this to the game’s simplicity and the fact that it is a fast-paced, high-limit game.
Another reason for its popularity is the game’s low house advantage. According to Zender, the 5% commission levied on winning banker bets reduces the game’s house edge to just 1.9%. If a player wins, they receive their initial stake back plus the payout odds of 1 to 1. A tie bet is more risky but has higher payout odds of 8 to 1.
Baccarat’s popularity has spread to the United States and can be played at top online casinos. It has also become an integral part of popular culture, appearing in numerous movies and shows. The film Rush Hour 3, for instance, features a scene in which main characters James Carter and Genevieve play baccarat. The 1956 French heist drama Bob le Flambeur, meanwhile, features a famous scene in which the protagonist plays the game for money.
Although it’s a great game to relax and enjoy, it’s important to practice baccarat strategy before betting for real cash. In addition, it’s a good idea to set a win limit. This will help you avoid getting carried away with the game and ensure that your bankroll doesn’t get depleted too quickly. This way, you’ll be able to make the most out of your time at the casino and avoid making any costly mistakes.