Online Baccarat
Playing Baccarat is as fun as playing any other casino game. As long as you know the rules and have an idea of the gameplay, you should have as much fun as you possibly can. Today, there are several online Baccarat sites to choose from, making it a bit difficult to quickly find the right one. Luckily, we have done all the work for you and listed them all out. They have been sorted based on their best features and what they have to offer. We even added more general information about the game to help newbies.
- Choosing the Best Online Baccarat Sites
- What is Baccarat?
- What to Consider When Choosing a Baccarat Site
- How to Play Online Baccarat
- Baccarat Strategies
- Types of Baccarat Games
- Variations of Baccarat
- Free Baccarat vs Real Money Baccarat
- Live Baccarat Online
- Baccarat Bonuses
- Advantages of Online Baccarat
- Is Online Baccarat Legal in Ireland?
- Payment Methods Available at Online Baccarat Sites
- Top Online Baccarat Software Providers in Ireland
- Conclusion
Choosing the Best Online Baccarat Sites
Choosing the best sites for any game you like can be a drag. There are many sites and software providers to choose from, and this makes the process much more difficult. Some sites give you a heads-up on the gameplay and the experience they offer their players. However, you should not leave your decision to the advert used by these sites. You need a reliable method that leaves no stone unturned. A method that checks even the customer support as intensely as the licenses present. Here are some factors you should consider.
- License and Security: all casinos need reputable licenses in order to fully function online or on land. Common licenses to look out for are the MGA, GGC, and UKGC. These licensing bodies make sure that these online casinos follow all the standards and are safe for players to use. You must always confirm that the Baccarat site you want to play on has all the legal permissions to operate in Ireland. This is mostly for your own safety. You should also check for data protection certification while assessing licenses. Most top Baccarat sites use SSL encryption technology to ensure that the third party has no access to the data of the players on the site. Once a Baccarat site is certified with SSL encryption and reputable licenses, they are deemed safe to play on.
- Payment Methods: many players overlook this because they are more concerned about the games. However, the payment methods present on a Baccarat site says a lot about the site. If you find payment methods that are not popular, then you should be wary about the safety of the platform. This involves both withdrawals and deposits. Getting your wins fast and securely is as important as gaming. A good casino always offers reliable and popular payment methods. This is not only for security but for convenience. Casinos that do not offer good payment methods should not be considered at all.
- Variety of Games: only the top Baccarat sites offer several variants of the game to their players. The more the number of Baccarat variants you find on the site, the higher the site should rank on your list. However, quantity and quality are not to be confused with each other. Do well to also check the software providers present on the Baccarat site. The best sites usually have partnerships with the leading software providers in the industry. Baccarat sites with games from these providers are usually also the best in the industry.
- Bonuses: this is the icing on the cake when searching for the best Baccarat site. They must offer high-quality games and immersive features, but also leave some room for bonuses. These sites should offer bonuses to both new and old players. New players should get welcome bonuses when they sign up. Old players must also get loyalty bonuses and VIP bonuses after playing on the site for a while. If the Baccarat site does not offer any of these bonuses, then do not even bother joining them. Make sure to keep an eye out for these bonuses when making your choice.
What is Baccarat?
Baccarat is one of the oldest card games in history. It dates as far back as the 15th century and was played differently in comparison to the modern version. Back then, players bet against each other and the winner was the player with the highest score. The modern version involves betting against a dealer and originated not too long after the original version. In this modern version, you can either win, lose or tie with the dealer.
This modern version is known as the Punto Banco, and it is the template most other variants follow. However, there are still some variants that still follow the format of the original version. One thing that they all have in common is that they both require you to win by having the hand with the highest score. The highest score you can get is a 9. If the total of cards on your hand sums up to a double-digit, then the scoring process changes instantly. Your new score would be the number on the right. For example, having a pair of 7s equals 14. Since 4 is on the right side, your new score is 4.
What to Consider When Choosing a Baccarat Site
Baccarat is a very popular casino game and is very fun if you know how to play it. However, the level of fun depends on the Baccarat site you are on. Some sites do their best to offer high quality, realistic gameplay to their players. While some others focus solely on their live casinos. This now creates a dilemma of choosing the right Baccarat site. Lucky for you, there are a few things you can take a look at.
