The game of baccarat is one of the most popular table games in Las Vegas. The game has a low house edge and is simple to learn. Its popularity has generated variations of the game and additional ways to wager, including side bets and Mini Baccarat.

Unlike blackjack or roulette, which have multiple betting options, baccarat has only three bets: Player Win, Banker Win and Tie. The goal is to predict which hand will have a total closest to nine points. Cards are dealt from a deck of eight or six, and the suits have no relevance in the game. Picture cards and tens are worth zero points, while cards from 2 through 9 have their face value, and aces are worth one point. If the sum of two cards is higher than a digit of 9, the second digit is used as the score.

Players place their bets before the cards are dealt and may choose to bet on either the Player or Banker hand. A bet on the Tie option is also available and pays out 8-to-1. Depending on the rules of a particular venue, the Player or Banker hand may be required to draw a third card.

Although the game has an advantageous house edge, it is a high-risk proposition. In order to minimize losses, it is best to practice good stake management. Staking 10 units for each wager and playing no more than 200 units per session (followed by a break) is a good strategy.

Baccarat is a very social game, and it is not uncommon for people to place side bets while playing the main game. These bets can greatly increase the excitement of the game and add to the overall enjoyment. However, players should keep in mind that these bets are not considered part of the main game and they should be played separately from the player’s bankroll.

In addition to its famous glassware, Baccarat has a long history of producing monumental lighting fixtures for exhibitions and royalty around the world. In the 19th Century, the company astonished audiences with its elaborate opaline glass vases and candelabra stems, which were completed in a green-tinted crystal known as malachite.

While many people associate Baccarat with high rollers and the rich, it is a game that anyone can enjoy. While there are some rules that can be somewhat complicated, baccarat is an easy and fun game to play. It is not as complicated to understand as blackjack or poker, and it requires far less thought and analysis. It is a great choice for beginners and those who want to relax and enjoy a casino game without the stress of thinking too much. In addition, the game’s simplicity means that a round can be completed rather quickly. It is a great way to experience the best of Las Vegas without overspending.