Baccarat is a game that does provide players a simple mathematical strategy.  Many baccarat systems are based on following patterns and counting cards, however for the simple reason that cards are drawn for both the player and the banker according to a set of rules these system are easy discredited.  With the absence of choice a players best course of action is to make the bet that has the lowest house edge.  Calculating the house edge is not a simple task, nor is it required to become a good strategic player but knowing the results is important. The house edge is always less if betting on the banker, therefor the best strategy is to always bet on the banker. 

8 Deck Baccarat: House Edge

1.06% on the banker
1.24% on the player
14.36% on the tie

6 Deck Baccarat: House Edge

1.06% on the banker
1.24% on the player
14.44% on the tie

1 Deck Baccarat: House Edge

1.01% on the banker
1.29% on the player
15.75% on the tie