- Live Dealer or Not: the presence of a live casino is the game-changer. The top Baccarat sites offer the live dealer version of the game. This version is more realistic and allows you to play at a real casino table. However, you need to bear in mind that this requires a fast and stable internet connection. Regardless, Baccarat sites should give players the option to choose if they want to play live dealer games or not.
- Minimum and Maximum Bets: Baccarat is usually played by the elite, thanks to the James Bond movie bumping its popularity. However, this does not mean that the average player should not enjoy a game or two. Some Baccarat sites allow players to play with limits as low as €1. While it is no news that live dealer games have higher limits than computer game variants.
- Dealer Rules: The rules of any game are as important as the game itself. If you do not follow these rules, you might struggle to get a grasp of the game. This is why you should get familiar with the betting options and how they favour you. For instance, betting on a dealer’s hand might seem like a profitable venture. But you should know that you have to pay a 5% commission on the dealer’s wins.
- Multiplayer Games: playing Baccarat with other players can be fun. However, playing the live dealer version takes multiplayer gaming to another level. It works just like a real casino. Every player has a turn and must stick to the time allotted to make a move. The actions you make would be updated for all other players to see, and the same applies to the actions of the other players.
How to Play Online Baccarat
There are a handful of betting types when you play online Baccarat. However, the gameplay follows the same principle. The player gets two cards for a start. If the cards are a total of 6 or more, the player must stand. Here, the player wins if the total in their hand is higher than that of the dealer. Lesser than a total of 6 requires that the player draws another card.
| Player Bet | This is the most profitable betting option you can choose. It has a very straightforward approach and is very easy to understand. In order to win, you must get a number closer to 9 than that of the banker. The house edge usually ranges from 1.29% for a single deck game to 1.24% for a 6-deck game. |
| Banker Bet | This type of bet is similar to the player bet with the rules flipped. This time, the banker must get closer to a 9 than the player. In this game, a 5% commission is taken by the house for all games. However, it has one of the lowest house edges you can find on an online casino – 1.01%. |
| Tie | If you want a higher payout, this is the bet you should choose. In order to win, the player and the banker need to draw the same hand. This is a rare possibility and can be very profitable if you are lucky. It has a house edge of 15.75% for a single deck game and 14.44% for a 6 deck game. |
| Other Bets | There are several other bets to choose from. Some of the popular ones are player pair, banker pair, small, big, and perfect pair, among others. These bets have different payouts that depend majorly on the online casino. |
Baccarat Strategies
Before you play any casino game, you are advised to try out the free versions first. This is to prevent you from acquiring losses and allows you to learn at your own pace. This gives you the freedom to take risks as you please and also gives you time to gain some experience. However, they also allow you to develop a winning strategy of your own. Strategies are very important in winning any casino game, and there are some popular ones you can learn from.
The most popular Baccarat strategy for spectators is called “follow the shoe”. The strategy is quite simple and it simply takes advantage of the previous hand to determine the next. If you are on a winning streak, you can take advantage of that by betting on your previous hand. The basic idea is that wins come in groups and do not alternate between the player and dealer. It is an optimistic strategy that pushes you to follow the wins. For instance, if the player wins the previous game, you are to bet on the player for the next one. However, if it was the dealer that won the previous game, you are to bet on the dealer.
Types of Baccarat Games
There are several variants of Baccarat available. You would find big names like Baccarat Pro and Baccarat Gold provided by big software providers. However, we would categorize them into two major types. This makes it easier to differentiate between them with ease. Let’s take a look at them.
Casino Table Games: this is the type of Baccarat that feels more like a video game. The graphics and gameplay are just like every other online casino game. It has a nice interface and displays everything you do on the screen. It is also the perfect type for beginners since it is easy to follow along. The gameplay is usually against the computer most times. If you like, you can play it either for free or for real money.
