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Please note we operate Challenge 25 in our Manchester casino.


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How to Play Punto Banco

What is Punto Banco?

Punto Banco is a classic casino card game that follows fixed rules, making it easy to understand. Our comprehensive guide will explain everything you need to know about playing Punto Banco. Played with multiple decks, the game involves two hands – Punto (the Player) and Banco (the Banker) – with the aim of reaching a total closest to nine. 

As a popular variant of Baccarat, Punto Banco rules are automatic, meaning players do not make decisions during the game. Found in many Punto Banco casinos, including Napoleons, this game is widely recognised for its structured gameplay.

Basic Punto Banco Rules

Objective

Punto Banco is a casino card game where players place a bet on whether the player’s or banker’s hand will have a total closest to nine. There is also an option to stake on a tie.

Card Values

  • Number cards (2–9) are worth their face value
  • 10s, Jacks, Queens, and Kings count as zero
  • Aces are worth one
  • If a hand’s total exceeds nine, only the last digit is used (e.g. 15 becomes 5)

Gameplay Overview

Two cards are dealt to both the Punto and Banco hands. The totals determine whether additional cards are drawn, following set rules.

Dealer Rules

The dealer follows a fixed set of rules to determine if a third card is drawn for either hand. Players do not influence the game.

HOW TO PLAY PUNTO BANCO

Placing Your Bet

Before the round begins, players place their bets on Punto, Banco, or Tie. Once all stakes are placed, no further action is required from the player.

Dealing the Cards

Two cards are dealt face-up to both the Punto and Banco hands. Card values are calculated, and if either hand totals 8 or 9 it is a ‘natural’ win and the round ends.

Player Actions

Players do not make decisions during the game. Whether a third card is drawn depends on set rules based on the total of the first two cards.

Dealer’s Turn

The dealer follows automatic Punto Banco rules to determine if the Banco hand requires a third card. The hand closest to nine at the end wins.

ODDS AND PAYOUTS 

Winning Hand

In Punto Banco, there are two main bets:

The Banco (Bank) bet: pays 19-20, meaning for every £20 staked, £19 is won (plus the original stake).

The Punto (Player) bet: pays even money, so a £10 stake wins £10 in addition to the original stake.

Tie

The Tie bet, which is less common, pays 9-1. For example, a £10 stake would return £90 in winnings, plus the original stake.

Side Bet – Pairs

In addition to the main bets, players can place a side bet called Pairs. This bet can be made alongside any other bet but cannot be placed on its own. To win, the first two cards of either the Punto or Banco hand must be a pair. If successful, the Pairs bet pays 11-1.

PUNTO BANCO ETIQUETTE

Placing Bets

Always place your stake before the dealer starts the round. Avoid touching your chips once the betting period has closed.

Handling Cards

The dealer is responsible for handling the cards. At certain casinos, players are encouraged to turn over their cards if the dealer has dealt them face down.

Respecting the Dealer

Allow the dealer to manage the game. If you have any questions, it’s best to ask between rounds, not during active play.

Side Bets

If you wish to place a side bet, such as Pairs, make sure to do so before the cards are dealt.

Stay Calm

Punto Banco is a fast-paced game, so maintaining patience and respect for others will enhance your gaming experience.

PUNTO BANCO AT NAPOLEONS

Ready to play? Start planning your next visit to Napoleons!

Remember, the dealer will always ensure that the cards are drawn according to the rules – so all you need to do is sit back, relax and enjoy betting on which hand will be closer to 9 or whether there will be a tie!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best hand in Punto Banco?
The best hand is closest to 9, so either a card total of 8 or 9.
How many decks are used in Punto Banco?
Typically, Punto Banco is played with 6 to 8 decks of cards, shuffled together.
What does the Tie bet mean?
A Tie (or Egalite) bet occurs when both hands end with the same total. This bet pays 9:1 but has a lower probability of winning.
Can I place side bets?
Yes, the Pairs bet is available, where the first two cards in either the Punto or Banco hand must be a pair to win.
Can I (the player) affect the outcome of the game?
No, the game follows fixed rules, and players do not make any decisions once the round begins. The dealer handles the entire process.
What’s the difference between Punto Banco and Baccarat?
Punto Banco and Baccarat are basically the same game, however, Punto Banco is simplified. The card game is usually called Baccarat in the US and Asia.