Easy, profitable, fun and with the excitement soaring. That’s how we could describe Baccarat! The game is a very common choice among casino table game enthusiasts. Although it has its roots in France, the name of the game comes from the Italian, and it has a very long and interesting history behind it. If you’re interested in learning more about one of the most popular games, Baccarat, then you’re in the right place! Below, we unravel the history of Baccarat and mention some of its key features.
Baccarat: One of the oldest games
One of the most exciting aspects of this game is that it is one of the oldest games you can play in a casino. According to reports, the game began in the 1400s in France. In reality, however, it took about 500 years for the game to spread and become a popular choice among players.
In the intervening period, the game evolved and managed to reach its current form. Baccarat today is undoubtedly one of the most classic games you will find in any casino around the world. It is also worth mentioning that, thanks to the development of online gaming, players can play the game from any place and at any time. The game, which started as a way of entertaining the French kings, is nowadays one of the most enjoyable options in casinos.
Origin of name
Baccarat has its roots in France, but the paradox is that its name is Italian. In fact, the name Baccarat translates as zero. This name was chosen as a reference to the zero values of the following cards: tens, jacks, queens, and kings. The name also refers to the fact that a hand that equals ten, for example seven and three, has a zero value.
Baccarat: The spread of the game
If you’re looking for a game that can keep the excitement high and deliver big wins, Baccarat will not disappoint. Although it is one of the oldest games, it has taken some time to become a favorite of players all over the world. In fact, Baccarat overshadowed another, quite popular game, blackjack.
The history of the game shows how it started to become popular in Cuba. The Cubans had given it the name Punto Banco, which means dealer and player. In this form, the game crossed the border and spread to the United States, mainly thanks to the famous artist Frank Sinatra, who popularized Baccarat in Las Vegas.
Variants
As the game became popular, it wasn’t long before the first variations of the game appeared. It is worth noting that, some of them were and still are quite popular such as Baccarat Chiming de Far, Baccarat Banquet, and of course Punto Banco. In all its variants, Baccarat features the same rules. Essentially, the only thing that changes is the way the cards are dealt.
The most famous variant is the Mini Baccarat/punto banco game, and is available in both physical and online casinos. In this particular version, the dealer has all the cards of the deck at his disposal and players can bet on one of three possible outcomes. Mini Baccarat offers smaller bets, which makes it quite popular, even among novices.
Baccarat: How to play
Like all table games, in Baccarat there is a dealer. The game starts with the deal of cards. Each player, and the dealer, will be dealt two cards which are face up. The object of the game is to accumulate a total that is as close to 9 as possible.
There are 3 betting options that you can make.
1) You can bet that the player will get close to 9. If this happens, your winnings are double your bet.
2) You can bet that the dealer will win. If the dealer wins, you win 95% of your bet.
3) You can bet on a draw. This bet pays out at a ratio of 8 to 1.
If the sum of the cards on the table is greater than 9, then you will have to cancel the first digit or the second digit to get the final value. That is, from a sum equal to 18, you would subtract 1 and keep the number 8.
Additional tips
Before you can play Baccarat and enjoy it, there are a few more things you need to know. If the dealer and player have a total of eight or nine, then they both win. Also, if the total is less than five, then the player is entitled to another card; otherwise, they must proceed with what they have. You should also be aware that although the goal is to get to 8 or 9 with two cards, there are cases where you are entitled to a third. So, you should keep your eyes open.
In conclusion
It is no coincidence that Baccarat is a fairly popular game. Although it started as one of the first games, its spread was delayed. Gradually players came to love it as it has all the elements that are necessary for an exciting game. Suspense, twists, twists, chances of big wins and much more create a game that is capable of piquing your interest. So if you are looking for something similar, start playing Baccarat when you feel comfortable with the rules of the game.
Baccarat is definitely one of the most enjoyable games you’ll find in a casino. But the best way to practice before you join other players at the table is to play the game online. Register at NetBet Casino today via your mobile, tablet or computer and enjoy the unique action that the game gives, as well as a host of casino classics like roulette and Blackjack, plus hundreds of online slots to enjoy.
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