Baccarat Types You Need to Learn

Baccarat cannot be reduced to just one game, and is available in many formats for traditional and modern gameplay. In this guide, we explore the differences between the most popular baccarat variations and explain how to play baccarat online, including formats like live dealer baccarat and first-person baccarat.

The Three Main Types of Baccarat

Baccarat is one of the most sophisticated yet simple casino table games. In this guide, we focus mainly on the three most popular versions, namely Punto Banco, Chemin de Fer, and Baccarat Banque. These all follow the same basic rules, but there are minor differences to consider. We explain these in detail so you can play online baccarat with confidence.

Punto Banco

Punto Banco is the simplest and most widely played version of baccarat. The game is popular because it does not involve complex baccarat strategy. All you need to do is wager on the outcome between two hands: the player (Punto) and the banker (Banco).

Each round starts by betting on whether the player (Punto) or the banker (Banco) will have a total closest to 9. Players can also wager on the round ending in a tie. Once bets are placed, each hand receives two cards. Tens and face cards are worth zero, while other cards are counted according to their face value. Totals are calculated modulo ten.

The hand with a total closest to 9 wins, and all winnings are determined by the paytable. Players can also choose several side bets, such as Player Pair, Banker Pair, and Perfect Pair. These carry a greater house edge, but can result in significant payouts. For example, Player Pair usually pays 11:1, while Perfect Pair pays 25:1.

Baccarat Chemin de Fer

Chemin de Fer is a French version of baccarat that accommodates more strategic decision-making. Unlike Punto Banco, where the online casino handles all gameplay, Chemin de Fer allows players to take turns to assume the role of the banker.

Chemin de Fer follows the same rules as other baccarat games, meaning the hand with a total closest to 9 wins. The ace is worth one, the face cards and 10 are worth zero, and other cards are worth their face value. Again, all totals are calculated modulo ten.

What makes this version of baccarat stand out is the fact that the dealer can choose to draw a third card. The player acting as the dealer can do so for several reasons, such as improving their hand or preventing another player from winning. This element makes Chemin de Fer significantly more competitive than other baccarat variations, especially when played in a live online casino setting.

Baccarat Banque

Baccarat Banque shares many characteristics with other baccarat variants. But it also comes with some unique rules. As you can tell from its name, the game originated in France and is often considered one of the oldest versions of baccarat. Traditionally, it is played on an oval table with 10 to 16 players.

What makes it different to other versions, in particular Chemin de Fer, is the fact that the banker position is permanent. Other players can challenge the banker for the position by announcing “go bank” and matching the banker’s entire stake. However, they only have three chances to do so during a particular round.

Challenging the banker for the position has a significant impact on the game. First, taking over as banker creates high-stakes betting opportunities and higher potential payouts. Second, the banker has a strategic advantage and can draw a third card to strengthen their hand or block other players.

How Are They Different?

Even though these main variations of baccarat all follow the traditional game with similar drawing rules, there are notable differences when it comes to strategy and player involvement. Where Punto Banco features simple rules and basic betting options, other baccarat games accommodate more complex gameplay.

For example, Chemin de Fer introduces strategic decision-making. Because players take turns to assume the role of the banker, knowing when to draw a last card could influence the outcome. This element also makes the game more competitive and skill-based, since the banker can draw the third card to either strengthen their total or block a player.

Similarly, Baccarat Banque allows players to challenge the dealer for the position. The position is permanent for the entire shoe, meaning the banker must manage their stake to cover all wagers from other players. Players challenging the banker also need to be cautious and consider the risk vs. reward before making a move.

Online Baccarat for a Unique Experience

Las Atlantis is a premier destination for online baccarat and features many popular games. These include mini baccarat, first-person baccarat, and other niche variations. Most games are available in two formats: Random Number Generator (RNG) and Live Casino. Both options accommodate smaller tables for beginners and high-stakes tables for advanced players.

Live baccarat is perhaps the most immersive option and mimics land-based casinos by featuring professional dealers. The live baccarat games use HD cameras to stream the action directly to your device. In addition, players can interact with the dealers in real-time and enjoy value-added features, such as in-game statistics and customizable table limits.

Choosing which baccarat tables match your gambling style often depends on factors such as budget and skill level. As a result, Las Atlantis offers regular baccarat bonuses to expose players to all game types without breaking the bank. The games furthermore feature competitive payout odds and seamless gameplay mechanics that make betting easy.