Baccarat is a casino game that has taken the gambling world by storm. Its low house edge and simple rules have made it popular among players of all skill levels, and the game has earned a reputation for elegance. It’s also a great option for those with a limited bankroll because the game can be played with small bets.

There are many different versions of baccarat, but the game is generally played with six standard decks of cards and a table. There are from seven to 14 seats for players and a dealer’s area. The Player and Banker hands are dealt two cards each, and the hand that is closest to nine wins. Picture cards are worth zero points, while those numbered from 2-9 are worth their face value. Aces are worth one point. Once the points value reaches a double digit, drop the first number and use the second to determine the winner.

When you play baccarat, it’s important to understand how the game works and its betting options. The game has a few side bets that can offer larger payouts, but these should only be placed when you are confident in your knowledge of the game and have sufficient funds. It’s also worth noting that the game has a 20% Lightning Fee, which is added to winning bets.

Once the bets have been placed, the dealer will deal the cards and reveal them. Then, he will pay out the winning bets. If you are a winning Banker, the dealer will collect your bet and place it in a commission box. This is how the casino makes money from baccarat.

It is thought that baccarat originated in Italy, where Felix Falguiere created the game. He is believed to have based it on an Etruscan legend about a virgin who had to throw a nine-sided die to decide her fate. If she threw an 8 or 9, she was elevated to the status of a priestess; however, if she threw lower than 6, she was banished to the sea to drown.

The game of baccarat has since spread from Italy to France, where it was popular among the aristocracy. It then moved to America in the 19th century, where it became an instant hit. Today, the game is played in casinos and other luxury venues around the world.

It’s important to set a budget for yourself before you start playing baccarat. This will help you avoid getting carried away and losing all your money. It’s also a good idea to treat this as an expense, not as a way to get rich. A good rule of thumb is to only spend as much as you would on a night out, and never bet more than you can afford to lose. You’ll have a lot more fun and be more likely to win if you play responsibly.