Baccarat is one of the most popular casino games. From sticky-floor California card rooms to tuxedo-laden casinos in Monaco, the game attracts players from around the world and generates over 80% of all casino profits. Its popularity stems, in part, from the fact that baccarat is relatively easy to play and requires no complex strategies to win.

In a nutshell, the game involves betting on the hand that is closest to nine. The Player or Banker hands are dealt cards by the dealer and whichever is closest to 9 wins. If neither the Player or Banker has a total of 9, the tie bet pays 8-to-1. A score sheet is available at the table for players to keep track of the results. The game is so popular that it has generated a number of variations and side bets including Mini Baccarat.

The rules of baccarat vary slightly between the “punto banco” and the “chemin de fer” versions of the game, but they all share the same basic principles. The game is played with either six or eight decks of standard 52-cards.

The game’s simplicity and ease of play make it one of the most popular games in the world. Its success has generated a wide range of betting systems designed to maximize winning streaks. These baccarat betting systems are typically divided into two types: pattern systems and strategy systems. Both are effective and can significantly improve your chances of winning.