Baccarat is that enigmatic card game you see in James Bond movies and associate with high-rollers and luxury. But despite its mystique and reputation for sophistication, Baccarat is a simple game to learn and offers some of the best odds in the casino.

The rules of the game vary slightly depending on whether you are playing the Punto Banco or Chemin de fer version, but the fundamentals remain the same. Players place bets on the Player or Banker hand, with the goal of winning by betting on a hand that totals closest to nine. The dealer deals two cards, one to the Player box and one to the Banker box, which are both visible to everyone at the table. Regardless of which hand wins, a commission is paid to the casino which varies by casino.

It is unknown when or how Baccarat was invented, but historians believe that it may have originated in 1500s Rome, Italy, when Felix Falguiere created the game to replace tarot cards. He named the game Baccarat because tens, jacks and queens are worth zero points, while a king or ace can have values of either one or nine.

The game reached the US in the 19th century, where it quickly became a favorite among players looking to push their luck. The game’s popularity continues to this day, with the game being played in casinos around the world.

According to Bill Zender, a former Nevada Gaming Control Agent and executive who literally wrote the book on managing casino games, Baccarat’s popularity has exploded in recent years among Asian high rollers. Zender explains that the game is more culturally appropriate than blackjack and can be played on a single table, making it less expensive to play. This is a huge plus for many Asian players, especially when you consider the fact that most of them prefer to gamble at lower stakes.

Another benefit of Baccarat is its relatively low house edge on Banker and Player bets. There is a third bet, called Tie, which pays off eight to one, but has a higher house advantage of over 14 percent. This is why most serious players stick to Player or Banker bets.

As with any gambling venture, it is important to enter Baccarat with a plan and set limits. Decide how much you are willing to lose and walk away when you hit that limit. This way, you can enjoy the game without worrying about losing more than you are able or willing to lose. Baccarat can be an extremely addictive game, so it is essential to exercise patience and discipline to make sure you don’t get carried away. Baccarat is a simple and fun game that you can play at DraftKings.