Playing baccarat has been a popular pastime in casinos around the world. Just like almost every casino game has variants, so does Baccarat. One of the variants of baccarat is EZ Baccarat. This game has the same classic allure but without the hassle of the 5% commission on winning Bank hands. EZ Baccarat has become a favorite among North American casino-goers. Let’s dive into the delightful simplicity of EZ Baccarat and unfold the layers that make it such an enjoyable game for both beginners and experienced players.
Understanding EZ Baccarat: The Basics
Objective of the Game: Like traditional baccarat, the goal of EZ Baccarat is straightforward. Regardless of the number of players joining you at the table, only two hands are dealt: the Bank Hand and the Player Hand. Your objective is to bet on the hand that you think will get closest to a total of 9.
Elimination of the 5% Commission: What truly sets EZ Baccarat apart is the elimination of the 5% commission on the Bank Hand wins. This means that when you place a bet on the Bank Hand, and it wins, you get to keep all of your winnings — a 1:1 payout. It’s a delightful twist that keeps the game flowing smoothly and escalates your excitement with each win.
Third-Card Drawing Rules: Don’t worry; if you’re familiar with the traditional baccarat, the third-card drawing rules are the same in EZ Baccarat. This means that whether you or the dealer should draw a third card follows the established guidelines—keeping the core of the game intact while you enjoy the commission-free structure.
Popularity and Presence of EZ Baccarat in Casinos
North America’s Preference: Casino corporations across North America have heralded the arrival of EZ Baccarat. Its simplicity paired with the absence of commission payout hassles has drawn both new and seasoned players, making it a new staple in the casino environment.
Two Optional Side Bets: For an added level of intrigue, EZ Baccarat offers two optional side bets—Dragon 7 and Panda 8. These bets come with an attractive payout structure, which can significantly increase your potential winnings and add a whole new layer of strategy to your gameplay.
Advanced Playing Techniques: There’s always room to grow and refine your approach to EZ Baccarat, particularly with the side bets. By understanding the odds and developing advanced playing techniques, you can posture yourself for even greater success at the tables.
With its optimized play and exciting opportunities, EZ Baccarat is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to indulge in the revered casino experience without the previous complexities of standard baccarat. So, step up to the EZ Baccarat table with confidence, knowing that your chances for a thrilling win have been magnified.
The Gameplay of EZ Baccarat
Here is what you should know:
Objective of the Game: The goal is straightforward – bet on which hand, the Bank Hand or the Player Hand, will get closer to a total value of 9. You can also bet on a Tie.
Dealing the Cards: Regardless of how many players are at the table, just two hands are dealt. Everyone can bet on the outcome of these two hands.
The Two Hands: One is called the “Bank Hand,” while the other is known as the “Player Hand.” These names do not necessarily correspond to the dealer or the players – they are just conventional terms.
Betting Options: Before the cards are dealt, place your bets on the Bank Hand, the Player Hand, or a Tie.
Card Values: Cards 2 through 9 are worth their face value, aces are worth 1 point, and 10s, jacks, queens, and kings are worth 0 points.
The Play: The dealer draws two cards for both the Bank and the Player’s Hands. Depending on the total, a third card may be dealt following the preset rules of the game.
Similarities and Differences with Traditional Baccarat
They include:
Drawing Rules: EZ Baccarat follows the same drawing rules as traditional baccarat for the Player and Bank hands.
5% Commission: The key difference lies in the commission – EZ Baccarat eliminates the 5% commission charged on winning Bank hands. This means when you win on a Bank bet, you keep all your winnings.
Winning on a Bank Hand: To balance the absence of the commission, if the Bank hand wins with a total of 7 after the third card is drawn, the bet is considered a push, not a win.
Side Bets: EZ Baccarat introduces two optional side bets – the Dragon 7 and the Panda 8. Dragon 7 pays when the Bank hand wins with a total of 7 consisting of three cards, and Panda 8 pays when the Player hand wins with a total of 8 consisting of three cards.
Advanced Tactics: There are advanced playing techniques for the side bets that seasoned players use to increase their winning potential.
Embrace EZ Baccarat as a refreshing variant that offers the classic thrill of baccarat without the burden of the commission. Keep an optimistic outlook while you navigate the nuances of this version, and you may find a new favorite among casino table games. Remember, the absence of the commission on the Bank bet in EZ Baccarat can be a great advantage, so approach the table with a strategy, and you just might find yourself reveling in the excitement of the game with some extra winnings in your pocket.
Paul Barnes cuts through the casino hype with honest reviews and strategy breakdowns. He’s played on every major platform, always looking for the hidden gems (and the ones to avoid).
More about Paul Barnes
Age: 31
Experience: Rising star in the online casino scene, 7 years of in-depth reviews
Background: Studied journalism before finding his passion in gaming analysis
Hobbies: Retro video game collector, aspiring board game designer
Residence: Brighton
Marital Status: In a committed relationship
