The object of baccarat is simple: to get a total of 9, or as close to 9 as possible, in two or three cards. Cards 2 through 9 count at their face value; aces count as 1; 10s and face cards count as 0. If the face value of two cards totals more than 9, 10 is subtracted from the total. For example, a 5 and a 9 would equal 4 (14 minus 10). Each hand is limited to three cards, and the player cannot take a third card if the total of his first two cards is 6 or higher.

There are two “natural” hands in baccarat, occurring when the first two cards in either the player's or the banker's hand total 8 or 9. If the player has a natural 8 or 9, the dealer cannot draw a third card. If the dealer has a natural, the player cannot draw a third card. Natural hands beat all other hands in baccarat. The only hand that can beat a natural 8 is a natural 9.

To make the game more accessible to the less affluent gambler, many casinos now offer a version of the game called “mini-baccarat.” The rules are the same as in the full-fledged version, but mini-baccarat tables are located on the gaming floor with the rest of the table games, eliminating the exclusive atmosphere and posh accoutrements of regular baccarat. Mini-baccarat also offers much lower minimum bets, making it a more affordable game for most casino patrons. The mini-baccarat table is similar to a blackjack table, usually accommodating six or seven bettors.