Baccarat is a game that requires an understanding of the rules and strategy before you can play. It is a game of choice for high rollers and casino VIPs. It is also an increasingly popular online game. Baccarat is a table game, where players place chips on either the Player, Banker, or Tie bets. The dealer then deals two cards to each hand. The one closest to nine wins the round. In some cases, a third card may be drawn if the first hand does not total eight or nine.

The goal is to wager on which hand will come closer to nine, while keeping your bets low enough that you don’t break the bank. In the case of a tie, the bets are returned. You can find a score sheet at the baccarat table, which will allow you to keep track of each hand’s ranking. However, don’t place too much importance on the score, as it is more a reflection of luck than a strategy.

A ten and an ace equals nine, while all other cards count at their face value. The game is usually played with a six- or eight-deck shoe, but some casinos use a smaller deck to cut down on house edge. If you play baccarat online, you should look for games that use fewer decks, as these tend to have lower variance and lessen the impact of unfortunate losing streaks.

High rollers are flocking to baccarat for a few reasons. First, it is a classic game, and high rollers enjoy the experience of playing a classic. Second, it is a game that offers low house edges, with an average of only 1.2 percent on the banker and player bets. A third bet, the tie, pays out eight to one, but it is a sucker’s bet that most serious players avoid.

Bill Zender, a former Nevada Gaming Control agent and former executive who literally wrote the book on managing casino games, says that Asian high rollers have made baccarat their game of choice because it suits their cultural preferences. He adds that the game has become especially attractive to high rollers because it offers a low house edge compared to other casino games. It also gives players the opportunity to place large bets on the player and banker, which is not a game for novices. However, he warns that the game’s high volatility can catch up to players over time, so it is important to set limits on your gaming sessions and stick to them. Lastly, you should play short sessions and be sure to practice in free games before betting real money on baccarat. This will help you develop a solid strategy without risking too much money. It is also a good idea to choose a reputable online casino that accepts your preferred payment methods. This way, you can be confident that you are getting the best possible odds. Baccarat is an exciting and rewarding game that can give you a great gaming experience without breaking your bank account.