Baccarat Strategy – How to Reduce the House Edge in Baccarat
Despite its exotic name, Baccarat is a relatively simple card game. Whether wagering on Player or Banker, the goal is to predict which hand will total closest to nine. But as with other casino games, there are strategies to be learned. For example, some players keep score cards and analyze the results to divine patterns, which can help them make smarter decisions. But these patterns and trends aren’t exactly foolproof — and they’re certainly not based on any public-domain math.
Baccarat is a table game with two opposing hands, the player and the banker, which are dealt two cards each, face up and visible to everyone at the table. If the player or banker hand is closer to nine than the other, then the bet wins. If the two hands are equal in value, then a third card may be drawn to determine the winner. But the rules that govern whether and when a third card is drawn are fixed, and players cannot influence them.
In the past, Baccarat was mostly a game for the high rollers, and that’s still partly true. But, according to Bill Zender, a former Nevada Gaming Control Agent and former casino executive, it has also become a favorite game among Asian high rollers. The reason is that baccarat is “a good game to play for money that you would spend on a night out,” and the house edge on banker and player bets is lower than for other casino games, Zender says.
Advanced Baccarat players use a pattern system that helps them reduce the house edge, though it’s not foolproof. The system involves watching the game and looking for double win streaks, which can appear for both the player and banker. Once a player spots one, they can double their bet on the other hand and increase their winnings. But, if they notice three or more consecutive double win streaks, they should quit the game and wait for another opportunity.
Most players will bet on either the player or banker hand, which pays out 1:1. Some will even place a bet on the tie, which pays 8:1 but doesn’t return your original stake. But, while these bets offer big payouts, they also have low odds of landing and a high house edge, which should be taken into consideration when selecting a bet.
Some casinos will create unique side bets, which can have even higher payouts and lower odds of landing. These bets should be carefully considered, as they can easily derail a bankroll. The best way to avoid these side bets is to decide on a budget before starting and stick to it. A good rule of thumb is to set a budget and use 2% of that as your betting unit. This ensures that you’re not risking more money than you can afford to lose. Baccarat is an exciting game, but it can be addictive if you’re not careful. So, always play within your budget and limit your time to 20-minute sessions.