Baccarat is a classic card game where you need a combination of strategy and luck to win.
In this article, we'll teach how to play the game and give a few tips along the way.
Let's jump in!
How to play online baccarat

Got this screenshot from this BetSoft video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g1JpoE2UyF8
The good news is that baccarat is a straightforward game that both newbies and experienced players can play. The goal objective of the game is to try to predict which hand, between the player and the banker, will have a higher value or if it will result in a tie.
Online baccarat is played pretty much the same way you would play the game at a physical casino.
Step 1: Understanding the basics
Online baccarat is played with six to eight decks of cards, with each card having a specific value:
- Cards 2 through 9 are worth their face value.
- Ace is worth 1 point.
- 10, Jack, Queen, and King are worth 0 points.
Your hand's value is determined by adding the values of all your cards and keeping only the last digit. For example, if your hand has a total value of 15, it will be counted as 5.
Step 2: Placing your bets
Before the cards are dealt, you must place your bet on either your hand or the banker's hand. You can also choose to bet on a tie between both hands. The minimum and maximum betting limits vary from casino to casino, so make sure to check before placing your bet.
Step 3: Dealing the cards
Once all bets are placed, the cards will be dealt from a shoe, which is similar to a card dispenser. You and the banker each receive two cards facing up. If either hand has a value of 8 or 9, it is considered a natural win, and no additional cards are drawn.
If neither hand has a natural win, a third card may be drawn according to specific rules:
- If your hand has a total value of 5 or less, you must draw an additional card.
- If your hand has a total value of 6 or 7, you must stand.
- If you stand, the banker will draw an additional card if their hand has a total value of 5 or less.
Step 4: Determining the winner
After all cards are drawn, the hand with the highest value wins. Easy, right?
If you bet on the winning hand, you will receive a payout based on your bet. If there is a tie between both hands, bets placed on either hand or a tie will be paid out accordingly.
Different variants of online baccarat
There are different types of online baccarat games (although your casino of choice may not offer all of these), each with its own unique set of rules and features.
Here are some popular variants that you can find at most online casinos:
- Punto Banco: This is the most common variant where the player plays against the banker, with no additional betting options
- Chemin de Fer: In this variant, players take turns to be the banker and have the option to draw a third card
- Baccarat Banque: Similar to Chemin de Fer, except that only one player plays as the banker throughout the entire game
- Live baccarat: Play the game in real time, with a professional dealer present through a live video stream
Gamble responsibility when playing baccarat
You should never gamble more than you can afford to lose and playing baccarat is no different.
Below are a few tips for a safe and fun gaming experience:
- Set a budget before you start playing and stick to it
- Take breaks while playing and do not chase losses
- Don't gamble if you are under the influence of alcohol
- Keep track of your time while playing
- Seek help if you feel like your gambling is getting out of control. Most reputable online casinos offer responsible gambling resources and support for their players.
FAQs About Online Baccarat
Here are some commonly asked questions about online baccarat:
Q: Can I play online baccarat for free?
A: Yes, most online casinos offer the option to play baccarat for free in demo mode before placing real money bets.
Q: Are the odds different in online baccarat compared to traditional casinos?
A: The odds and rules are typically the same in both online and land-based baccarat games.
Q: Can I use a betting strategy while playing online baccarat?
A: Yes, many players use various betting strategies in baccarat, such as the Martingale system or the Paroli system. However, remember that these tacits are not foolproof methods: you can still lose money
A little big of history
The card game known as baccarat originated in Italy during the 15th century. It was originally called "baccara" which means zero, as most of the face cards and tens have a value of zero in the game. Baccarat gained popularity among European nobility and elite classes, with its simple rules and high stakes making it a favorite pastime.
In the 19th century, baccarat spread to France where it became known as "Chemin de Fer" or "chemmy". It was also during this time that baccarat started appearing in casinos, first in France and then in other parts of Europe.
As the game gained popularity, it reached the US and became a favorite among high rollers in casinos. In the 1950s, baccarat was introduced to Las Vegas, where it quickly became a staple in the city's famous casinos.
With the rise of online gambling in the late 20th century, baccarat also made its way into virtual casinos. Today, it is one of the most popular casino games, played by people all over the world. Its glamorous image continues to attract players, particularly high rollers who are drawn to the game's reputation for big wins.
Despite its long and rich history, baccarat remains a simple and exciting game that continues to thrive in both traditional casinos and online platforms. Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting out, it's never too late to join in on the fun of this timeless card game.

Claire Said
Casino Expert

Val C. Martinez
Founder of BettingLadies.com