Baccarat Rules & Strategies

Sunbet
12/02/2025

When it comes to online gambling, few games bring the sophistication and style of baccarat. Whether you're a seasoned card shark or a curious newbie looking to dip your toes into the world of online casinos, baccarat offers a mix of simplicity and strategy that’s hard to resist. So, pull up a chair, shuffle the virtual deck, and let’s explore the ins and outs of this timeless casino classic. Ready to learn how to play baccarat and sharpen your game? Let’s deal!

What is Baccarat?

First things first: what is baccarat? At its core, baccarat is a card game where players bet on which of two hands - the Player or the Banker - will come closest to a total of nine. The game traces its origins to 15th-century Italy before making its way to France, where it became a favourite among aristocrats. Over the centuries, baccarat evolved into various forms, including Punto Banco, which is the version most commonly played in casinos today. In modern times, baccarat has left the smoky casino floors and entered the digital age. Online baccarat allows players to enjoy the game from the comfort of their homes, with live dealers and sleek interfaces adding to the authentic experience. It’s easy to see why baccarat has remained a popular choice for gamblers worldwide.

How Do You Play Baccarat?

So, how does baccarat work? At first glance, baccarat might seem complicated, but it’s actually one of the simplest casino games. Here’s the deal:

Place Your Bet

Before the cards are dealt, you’ll place your bet on one of three outcomes: the Player’s hand winning, the Banker’s hand winning, or a Tie.

Cards Are Dealt

The dealer deals two cards each to the Player and Banker. Sometimes, a third card is drawn according to specific baccarat dealing rules (we’ll get to those in a bit).

Determine the Winner

The hand closest to a total of nine wins. If you’ve bet on the right outcome, you’re in for a payout!
Sounds simple enough, right? But as with any game, understanding the rules and strategy can elevate your gameplay.

Baccarat Rules Explained

Let’s get down to brass tacks and unpack the baccarat game rules:

Card Values

Cards 2 through 9 are worth their face value, 10s and face cards are worth zero, and Aces count as one.

Hand Totals

If the total value of a hand exceeds nine, only the second digit counts. For example, a hand with a 7 and 8 totals 15, but it’s counted as 5.

Third Card Rules

The most intricate part lies in the baccarat dealing rules. Whether a third card is drawn depends on the total of the Player’s and Banker’s hands. The Player draws a third card if their total is 0 - 5, and the Banker’s actions depend on both their total and the Player’s third card.

Winning Bets

Bets on the Player pay 1:1, while Banker bets (the safest option) pay 1:1 minus a 5% commission. Ties pay 8:1 or 9:1 but are far less likely to occur.
By now, you’ve got the rules in baccarat down pat. Ready to up your game? Let’s talk strategy.

Best Baccarat Strategies

Looking for ways to boost your chances of winning? Here are some of the best baccarat strategies to keep in mind:

Bet on the Banker

Statistically, the Banker wins slightly more often than the Player. If you’re unsure, stick with this safe bet - just remember the 5% commission.

Avoid the Tie Bet

Sure, the payout is tempting, but the odds of a tie are slim. Betting on a tie is like fishing in a desert - not impossible, but not likely.

Stick to a Budget

Always set a budget before you start playing. Baccarat is fast-paced, and it’s easy to get swept away in the action.

Use a Betting System

Strategies like the Martingale (doubling your bet after a loss) or Fibonacci (using a sequence to determine your bets) can help manage your bankroll. However, remember that no system guarantees a win.

Play Short Sessions

Like good bacon, baccarat can be streaky. If you’re on a hot streak, enjoy the ride but know when to walk away. Likewise, if Lady Luck isn’t on your side, it’s best to cut your losses.

Practice Makes Perfect

Take advantage of free baccarat games to familiarise yourself with rules and different strategies before playing for real money.

Time to Play and Win!

Now that you know how to win in baccarat online, it’s time to put your newfound knowledge to the test. Remember, baccarat is a game of luck with a sprinkle of strategy. By understanding the baccarat game rules and employing some smart tactics, you can maximise your chances of success.
So, are you ready to shuffle up and deal? SA’s leading online casino platform, Sunbet, brings you the very best in baccarat online. Whether you’re chasing that nine or just looking for some fun, we’ve got you covered. Let’s play - may the cards be ever in your favour!