Are you looking for the coolest card games to play? Something suave? Something classy? Well, you can’t do much better than Chemin de fer baccarat.
This is one of the most traditional casino card games and comes with a whole lot of prestige.
But, if you want to play the game, you are going to need to know a little bit more about it.
In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about this baccarat version.
Keep in mind that this is a baccarat version that we don’t find so much in live casinos online but mainly in big land-based casinos.
About Chemin de Fer Baccarat
Chemin de fer baccarat is one of the oldest baccarat games. Baccarat was developed in the Napoleonic era, which was the earlier part of the 19th century.
During the 19th century, chemin de fer baccarat become popular because it was the most up-tempo version of the different types of baccarat.
One cool fact about the game is that it is actually James Bond’s (Agent 007) favourite casino game, featured in Dr. No. You know it’s cool if Mr Bond enjoys it.
But many famous high rollers have enjoyed it, too!
How to Play Baccarat Chemin De Fer
Let’s break the dame down into sections to make it easier. We will start with the basic objective, then proceed to actions before play, and finally to the play itself.
Game Objective
When playing baccarat of any type, the objective is to have the hand with the highest value.
The numbered cards each have their stated value. Any royals have a value of zero. The ace has a value of one.
If the value of a hand is 10 or greater, only the second digit of the value counts. For example, if a player receives two fives, the value of the hand is zero.
Before Play
Chemin de fer baccarat is played with six decks of cards shuffled together. One player at a time takes on the dual roles of dealer and banker. This position is passed counterclockwise around the table.
The banker first puts up a stake, “the bank.” Then, each of the players has the opportunity to “go bank,” meaning they can match the stake directly.
If no one goes bank, each player, in turn, can make their own lesser stake. However, if the stakes total more than the banker’s stake, the excess amount needs to be taken back by the players. One exception is when the banker decides they would like to match the combined stake, increasing the bank.
GamePlay Flow
The dealer deals four cards face-down. The dealer takes two, and the person with the largest stake takes two (this person represents all of the players).
If either set of cards includes an eight or a nine, both the banker and the play must reveal and compare their cards.
If neither has an eight or nine, the player can choose to accept a third card, which is dealt face-up.
It is accepted practice to take an extra card if the player’s hand has a value of between zero and four. If the player’s hand is between six and seven, the accepted practice is to not request a card.
Now, the banker makes the same choice.
If the player’s hand is of greater value than the banker’s, then all of the players double their money from the bank. If the banker has a better hand, the banker wins all of the wagers.
Chemin de fer: The Ultimate Cool Card Game
Chemin de fer baccarat is possibly the suavest card game you can choose to play. It’s pretty much the Aston Martin of card games. You can’t go wrong.
Now that you know the rules and some of the strategies, you’re all set. Play a few hands, and soon, you’ll be playing like Agent 007 himself.
Grab your martini — shaken, not stirred — and try your hand at the coolest of all card games!
So, are you ready to play live dealer baccarat?