Live Casino: this is the more realistic type of game. Unlike the casino table type, you do not see everything you do on the screen. The gameplay imitates sitting at a real-life casino table. You join a dealer at a lounge and the game is broadcast to you live via a camera. You get to communicate with the dealer in real-time and can chat with other players at the table. This type of Baccarat is more fun but does not come with a free version.
Variations of Baccarat
Baccarat is a popular game that has undergone some evolution over the years. It made its journey all over the world and did not remain the same after leaving each country. Today, there are many variants of the game to choose from. However, the basic rules are still the same. Take a look at some of the popular variants.
- Chemin De Fer: this is a variation of the game that uses 6 decks of cards instead of 7. Unlike other versions with a single banker, every player at the table gets a turn to be the banker.
- Punto Banco: in this version, up to 14 players can play at the table. It is similar to every other variation, but uses 6 to 8 decks of cards.
- Mini Baccarat: this is a miniature version of the game, accomodating a maximum of 7 players only. It uses a single croupier who acts as both the banker and the dealer.
- Baccarat Banque: this is a unique variation of the game where a player is selected to be the banker.
- European Baccarat: this version of Baccarat allows the banker to draw a third card. It also allows the player to stand with a total of 5!
Free Baccarat vs Real Money Baccarat
Baccarat is a fun game. However, many new players are not willing to risk their money on learning a new game. This led to the production of free Baccarat games online. These free games are often regarded as demo games and they allow you to test the game without depositing any money. It is just like playing the real game but with virtual currency instead. Take a look at some other differences between free and real money Baccarat.
| Free Baccarat | Real Money Baccarat |
|---|---|
| It uses a virtual currency during gameplay. | The gameplay requires real money. |
| It allows new users to learn the game without the risk of losing real money. | You can make a decent profit from playing, especially if you are very skilled at it. |
| You do not have to worry about losses. | You can lose a lot of money if you are not careful. |
Live Baccarat Online
Live Baccarat is getting more popular, along with other live casino games. Thanks to modern technology, you can now play with live dealers even while seated in your home. The game provider sets up a table at a studio made for this purpose and streams this table directly to the player. There would be a dealer at the table and you get to interact with him as if you are physically at the table. These are only a few of the numerous benefits of live dealer Baccarat. Let us take a look at the other benefits:
- Realism: you get to experience the realism of playing with a real dealer as if you are at a real casino.
- Social: many casinos allow their players to communicate with each other at the table. You can chat and even make friends if you want to.
- Graphics: a game of this nature needs to be the best it can be at all times. Every casino understands this and most of them offer high-definition graphics to enhance the realism.
- Mobile Support: many casinos offer mobile platforms such as mobile apps and websites optimized for mobile device browsers. Now, you can access all their Baccarat variants anywhere you go.
Baccarat Bonuses
You must keep a keen eye out for bonuses whenever you join a Baccarat site. There are only a handful of bonuses geared towards Baccarat players. Most online casinos focus more on slot players. However, the few bonuses that are for Baccarat players are usually mouthwatering bonuses. It would be wise for you to take advantage of the bonuses the best you can. These bonuses come in different forms, but they require you to deposit some amount before you can access it. These bonuses are called deposit bonuses and are only activated when you deposit the required amount.
Another type of bonus you should look out for is the No Deposit Bonus. These bonuses do not require any deposit from you to activate them. However, they share some traits with the deposit bonuses. They all come with wagering requirements that determine whether or not you can withdraw your winnings. This requirement depends on the Baccarat site and must be followed strictly.
Advantages of Online Baccarat
Playing Baccarat online is similar to playing at a real casino. A lot of players like to enjoy casino games and an online version only makes it all better. Some casinos even offer a live dealer version to spice up the deal. However, there are several more benefits of playing Baccarat online. Take a look at some benefits of playing online Baccarat.
- You can play it anytime and anywhere you are. All you need is a mobile device and internet connection, and you are good to go.
- You get to enjoy your favourite variants of Baccarat at the comfort of your home. Now you do not need to go to a real casino to enjoy these games.
- With live games, you can now enjoy human interaction even while playing on your device. Some casinos even allow you to communicate with other players at the table.
