Chemin de Fer Baccarat: Complete Guide

Chemin de Fer is a traditional French version of baccarat that rose to prominence in the late 19th century. Known as the "Game of Kings," it became a staple among the French elite and held its status as a social favourite across European gambling circles.

Table of Contents:

• Origins and Evolution of Chemin de Fer
• Understanding the Basics
  • Key Differences Between Chemin de Fer, Punto Banco, and Baccarat Banque
  • Roles in the Game: The Banker vs. The Player
  • Card Values and Hand Rankings
• Rules and Gameplay Mechanics
• Table Layout for Chemin de Fer
• Bank Handling in Chemin de Fer
• The Result of the Game and Payout in Chemin de Fer
• The Role of Skill and Strategy in Chemin de Fer
  • The Best Betting Strategies for Players
    • Betting on the Banker vs. the Player
    • Managing Your Bankroll Wisely
    • Observing Opponents
    • Understanding the Role of the Banker
  • Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Modern Adaptations and Online Presence
• Chemin De Fer Baccarat FAQ

With a lineage tracing back hundreds of years, it remains one of the most storied baccarat variants. What sets it apart from modern forms of the game, and how did it evolve into its current form?

Origins and Evolution of Chemin de Fer

Baccarat likely originated in 15th-century Italy, created by Felix Falguiere, who named it "baccara," or "zero," referencing the value assigned to tens and face cards. The game made its way to France later that century, brought back by soldiers who had fought in the Italian Wars under King Charles VIII.

In France, it evolved into Chemin de Fer, named after the railway for its faster pace compared to earlier versions. The game caught on quickly among the nobility, becoming a fixture in high-society gambling rooms across Europe. This elite association earned it the title "Game of Kings."

Chemin de Fer eventually influenced the creation of modern baccarat variants like Punto Banco and Mini Baccarat, which are now more common in casinos. While it's less visible today, Chemin de Fer still holds a place in gambling history, especially thanks to its portrayal in literature and film, including its iconic role as James Bond’s preferred game.

Understanding the Basics

Chemin de Fer aims to achieve a hand as close to 9 as possible (or surpass the banker's total without exceeding 9) using two or three cards. Participants alternate acting as the banker, while others bet on whether the banker's or player's hand will win.

Key Differences Between Chemin de Fer, Punto Banco, and Baccarat Banque

Chemin de Fer, Punto Banco, and Baccarat Banque are all baccarat variants, but they differ in certain aspects. In Chemin de Fer, participants switch roles as the banker, covering bets and deciding if a third card should be taken. The role of banker rotates around the table, and players compete against each other rather than the casino.

Punto Banco is the most common version in casinos today. The casino acts as the banker, and all decisions on drawing cards follow strict rules, removing any player influence. Baccarat Banque, like Chemin de Fer, allows a player to be the banker, but the banker position is more fixed, often held by a single player until they choose to retire or exhaust their funds.

Roles in the Game: The Banker vs. The Player

In Chemin de Fer, players take on different roles, with the two main positions being the banker and the player.

• The Banker: The player in this role covers all bets placed by the other players at the table. The banker also decides whether to draw a third card based on their hand and the player's total. The role rotates around the table when the banker loses or chooses to step down
• The Player: The remaining participants bet on whether the player’s hand will win. The person with the highest bet makes the decision to take a third card if the hand allows, but all players who bet on the player’s side win or lose together

Card Values and Hand Rankings

Here’s how the cards in Chemin de Fer Baccarat are valued:

• Number Cards (2-9): Face value
• 10s and Face Cards (Jacks, Queens, Kings): 0 points
• Aces: 1 pointTo determine a hand's total, the values of the individual cards are summed, and if the total goes over 9, only the rightmost digit is considered. For instance, a hand comprising a 7 and an 8 totals 15, which is considered 5 in the game. The best possible hand is 9 (known as a natural), and the hand nearest to this number wins. The round ends in a tie if both hands have the same value.

Rules and Gameplay Mechanics

Here’s how the game plays out:

• Setting Up the Game: 12 players sit around a table, and one is chosen as the banker randomly or by agreement. A dealer is also there to represent the casino and make sure that everything is in order
• Placing Bets: The banker determines the amount they are willing to wager. Players can bet up to that amount collectively. The participant with the largest bet acts on behalf of the group and makes drawing decisions
• Dealing Cards: The banker and the player each receive two cards
• Natural Win: If either the banker's or the player's initial hand totals 8 or 9 (a natural), they reveal their cards immediately, and the round concludes
• Third Card Rule: If no natural win occurs, the player has the option to take a third card when their total is 5 or less. The banker then decides whether to take a third card based on the player's decision and their own hand
• Winning the Round: The hand closest to 9 wins. If the banker wins, they continue in the role. If the player wins, the banker position rotates.

  Drawing Additional Cards

When the cards are drawn by the player and the banker, if neither of them has a hand that totals a natural 8 or 9, additional cards are drawn. To do this, the player must announce ‘Carte’. A player must reveal their cards after the banker has announced theirs first. Any additional cards get drawn face up. The player's rule is as follows:

The banker's rule depends on if the player stands. If they do, the banker can draw a third card if their total is 0-5. They must stand if it is 6 or 7. The banker's rule is as follows:

It is when a 5 gets drawn that the game comes alive. This is where the tactics of players and bankers come into play. Knowing the type of player you are up against can give you an advantage, just as being a uniform player can put you on the back foot. Therefore, it helps to mix up the playing style. Generally, players can get broken down into three categories.

• Tireur – This is French for a shooter. It is a type of player who will always draw.
• Non-Tireur – A non-shooter. This type of player will always stand.
• Douteur – The Doubter. This type of player alternates between drawing and standing.

