Baccarat Casino Guide

Getting  to Know Baccarat

In many land-based casinos across the globe, Baccarat is a popular game among high-rollers. Players are attracted by its low house edge. In popular culture, the game is popularized, like other casino games, by James Bond films, in particular, Casino Royale. 

Now, Baccarat is no longer confined to high-roller casinos. It’s one of the casino games offered by most online casinos. This game comes in various versions, the most popular of which is punto banco. Part of punto banco’s popularity lies in its straightforward gameplay, that even new players can easily learn. 

For those who haven’t played Baccarat before, here’s how it works. Like Blackjack, this game is classified as a comparison card game. However, in Baccarat, you can place your bet on either the dealer hand or player hand, or a tie. The closest sum you need to aim is not 21 (as in Blackjack), but nine. The main goal of the game is to guess which hand has a sum closest to nine. 

If the two-card has a sum of ten or more, then 10 will be subtracted from it. For instance, if your two-card hand’s sum is 13, this will just be a hand value of 3 (after subtracting 10 from it). However, if your hand value is 0 to 5, you will be dealt a third card. In another version, the banker may also draw a third card. 

The reason why Baccarat is more of a game of chance is because you have no control over the game except only at the start where you choose whose hand to place your bet on. Take note, however, that when you bet on the banker, you will need to pay a commission.

What to Look for When Finding Online Casinos to Play Baccarat

While Blackjack and Roulette are the most popular casino games, on top of slots, offered by most casinos, Baccarat also has its share of popularity. Many online casinos now offer Baccarat in their table games and live dealer games catalogues. 

When you are looking for an online casino to play Baccarat at, you must not only look into Baccarat itself. Of course, if playing Baccarat is your main goal, you must consider first and foremost the online casinos that offer a wide range of real money and free online baccarat games. 

However, to make the most of your casino experience, you will likely try other games as well. Hence. It is important that you consider the quality and number of games available at the casino’s games library. Other things that you need to look into are:

• Licensing and regulation by reputable authorities. Among the most reputable licensing authorities in the market is the UK Gambling Commission. Stay away from unlicensed casinos. 
• Certifications and audits from reliable third-party agencies like eCOGRA. 
• Safety and security measures, such as the utilization of the latest encryption technology to protect data privacy. 
• Availability of generous bonuses, promotions, and rewards.
• Availability of a wide range of secure and fast banking methods for withdrawals and deposits.
• Excellent customer service available via email, phone, and live chat. It’s better if the live chat feature is available 24/7 and in several languages.

Popular Baccarat Variations 

Baccarat is available in several variations. While the variations are similar at the core, they each follow a different set of rules and gameplay. The following are the most popular variations of this well-loved table game classic:

• Punto Banco

Punto Banco is the most popular and common Baccarat variant in many live casino venues in the USA, Australia, and Europe. It comes as no surprise to find that it’s also the most popular Baccarat variant available online. In terms of gameplay, this is the easiest. In this online Baccarat, the dealer does all the action. All you really do is place your bet. It’s that simple.

• Baccarat en banque

Another popular online Baccarat is the Baccarat en banque. This is a bit more complicated than Punto Banco. It commonly involves three decks. The attraction and popularity of this game lie in the fact the position of the banker will go to the highest bidder. Hence, if you are seeking for more action rather than just betting, this version is for you.

• Chemin de fer

However, if you want some more action than Baccarat en banque, try this version. Chemin de fer uses six decks. In this European version of Baccarat, there’s more action since the banker will rotate around the table dealing all six decks. Unfortunately, if you’re from the UK, this Baccarat variant is hard to find online.

Play Baccarat for Free

Some of the best online casinos offer free games. Find one that offers free Baccarat games. By playing for free, there’s really no risk involved. You can simply enjoy the game and try to familiarize yourself with the game and the rules. You can also try your hand in the different Baccarat variants available at the casino without risking real money.

It’s true that Baccarat is more of a game of chance since you’re just betting during the beginning of the game. This does not, however, mean that you can’t strategize. Make use of the free Baccarat games to come up with your own strategies so that you will increase your chances during real money games. Once you’ve tried this game for free, you will understand why it’s such a well-loved table game.

Play Baccarat on Mobile

Many online casinos now make it possible for you to play Baccarat on the go. Online casinos are now optimized for mobile play. Choose an online casino that offers Baccarat in their mobile version. That way, you can play and win big right in the comfort of your home using your tablet or smartphone. 

Depending on the online casino you’re playing it, the games will either be available for instant play or download, or both. Some online casinos also offer a downloadable app. It’s great if the mobile version also includes live baccarat games so you can enjoy an immersive casino experience in real time.

Conclusion 

Now that you know the things you need to know about Online Baccarat, it’s time to test it out. Remember to only play at online casinos with good reputation. As always, play responsibly and just try to enjoy the game. Relax and have fun.