New to baccarat? You’re not alone. This elegant card game may look intimidating at first, but it’s one of the simplest games you’ll find in any casino. Whether you’re playing in Manila’s luxury resorts or through an online casino app, baccarat is fast, low-stress, and surprisingly beginner-friendly.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to play baccarat, break down the card values, explain the rules in plain English, and walk you through the payout odds.
What Is Baccarat?
Baccarat, meaning “zero,” is a card game where two hands face off — the Player and the Banker. It’s also known as punto banco, and your only job is to bet on which hand will get closest to 9. That’s it.
You can bet on:
- Player
- Banker
- Tie
The hand that gets a point total closest to 9 wins.
Card Values in Baccarat
Here’s how each card is counted:
- Ace = 1 point
- 2–9 = Face value
- 10, Jack, Queen, King = 0 points
- If the total is two digits, only the last digit counts.
- Example: 7 + 6 = 13 → The hand is worth 3
This is why it’s called baccarat — a total of 0 is the lowest possible hand.
How to Play Baccarat: Step-by-Step
- Place Your Bet
Choose to bet on Player, Banker, Tie, or side bets like Pair or BSS-Pair. - Cards Are Dealt
Two hands are dealt: one to the Player, one to the Banker. - Natural Win Check
If either hand totals 8 or 9, it’s called a natural, and no more cards are drawn. That hand automatically wins. - Third Card Rule (Optional Reading)
- If no natural occurs, the Player may draw a third card if their total is 0–5.
- The Banker may also draw depending on the Player’s third card.
- Don’t worry — the dealer handles this automatically.
- Winning Hand Declared
The hand closest to 9 wins. If both hands have the same total, it’s a Tie.
Baccarat Payout Odds
| Bet Type | Payout |
|---|---|
| Player | 1:1 |
| Banker (Non-Commission) | 1:1 |
| Banker (Commission) | 1:1 (less 5%) |
| Tie | 8:1 |
| Pair | 11:1 |
| BSS-Pair | 5:1 |
Key Things to Remember
- Baccarat has only three outcomes: Player win, Banker win, or Tie.
- The game is automatic — the dealer handles all drawing rules.
- No skill is needed — just place your bet and enjoy the ride.
- Banker bet usually has the best odds, even with the 5% commission.
- Avoid the Tie bet unless you love high risk.
Why Filipino Players Love Baccarat
It’s fast, easy, and gives you better odds than most table games. There’s a reason baccarat is a top pick at casinos like Solaire, City of Dreams, and across online platforms in the Philippines. It offers clean rules, quick rounds, and real winning potential — even for total beginners.
Now that you know how to play baccarat, you’re ready to take a seat at the table — virtual or otherwise. Stick to simple bets, play within your budget, and let the cards fall where they may. Win or lose, baccarat offers one of the smoothest and most exciting casino experiences around.
