EZ Baccarat: 101 Guide to Rules, Instructions & Strategy

Introduction

EZ Baccarat, a popular casino game that’s a twist on the classic game of Baccarat. If you’re new to this, don’t worry, I’ve got you covered because EZ Baccarat is a card game that’s even simpler than the original once you get the hang of it.

It’s been around since 2009 and has surged in popularity globally because it’s fast-paced and doesn’t require a commission on winning Banker bets, which is a big plus compared to traditional Baccarat. The game’s history is tied to the original Baccarat, which dates back to gambling salons in France and Italy.

Over time, Baccarat made its way to casinos around the world and eventually evolved into different variations, including EZ Baccarat. This version was created to simplify the commission process and speed up the game, making it more appealing to both players and casinos. Now, I find it’s a staple in many gambling establishments and has a strong following of players looking for that quick and punchy drop-in game.

Rules for playing EZ Baccarat

Understanding the rules is, as always, key to enjoying EZ Baccarat. The game is played with multiple decks of cards, usually 6 or 8, and the goal is to bet on which of two hands – the Player or the Banker – will get closest to a total of 9. Cards 2 through 9 are worth their face value, Aces are worth 1, and 10s, Jacks, Queens, and Kings are worth 0. If the total of the hand exceeds 9, you drop the first digit to get the actual value (so a 15 becomes a 5).

Here’s how a round goes down:

1. Players place their bets on either the Player, Banker, or a Tie.
2. The dealer gives two cards each to the Player and Banker hands.
3. If either hand totals 8 or 9, it’s called a ‘natural’ and no more cards are dealt.
4. If there’s no natural, the Player hand gets a third card based on its total.
5. The Banker may also get a third card depending on the Player’s third card and the Banker’s total.
6. The hand closest to 9 wins, and bets are paid out accordingly.

There are some specific rules for when the Player and Banker get a third card, but I’ll get into that in more detail later. Just remember that unlike traditional Baccarat, EZ Baccarat doesn’t charge a commission on winning Banker bets. Instead, if the Banker wins with a total of 7 after three cards, it’s a push, and all Banker bets are returned.

Equipment and Setup for EZ Baccarat

When you sit down to play EZ Baccarat at a casino, you’ll see a table similar to a blackjack table, with spots for players to place their bets. The game uses multiple standard decks of cards, which are kept in a device called a shoe. There’s also a scoreboard for keeping track of the outcomes of each round, which can be helpful for players who like to look for patterns.

How to Play EZ Baccarat

Playing EZ Baccarat is all about making the right bets at the right time. Here’s a breakdown of the key game mechanics:

1. Setup: Players sit around the table and place their bets on the Player, Banker, or Tie.
2. Gameplay: The dealer deals the cards and follows the rules for drawing extra cards. Players just watch and hope their bets pay off.
3. End of the Game: The hand closest to 9 wins, and players are paid out or collect their winnings based on their bets.

During the game, you can also make side bets like the Dragon 7 or Panda 8, which pay out if the Banker wins with a total of 7 on three cards or the Player wins with a total of 8 on three cards, respectively. These can add an extra layer of excitement to the game.

Side Bets in EZ Baccarat

As I mentioned, the most common side bets are the “Dragon 7” and the “Panda 8.” The Dragon 7 bet pays out at 40:1 odds if the Banker wins with a three-card total of seven. The Panda 8 bet pays at 25:1 odds if the Player wins with a three-card total of eight. These side bets offer higher payouts than standard bets but come with a significantly higher house edge.

How to Win at EZ Baccarat

Winning at EZ Baccarat involves understanding the odds and probabilities. The Banker bet has the lowest house edge, making it the safest bet in the long run. The Player bet is also a decent choice, while the Tie bet has the highest house edge and is generally not recommended.

Here’s a quick look at the odds:

• Banker bet has a house edge of about 1.02%.
• Player bet has a house edge of about 1.24%.
• Tie bet has a house edge of about 14.36%.

Remember, these percentages are based on the long-term outcome of many games. In the short term, anything can happen, so it’s important to manage your bankroll and not chase losses.

Best Strategies for playing EZ Baccarat

When it comes to strategy, sticking with the Banker bet is your best bet. It has the lowest house edge, so over time, you’re more likely to come out ahead. Some players also follow patterns or streaks, but it’s important to remember that each round is independent, and past results don’t influence future outcomes.

Managing your money is also crucial. Set a budget for your gaming session and stick to it. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement, but knowing when to walk away is part of being a smart player.

Variations

Around the world, you might find some variations of EZ Baccarat with different side bets or rules. It’s always a good idea to read up on the specific rules of the table you’re playing at to make sure you’re not caught off guard.

Scenarios

Good scenarios in EZ Baccarat include winning streaks on the Banker bet or hitting a big side bet like the Dragon 7. Bad scenarios involve losing streaks or betting too much on the Tie. If you find yourself in a tough spot, take a break, reassess your strategy, and remember to keep bets within your budget.

Frequently Asked Questions about playing EZ Baccarat

Q: Is there a best bet in EZ Baccarat?
A: Yes, the Banker bet is generally considered the best due to its lower house edge.

Q: Can I count cards in EZ Baccarat?
A: Card counting is not really effective in EZ Baccarat because of the large number of decks used and the low house edge already present.

Q: Are side bets worth it?
A: Side bets can offer big payouts but come with a higher house edge. They should be made sparingly and for fun, not as a main strategy.

Q: Who invented EZ Baccarat? EZ Baccarat was co-created by Robin Powell and Francisco “TJ” Tejeda.

External Links

EZ Baccarat Online Simulator (free, no registration)

How EZ Baccarat Became the Reigning Brand in Baccarat