The object of Punto Banco is to pick which of two hands, the 'Banker' or the 'Player' will be closest to a total of nine. Players may bet on either hand, but should note that the 'Player' bet pays less than the 'Banker' bet. To start a new game, all players must place their bets on either the 'Player' or the 'Banker' hand. This must be done before the cards are dealt.
The dealer then deals two cards to both the 'Player' and the 'Banker'. The starting total is determined by the value of the cards in each hand. All face cards (Jacks, Queens and Kings) have a value of zero and aces have a value of one. The hand closest to a total of nine wins. If the total of both hands is the same, the result is a tie.
In the case of an initial total of eight or nine in either hand, the hand is declared a 'Natural' and the game is over. If the Player has a total of five or less, they will draw a third card. The 'Banker' will then draw a third card based on certain rules. If the total of the 'Player' is six or more, they must stand.