- You have complete control over the speed and flow of the game. You can pause the game and resume whenever you feel like resuming. You also do not have to wait in a queue to play just like you would at a real casino.
- You get access to several bonuses that would make the gaming more fun and even give you free money. There is no such thing as a bonus at a real casino.
- The game is easier to learn when you get to see everything happening on a screen. You get to see what you win, lose, and every other action you take in real-time. At a real casino, you have to follow up as quickly as possible to learn the game.
Is Online Baccarat Legal in Ireland?
To understand if a particular casino game is legal in Ireland, you need to first take a look at the Irish gambling laws. A few decades ago, casino gambling was not as it used to be in the country. There were a few casino houses, but only members of their club were allowed to gamble. Today, the 2015 Amendment Act now allows players to enjoy casino games as long as they follow the rules. These rules govern both the casino player and the casino.
Online Baccarat is legal in Ireland. As long as the Baccarat site possesses all the necessary licenses and security measures in place, they are allowed to fully operate. Licenses from reputable bodies like UKGC, MGA, GGC, and Curacao are allowed. Also, the platform must ensure the data of its customers are protected at all times. For this, you should always look out for SSL encryption certification before you join any online Baccarat platform.
Other security measures that must be in place are reliable payment methods and responsive customer support. The payment methods must be fast and safe. It would be discouraging to the players if they fear losing their money to the shady payment methods. Customer support must also be available to offer help to the players whenever they need help. All these and more would be assessed by reputable licensing bodies to ensure the safety of players on the platforms.
Payment Methods Available at Online Baccarat Sites
With the improvement of technology, casinos have done well to use all the payment methods that are utilized by players. If you join any of the top online casinos, you would find a variety of payment methods available. This way you are able to make deposits and withdrawals using only methods that are comfortable for you. You get to choose your preferred payment option and withdraw your winnings with simplicity. Online casinos employ several payment methods to provide players with a sense of security and credibility. The more the number of reputable payment methods present, the more credible the casino. For example, a casino that accepts PayPal would be considered more trustworthy than one that does not. Some of the payment options accessible in casinos may include:
| Credit Card | This is the most common payment method you can find online. You would find it in most online casinos. Mastercard and Visa are the most common and accepted payment methods on practically all casino websites. |
| E-wallet | You can also use electronic wallets like PayPal, Skrill and Neteller to fund and withdraw from your gaming account. They are very easy to use and are also very secure. |
| Cryptocurrency | Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum have gained widespread acceptance and are now used as a legal medium of exchange. |
| Bank Transfer | Some casinos allow players to deposit funds directly into their gaming wallets from their bank accounts. |
Top Online Baccarat Software Providers in Ireland
Checking out the top Baccarat software providers is another way to get the best ones. Baccarat does not come in many variants like most casino games. However, there is a lot that goes into game-making in order for the provider to stand out. This is why you should expect nothing but the best from the big names in the industry. Let’s take a look at some of them:
- Microgaming: This is one of the oldest providers in the industry. They have several games in their catalogue including some interesting variants of Baccarat. Here you would find one of the oldest variants of Baccarat on online casinos, simply known as Baccarat. Other names like Baccarat Gold and Live Dealer Baccarat are also available to choose from.
- NetEnt: this is another big software provider in the casino industry. Their games are classy and made with good graphics. Here, you would find a host of games including Baccarat. Some of the major Baccarat names to look out for are Baccarat Pro and Punto Banco Pro.
- PlayTech: This software provider has also been in the industry for a while and has a long list of names in their catalogue. They offer both live and online Baccarat variations.
- Evolution Gaming: if you are looking for the best software provider for Baccarat, Evolution Gaming is the one to check. Their games are among the best in the industry and they have a handful of live dealer games to go with it. This extends to their Baccarat offerings and you should expect nothing short of top quality from them.
Conclusion
It is safe to say that playing Baccarat online is similar to playing any other casino game. The top software providers have done a great job in providing a powerful gaming experience like no other. The online casinos also did well to ensure that players can access these top-quality Baccarat games in the comfort of their homes. All that is left is for the player to choose an online platform to play games on. Luckily, you have learnt a thing or two here about choosing the right ones.