Table Layout for Chemin de Fer

The table in Chemin de Fer has two set places for bets. Banque is for bets on the banker and Reliquat is for the part of the banker's bet not covered by other players.

Two slots reside in the middle of the table. One is a place to house used cards and the other is a space for the 5% casino commission on winning bets. This commission is required as there is no other financial incentive for a casino to operate the game. All it does is provide the dealers and equipment, and players bet against each other.

Bank Handling in Chemin de Fer

In Chemin de Fer, the croupier sits in the middle seat at the table. The person to their right is the first person who will be the banker. Players assume this role in turn.

At the start of the turn, the banker puts forward an amount that they are willing to gamble. Each player must decide if they will go all in against the banker by calling ‘Banco’. All players may decide to do this, or none. If more than one player calls Banco then the priority is given to the person to the banker's right, known as Banco Prime.

When no one goes all in and calls Banco, betting can take place at the discretion of the players. Should the bank not be covered by the player's bets, they can be covered by the spectators around the table. The banker may also agree to raise the bank if bets exceed the amount or have excess bets removed from the table.

The Result of the Game and Payout in Chemin de Fer

Like baccarat, there are three outcomes in Chemin de Fer. These are player, banker or tie.

After all additional cards are drawn, if the player's total is greater than the banker’s, then a payout of 1:1 occurs for all players. For example, if you had put down $50, you would get $50 back along with your original bet for a total of $100.

In a tie, all bets remain on the table to be played in the next round. If the banker wins, they take the bets and can decide to retain the role of the bank if they wish. When they wish to give it up, they must declare a pass.

It is against Chemin de Fer etiquette to give up the role after one winning round, as it does not give players a chance to win back their money. An average of around three rounds is acceptable before saying pass. The house will decide the minimum and maximum bet amounts before the game begins. Should no one be willing to hold the bank, it goes to the next player in the order.

The Role of Skill and Strategy in Chemin de Fer

Chemin de Fer is a mix of both skill and luck. While the outcome of each hand is influenced by chance, players have the autonomy to make strategic decisions. However, no strategy can fully eliminate the role of chance, making it a game where both smart play and luck determine success.

The Best Betting Strategies for Players

You can use the following strategies to potentially improve your overall performance:

Betting on the Banker vs. the Player

If you’re unsure where to place your bets, the banker is statistically the safer option. Since the banker plays after the player and has more information before making a decision, this position naturally holds a slight edge.

Managing Your Bankroll Wisely

Good bankroll management is essential to lasting in the game. A standard rule is to bring a bankroll that is at least 100 to 200 times your average bet. For example, if you usually bet $5 per round, a bankroll of $500 to $1,000 is advisable.

Observing Opponents

Noticing your opponents' tendencies can provide valuable insights. For instance, players who frequently draw cards totalling 5 or more risk overextending, while those who rarely draw may be more cautious.

Understanding the Role of the Banker

When you have the opportunity to act as the banker, it's important to manage your bets wisely. Setting bet amounts that appeal to opponents without overextending your bankroll is key. Taking a cautious approach as the banker, including standing on higher totals (like 6 or 7), is often safer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some of the most common mistakes to watch out for when playing Chemin de Fer:

• Ignoring Basic Drawing Strategy: Deviating from optimal play (e.g., drawing at 6 or standing at 4) lowers your chances of winning over time. Stick to the best mathematical choices
• Mismanaging Bankroll: Betting too much too soon or failing to set limits can drain your funds quickly. Always play within a structured bankroll plan
• Chasing Losses: Doubling down after a losing streak in hopes of a comeback can be risky. Accept losses as part of the game and avoid reckless bets
• Failing to Observe Opponents: Chemin de Fer involves reading other players. Ignoring their betting and drawing patterns can put you at a disadvantage

Modern Adaptations and Online Presence

Casinos have updated Chemin de Fer to fit today’s gaming environment while keeping its classic appeal.

• Digital and Online Integration: Some online casinos offer Chemin de Fer in live dealer formats, allowing players to join remotely with real-time streaming and interactive features. However, most online baccarat games use Punto Banco or Mini Baccarat since they are faster and better suited for digital play
• Lower Betting Minimums: Once a game for high rollers, many casinos now offer lower-stakes versions to attract more players
• VIP and High-Stakes Variations: Exclusive casinos still cater to high-stakes players with private rooms, personalized service, and traditional player-banker rotationAlthough Chemin de Fer is rarely found in online casinos, it is still played in select high-end European land-based casinos, particularly in France and parts of Italy.

Chemin De Fer Baccarat FAQ

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about Chemin de Fer Baccarat:​

How is Chemin de Fer different from standard Baccarat?

​Chemin de Fer is a baccarat variant where participants alternate acting as the banker. In standard baccarat like Punto Banco, the casino always acts as the banker, and players bet on either the player's or banker's hand.

Can I play Chemin de Fer online?

Currently, Chemin de Fer is rarely available at online casinos. Most digital baccarat games, including live dealer versions, follow Punto Banco rules.

What are the odds of winning as a player vs. a banker?

In Chemin de Fer, the odds slightly favour the banker due to the advantage of acting after the player has made their decision.

Where can I find casinos that offer Chemin de Fer?

Chemin de Fer is mainly found in European casinos, especially in France and Italy. High-end establishments like Casino de Venezia still offer the game, but it is rare outside of Europe, where most casinos have switched to Punto Banco.

Can Chemin de Fer be played casually, or is it always high stakes?

Traditionally, Chemin de Fer has been associated with high-stakes gambling and is often played in exclusive settings. However, some venues may offer tables with lower minimum bets.