Baccarat is a card game with an aura of mystery that brings to mind images of high-rollers playing luxurious casino pits, yet its rules can be learned easily and played for very little money. According to Forbes Passport author Bill Zender, casino industry has seen considerable benefits from the growing popularity of baccarat as it provides an exciting alternative to more conventional casino games like blackjack and roulette.

Baccarat can be played by anywhere between seven and 14 players with one dealer, dealing two hands of cards to each participant at the table and analyzing their point values; picture or face cards count zero points while cards numbered 2-9 carry their respective values; an Ace always scores one point; when all totals for both hands have been determined, the one closest to nine wins the game.

There are three different bets available when playing baccarat: Player’s Bet, Banker’s Bet and Tie Bet. Each pays out at 9:1, 8:1 or 9:9 depending on which hand wins; tie bets provide 9:9 returns if game ends up tied.

There are three primary bets in baccarat; additionally there are Super Six Bets and Pair Bets which pay out when either Player or Banker first two cards form a pair and Pair Bets pay out when both first cards share equal rank. When betting baccarat it is wiser to stick to either Player or Banker bets while avoiding Tie bets which carry a 14.1% house edge; smart players know not to place this bet.

Before beginning baccarat play, it’s wise to set a loss limit in advance and stop when your limit has been met. This helps avoid getting carried away with the excitement of the game and losing more than can afford to lose. Similar strategies apply when playing poker – set how much you intend on spending for one night then stop when your limit has been met.