The object of Baccarat is to bet on one of two hands (either the Player's or the Banker's), as these collection of cards compete to determine which will come closer to nine. In Baccarat "9" is the highest hand. Ten-value cards have zero value. Aces always count as one. If the cards dealt total more than nine on either hand, they acquire the value of the second digit.

For Example: A hand totaling 10 = 0; a hand totaling 17 = 7; 23 = 3; and so on.

The shoe holds eight decks of cards. It is passed around the table from each player to player counter-clockwise, every time a player hand wins. This encourages each player to take an active part in dealing the game. Before cards are dealt from the shoe, everyone places their bet on the side they think will win (Banker or Player). The player with the shoe then deals four cards alternately. Two are designated Player cards; two are designated Bank cards. The croupier announces the total of each hand and, if the rules require, will call for a possible third card for either side. The winning third card for either side is announced, losing bets are collected and winning bets are paid even money.

Player Hand Third Card Rule
When Player's First Two Cards Total:
0-1-2-3-4-5 – Player Draws a Card
6-7 – Player Stands
-- aka a "Natural" Player Stands

Banker
When Bankers First Two Cards Total:
-- Banker draws.
7 – Banker Stands
8, 9 -- aka a "Natural" Banker Stands

All winning bets on the Bank side are assessed a 5% commission. The dealer will keep a running account of your commission which must be paid at the completion of the shoe (you may pay your commission anytime during the game).

There is one other bet option called "tie." You may bet this in conjunction with a Bank or Player wager. If the next hand ties, you will be paid eight to one.

Basic Rules to Remember

If Bank and/or Player hand has eight or nine on first two cards, no further cards are drawn. Player hands having zero to five must draw one card. Player hands having six or seven must stand.
Bank hand stands or draws one card as indicated by the chart. In Mini-Baccarat, the croupier is the only person permitted to deal the cards. The same game rules apply as in Baccarat; however, only up to 9 players can be seated at one time.