Baccarat is a casino game with an aura of sophistication, almost as though it’s out of the reach of all but the wealthiest casino patrons. Yet, it’s a very simple game to play, and there are several ways to reduce the house edge. But first, it’s important to understand the game and how it works.

Baccarat originated in the gambling salons of Italy and France in the 1400s, but it never caught on with the general casino crowd the way roulette or slot machines did. As a result, it was often played by the elite for centuries, and the game’s culture and traditions developed around its unique customs, terminology, and formalities. These elements are what make baccarat so distinctive, and they contribute to a more enjoyable playing experience for everyone.

One such tradition is the use of a special table cloth. It’s white with a red rose pattern, and it signifies the high-roller status of the player. In addition, the table is draped with a special cloth when there’s a tie between the Banker and the Player. The purpose is to create an atmosphere of elegance and prestige, which accentuates the high-stakes nature of the game.

Another baccarat tradition is the use of a betting system that adjusts the size of a player’s bet each time they lose. A popular method is called the Martingale System, where a player increases their bet size after each loss until they win. This can lead to large losses over the long term, so it’s best to set a budget in advance and stick to it.

A less common baccarat betting strategy is the Labouchere System, which adjusts the bet size based on a Fibonacci sequence. Every number in the sequence adds up to two numbers ahead of it, so players increase their bets by increments of $1 each time they lose. This method can lead to more consistent winnings than the Martingale System, but it’s important to remember that a single loss can wipe out your entire bankroll.

The most important thing to keep in mind when playing baccarat is that the game’s odds are predetermined. Even the most savvy betting strategies can’t change these odds, and it’s essential to remember that responsible gambling is a priority. If you’re feeling lucky, it’s always a good idea to play with cash rather than credit cards.

The Player’s and Banker’s hands each receive two cards, and the winner is the hand that gets closer to nine points than the other. Picture and Ten cards are worth zero points, while numbered cards count their face value and the ace is worth one point. Once the total reaches a double-digit, the first digit is dropped. This is known as “edge sorting.” In 2012, Phil Ivey used edge sorting to win around $10 million from two casinos, but his winning streak was short-lived. Edge sorting isn’t illegal, but casinos may not be happy to pay out winnings if they suspect you’re doing it.