Description of "Punto Banco" game
In Punto Banco (North American baccarat) the object of the game is to bet on the hand (either player "punto" or bank "banco") that you think will have a total or is closest to nine. Or to bet that both player "punto" and bank "banco" hands will have the same value (a "tie"). The following rules apply once the player "punto" and bank "banco" both have 2 cards each:
Player's rules
If the player's hand adds up to 0 to 5 , a 3rd card is drawn.
If the total is 6 or 7, it stands. If it is 8 or 9, this is called a 'natural' and stands.
Banker's rules
If the banker's hand is worth 0 to 3, the banker must draw a 3rd card whatever the value of the player's 3rd card.
If the total is 4 and the value of the player's hand is 2 to 7 the banker must draw a 3rd card.
If the total is 5 and the value of the player's hand is 4 to 7 the banker must draw a 3rd card.
If the total is 6 and the value of the player's hand is 6 to 7 the banker must draw a 3rd card, but only if the player's total was achieved within three cards. Where the player's total was made by just 2 cards the bank must stand.
If the total is 7 the banker must stand.
If the banker's hand is worth a total of 8 to 9 the banker and player both stand.
Payout is as follow: Banker hand Wins = 2x the bet, Player hand Wins = 2x the bet and Tie = 8x the bet.
