Baccarat is one of the world’s most popular casino games. Its roots extend deep into Asian culture, with superstitions and a sense of fate determining whether a player’s hand will win or lose. Baccarat’s popularity has also grown among high rollers in the US. The game’s simple rules and low minimum bet make it the least intimidating of all casino games, allowing players to quickly learn the basics and enjoy a smooth gambling experience.
According to Bill Zender, a former Nevada Gaming Control Agent who literally wrote the book on managing casino games, baccarat’s rise is due in large part to Asian high rollers. “Over the past twenty years, baccarat has almost universally made itself the game of choice for the high rollers,” he says. Among other things, this shift is likely driven by the fact that baccarat pays out more money than most other casino table games.
In addition to being the most profitable table game, baccarat also has a low house edge of 1%-1.5%. In addition, players’ bets don’t impact other players’ decisions and the round of play is completed in just seconds. These advantages have helped baccarat become the game of choice for many new and casual casino players.
The game is very easy to understand and involves betting on the hand that you think will come closest to nine. The value of each hand is determined by adding the values of each card and removing the tens digit. All number cards and picture cards are worth 0 points, Aces count as one point, and all other cards count as their face value. If a player or banker hand totals eight or nine, that hand wins. If neither hand totals eight or nine, a tie is the result.
Baccarat has a long and rich history, having been played in Europe for centuries and recently making its way into the US. The game has evolved over time to adapt to new markets and cultural preferences. For example, Asian players prefer to bet in smaller denominations, and it is important for management to recognize this preference when making change for higher-denomination chips or bills. When changing $100, for example, it is best to give the customer eight chips-four $25 chips and five $5 chips rather than four $50 chips.
The Maison’s steadfast commitment to artisanal excellence has led it to develop crystal solutions that continue to push the boundaries of craftsmanship. Its master craftsmen work tirelessly to transform traditional techniques into innovative products, while remaining faithful to the ancestral knowledge that has enabled them to master a vast array of complex skills for more than 500 years. With a legacy of uncompromising excellence, Baccarat remains at the forefront of innovation, inspiring the next generation of artisans and fostering its enduring global presence. This story was originally published in Forbes Passport, the luxury travel and lifestyle publication of Forbes. Subscribe to Forbes Passport for free today! Click here to learn more.