Baccarat is one of the most famous casino games. After all, the game is played in high-roller rooms, surrounded by other high-rollers and it’s dealt with real cash (though in American casinos players use $100 bills). It’s slow, ritualistic, and has some of the most luxurious trappings of any casino game.

While many players think they have cracked the code to guaranteed success in baccarat, it’s a game of chance. That said, there are some strategies that can help you reduce your house edge and maximize your time at the table.

The first step to winning at baccarat is understanding the rules of the game. The game is based on the simple principle that the hand closest to nine wins the round. The Banker and Player hands are dealt two cards each from a dealing shoe, with sometimes a third card added to either or both hands. Then, the winner is determined based on the total value of the hand.

There are several different betting options, and it’s important to understand each one. A Banker win will pay out 9 for 1 while a tie will pay out 8 to 1. Some players also bet on the runner, which pays out at 7 for 1 and is more likely to produce a winning result. This strategy can be risky and should only be used by experienced baccarat players. Be careful not to get carried away and overspend – only wager what you can afford to lose.