Baccarat (pronounced bakrt, ba:krat) is one of the world’s oldest casino games. It started in medieval Italy and made its way to France, where it was a favorite among the aristocracy. It has since spread to casinos all over the world. Its elegance and posh reputation has made it a staple of the high-end casino scene. In fact, it is so popular that it has even made its way into pop culture. Smooth and suave fictional spy James Bond is a big fan of the game.

In baccarat, two cards are dealt to the Player and Banker hands. The hand with a total closest to nine wins. A third card is drawn if either of the initial hands hits 9 but not 8 or if it totals more than 9. The rules for when the Player and Banker should draw a third card are predetermined and not up to players to decide.

The simplest way to play baccarat is to place bets on the Player or Banker hand, and leave the rest up to the dealer. Each hand is dealt two cards face up, so everyone can see them. The goal is to get closer to nine than the other hand. The Player and Banker hands can win in any number of ways, but they cannot tie. The game can have different side bets, like the 9:1 payout on winning tie bets, which can offer high payouts but low odds of landing and a high house edge.

It is important to understand the rules of baccarat before you sit down to play. A lot of people think the game is complicated but it really isn’t. The rules are simple, and the gameplay is easy to follow. Baccarat is a game of chance, but you can learn about the rules and strategies before you start playing.

Before you play baccarat, make sure you set your bankroll and gambling limits. This will help you avoid losing too much money and ensure that you play responsibly. It is also a good idea to know the risk-reward ratio of the game before you start betting.

The game of baccarat has many variations, and the table sizes and betting limits can vary. Some tables are smaller and only seat three or four players, while others can accommodate up to 20 or more. Some casinos offer side bets, which can increase the stakes and the excitement of the game. Other games can be played on mobile devices. This is a great option for those who do not want to sit down at a table and wait for a seat. It is also possible to play baccarat online, which offers the same excitement and thrills as playing in person. There are many sites that allow you to play baccarat for free before making real money bets. However, you should be careful to choose a reputable site. The best online baccarat websites have secure connections and are licensed in your jurisdiction.