Online Baccarat Strategy
A reliable baccarat strategy is generally considered a falsehood rather than a reality among gamblers. Although you may often hear people asserting that they have devised the `perfect` strategy, Baccarat is essentially a game of chance and there is relatively little the player can do strategically to improve the odds.
However, there are several central things to remember when playing baccarat that will help you to make correct decisions and play more intelligently; and therefore, increase your chances of success.
Consider the following questions and answers if you want to become a better player:
Is pattern spotting an effective strategy or superstitious hogwash?
Use the scoreboard! You will undoubtedly often see some players make use of the pencil and chart provided by most casinos, keeping track of previous hands and trying to determine if there is a pattern. Erroneously, if they believe there is a pattern, they will change their betting in order to take advantage of a streak. The casino encourages this because they know it has no bearing on the game. In Baccarat, as in most other games,based on luck and fortune no hand can have influence on a following hand. Illogically you will see many other players marking their scorecard, pay no attention to this. After all, do you think the casinos would really provide everyone with something that would help the customers win more money?! Surely Not!!
Which type of game favours the player?
Some tables use different numbers of decks. You can maximize returns by playing baccarat with single decks which offer the best mathematical return (about 1% house edge) for the banker bet, representing the best return possible for any bets in any form of baccarat.
The Tie bet has great payout odds. When is the best time to wager on it?
Never! Avoid it like the plague. No matter what you hear, the Tie is NOT a great option. Although the payout is considerably more than the player and banker bets, and therefore more enticing, it is not a good idea. The house edge on tie bets is at least 5%. Smart gamblers do not bet on the tie.
Considering the odds, should you always bet on the banker?
Technically yes - practically, perhaps not. Looking at the numbers, the odds are always better if you bet on the banker. This baccarat strategy would be unquestionably dull, and you wouldn't be encouraged to be playing for very long. Remember, the house does have an edge, even though it is relatively small for baccarat. This means that in the long run the house will win, undeniably. To minimize the house edge, it is advisable to bet on the banker. However, most people play baccarat for its fun and whimsical nature.
Important note: Practice first before wagering! Almost all online casinos offer the game in both the practice mode and the betting mode. It is always a good idea to practice your chosen game in free play mode as it gives you the opportunity to check out their software before you start playing for money.