Baccarat is a card game that features the highest payouts of any casino table game. It’s also popular for its simplicity of play, making it one of the most accessible table games available in a casino. In addition to the main bets, baccarat can also feature a variety of side bets with different payouts and odds of winning. These bets are often referred to as ‘spot bets’ and can have an enormous effect on your bankroll.

The aim of baccarat is to get your hand (whether the player or banker) as close as possible to nine points. The score is determined by the total of the pips on each card: aces are worth 1 point, nines are worth zero, and other cards have their values as indicated on the chart below. The maximum hand value is nine, although it may be a tie when neither the player nor the banker can make a 9.

As with all casino games, it’s important to set a betting limit for yourself before playing baccarat. This way, if you lose a few hands in a row, you can walk away without having spent all your money. This is especially important if you’re playing a live dealer game, where the minimum bet can be as high as $100.

There are several different types of baccarat tables, including a nine-person table that is designed for larger parties and a mini version that can seat up to six players. Many of these tables feature a unique layout and seating arrangements to create a more immersive experience. For example, the mini baccarat table may feature round seats in a circle and a larger rectangular layout for the main area. Some even offer a lounge setting with couches and drinks.

While it’s not necessary to have a baccarat strategy, some players do prefer to follow specific patterns in the game. A common strategy is to start with flat betting, then use a score sheet to track results. This method allows you to see if there are any trends in the game and determine which side to bet on next.

Those who correctly predict the winning player or banker hand will receive a payout of 1:1. However, those who bet on the banker hand must pay a 5% commission to the house, which reduces the payout odds to 19 to 20. Winning tie bets qualify for 8-to-1 payouts.

As with other casino games, baccarat has spawned variations and new ways to bet and play. These include Mini Baccarat, which has a smaller betting area and fewer rules than the traditional game. It’s also available online and in some land-based casinos, where players place their chips on a small circular table. A dealer then deals the cards, and the winner is declared when a hand is closest to 9 points. Players can also bet on a tie, but this wager is less likely to pay out.