Since the inception of the game, baccarat has changed and varied, being played by millions and enjoyed by all. Okay, maybe not all, but definitely by those who win. The tow most common variations of the game that is played – and seemingly the two most popular of the three known versions of baccarat – are punto banco and Chemin de Fer. Punto banco is the version that is usually found being played in the United States and in American casinos. Chemin de Fer the rarest variation of the game and it is very difficult to find in play. Let’s take a look at the differences between the two styles.
Punto banco – or North American baccarat – can be played on mini tables or standard size tables. The game uses anywhere from four to six decks of playing cards with the jokers removed. The difference between the mini table game and the standard table game is the cards are dealt between the two versions. If the full size game, you have up to a maximum of fourteen players at the table who each take turns dealing the cards after they are shuffled by the croupier. In the mini table version, the croupier shuffles and deals all the cards and the players bet on one of three outcomes with no other input to the game. The cards are also dealt face up.
Chemin de Fer, however, allows the players to be more involved in the game. In this version, each player can shuffle and deal the cards. The cards are also dealt face down and the only player allowed to look at them is the one who has placed the largest bet at the table. Everyone else waits to see what that player will do and the outcome of the wager. The version of baccarat is also the only version in which an additional card can be taken by the player.
All three versions of the game are played following the same basic rules. The variations, as seen here, are really minor and once you have learned how to play the basic game, you should have no difficulty adapting to the other two styles. Baccarat punto banco and banque are the two you will usually find at the tables, in America and Europe respectively. Chemin de Fer you may only find at a private gathering as it is no longer the fashionable version to play.
