Baccarat is one of the most popular casino games in the world. It looks serious and intimidating, but it is actually very easy to learn and has a low house edge. It has become the game of choice for high rollers and is often played in a special alcove, blocked off from the rest of the casino action. It is also the only casino game that is played with actual cash rather than chips.

Players can bet on the player’s hand, the banker’s hand, or a tie. There are also a number of side bets available, although these are not recommended because they generally have high house edges and are unlikely to win.

To start the game, eight 52-card packs are shuffled and dealt by a croupier from a shoe. The croupier then places the cards in a circular layout with the presiding dealer (known as the “caller”) standing in the center of the table. The caller then reads the cards and announces the results of each hand.

The goal of baccarat is to get a hand as close to 9 as possible without going over. The point value of a hand is determined by adding the values of each of the two cards in the hand. For example, an 8 and a 7 adds up to 15, but you drop the first digit, leaving a 5 as the score of the hand.

When a player is dealt two cards, they look at them and then toss them to the caller using a device called a paddle. The caller then sets them on the table with a label that states the total of the Player’s Hand. The player then either stands or draws a third card depending on the outcome of the second card.

There are a few rules that must be followed to play the game correctly. For starters, it is important to understand that the croupier and the banker are both playing against the players, not each other. The Banker is required to follow certain strict rules, while the Player must abide by other rules that are designed to prevent cheating and dishonesty.

In addition to these general rules, there are a few other important considerations for those who want to maximize their chances of winning. For example, it is a good idea to keep track of past hands and their outcomes. This will help you make more informed decisions in the future. Additionally, it is a good idea to set limits for both your bet amounts and your play time.

Baccarat is a simple game with only three main wagering options. It is not as complex as blackjack or roulette, which have many different betting options and a multitude of strategies. However, there are a few basic tips that will improve your odds of winning and help you have more fun playing this exciting casino game. The most important thing to remember is that Baccarat is a game of chance, so you should always bet responsibly and never gamble with money that you cannot afford to lose.