Your Guide to Online Baccarat

If you prefer casino table games with simple rules, favourable odds and fast-paced gameplay, you’ll love online baccarat. The game is one of the oldest found at land-based casinos and has since become a popular option at online gambling sites.

In this review, we’ll explore the rules of online baccarat and its growing popularity in mobile casinos.

Basics of Online Baccarat

The original baccarat game was invented by Italians in the 15th Century. Back then, the gameplay revolved around four dealers and players placing bets against themselves. Today, this popular card game simply involves betting against the house. Over the years, baccarat games have gained wide acceptance internationally, but are particularly popular in Asia.

Baccarat is the perfect choice for all casino players since it is so easy to learn. Not only are the rules straightforward, but it offers one of the lowest house edges of all table games. In short, online baccarat promises plenty of excitement and potential rewards in one fell swoop. 

Rules of Online Baccarat

There are four common forms of online baccarat worldwide, namely Mini Baccarat, Punto Banco, Baccarat Banque and Chemin de Fer. Regardless of the variant, all baccarat titles have the same basic rules. Here they are:

• Cards numbered 2 to 9 maintain their face value. However, 10s and face cards are all worth zero;
• Depending on your card values, you will either draw or stand;
• The winner is the player with the hand worth closest to 9.

Different Types of Online Baccarat

You can play baccarat in several different game modes. Each variation still promises the same thrilling gameplay, but they differ in terms of real money wins and interaction with players. Most casinos have free, RNG and live dealer baccarat options. Below is an outline of what to expect from each type of online baccarat. 

Free Baccarat

It is possible to play free baccarat online at most casinos, thanks to their demonstration mode. This is useful for new players who wish to learn the rules. You can play this completely risk-free and without the need for real money bets. Essentially, you play against a computer opponent as the dealer as a form of practice before you fully understand the gameplay elements. 

Most variants of online baccarat are available in free play mode and you can find them at online casinos. However, this comes with several limitations. The most significant of all is that you cannot win real money, which is a somewhat frustrating way to play gambling games. 

RNG Baccarat Software

Moving away from the downsides of free baccarat, RNG software is an option for players who wish to win real money. It features Random Number Generator technology which ensures that the game outcomes are fair and unbiased. Most casinos offering RNG baccarat games offer low house edges and RTP values. 

The main advantage of playing RNG baccarat compared to free play is the potential for real money wins. However, these days, the graphics and animation of such titles feels outdated, delivering a less lucid experience than you’d expect. Further, you only play against a computer opponent, which makes for an isolated experience. 

Live Dealer Baccarat 

Compared to other types of baccarat, live casino games are the perfect pick if you want something that ticks all boxes. Firstly, live dealer baccarat allows you to compete against other human players via video streaming in an authentic casino environment. You’ll enjoy high definition graphics, real sounds and charismatic croupiers that chat as you play.

In addition, live baccarat titles are independently tested and certified as being fair. But since they also offer a low house edge, your long-term chances of winning are favourable. Further, you’ll find multiple interesting side bets with these games, making them even more exciting and rewarding.

There are several top live dealer casino providers in the industry who frequently win awards for their innovative games. Pragmatic Play are among the bigger suppliers and their Speed Baccarat is certainly worth a look if you enjoy high-tempo action. Alternatively, you could try Live Baccarat by Ezugi for a more traditional approach. 

However, Evolution is undoubtedly the leading live casino provider. With more than a dozen live baccarat titles in their catalogue, few can compare. Lightning Baccarat is especially interesting, with its random multipliers leading to potentially huge payouts.

Online Baccarat and Mobile Casinos

Today, you can explore the very best of live dealer baccarat games from the comfort of your own home. Top-class live casino suppliers such as Evolution provide their services to plenty of mobile casinos, such as Mr Mega and Betiton. 

By joining such sites, you can play via smartphone and tablet, either in your browser or via an app. But perhaps best of all, their online baccarat games are fully optimised for mobile display and functionality.

So you won’t miss out on the HD graphics, sounds or the betting options and bonuses found at the desktop casino.