Baccarat is a casino game that exudes refinement and evokes images of men in tuxedos and women in posh evening gowns laying down chips on the table while a dealer distributes cards. Although the game has an enigmatic veneer, it is actually easy to learn and can be played by just about anyone who wants to take a chance. It has a low house edge and offers one of the best payouts for casino games. But it’s not without its risks, so always play responsibly and make smart bets.

Before you start playing baccarat, make sure you understand the rules of the game and how it works. There are only three possible outcomes per hand in baccarat: player, banker, and tie. It is a simple game and is much easier to understand than other casino games, like blackjack or roulette.

After all the players place their bets, the dealer deals two cards to the banker and the player. Then, the cards are compared and the winner is determined. The winner is the hand that is closest to nine points. The game also has a rule that prevents either hand from getting more than three cards. The dealer will collect any lost bets and pay winning bets. The dealer will also take a 5% commission on the winning banker bets.

In addition to the basic rules of baccarat, there are several betting strategies that can help you increase your chances of winning. The most popular of these is the Martingale system, which involves progressively increasing your bets as you lose. It is a strategy that works well in most casino games that pay even money, including baccarat. However, it is important to remember that gambling can be addictive, and you should set spending limits before you start playing.

Baccarat is also known for its side bets, which can add to your winnings. For example, the Super Six Bet pays out 12x your bet amount if the Banker wins with a total of 6 points. Another popular bet is the Pair Bet, which rewards players if the first two cards are a pair.

The simplest way to play baccarat is by placing a bet on the Banker’s hand. The banker’s hand has a lower house edge and wins more often than the player’s hand. If you want to maximize your profits, try to avoid the Tie bet, which is more expensive and has a low return on investment.