Different Types of Baccarat
Punto Banco
Punto Banco is the most commonly played variation of baccarat in US casinos and requires absolutely no skill on the part of the player. The word 'punto' is representative of the player, and the word 'banco' is representative of the banker. In this variation of baccarat, the role of the banker is always played by the casino, but players can choose to wager on the player, the banker or the tie in order to win.
Chemin de Fer
Chemin de Fer is the baccarat variant that is most commonly played in France and certain other parts of Europe. The most striking difference with this variant is that the shoe is passed from player to player at a relatively quick rate. Each player takes their turn as the 'banker' and must pay the winning parties from his or her own bankroll. When the banker wins, however, the casino takes a 5% commission.
Baccarat Banque
Baccarat Banque is the variation of baccarat that is typically found in Europe, outside of France and a few other select areas. The role of the banker does not rotate in this variation, but the casino does not assume the role, either. Instead, the player with the largest bankroll typically takes this position. Also, there are two tables in a game of Baccarat Banque for a total of three 'players'--the banker, the first table, and the second table. All of the players at each table share the same two or three cards.
These are the three variations of baccarat that are commonly played around the world. While some casinos may change the rules slightly here and there, they will all be based off of one of these three baccarat game types.
