Explore Top Baccarat Variations in the UK

The venerable baccarat card game, with origins tracing back to 15th Century France, stands proudly amongst the most cherished diversions in the UK’s gambling domains. The game’s simplicity is deceptive, for it belies a rich tableau of online baccarat variations that cater to aficionados and novices alike. Each variation is a testament to baccarat’s adaptability and the inexhaustible quest for innovation within this ancient game of chance.

In the constellation of popular baccarat variations, Punto Banco shines as a beacon for its accessible gameplay, with the casino invariably facilitating the action as the dealer. This version represents the essence of modern baccarat, often serving as a gateway for those looking to immerse themselves in this classic pursuit. Chemin de Fer, meanwhile, offers a more participative approach, inviting players to step into the banker’s role, though less frequently encountered in the digital realm.

Embracing a miscellany of styles, the best baccarat variations are effortlessly available in online casinos throughout the UK. From the commission-free allure of No Commission Baccarat to the swift and singular round of Dragon Tiger, the game meets a spectrum of tastes and competencies. Indeed, the wealth of available UK baccarat card game types ensures that the seasoned player and the curious newcomer can both find a game that aligns with their particular predilection.

Key Takeaways

• Baccarat’s enduring presence in the UK is reflected through diverse online baccarat variations.
• Punto Banco, the American flavour of baccarat, is hailed for its straightforward rules.
• Chemin de Fer retains its antique charm by involving players in the banker’s role, albeit with lesser prominence online.
• No Commission Baccarat and Dragon Tiger extend the game’s appeal to those seeking simplified betting structures.
• The panorama of UK baccarat card game offerings caters to varying levels of baccarat expertise and strategic appetite.
• Online platforms ensure the best baccarat variations are just a click away for UK gamblers.

The Enduring Appeal of Baccarat in the UK

The ebb and flow of casino games on the UK gaming boards have seen many a game come and go, but baccarat’s enduring appeal is as steadfast as ever. From the polished floors of traditional casinos to the dynamic realms of online play, baccarat card game variations are amongst the UK favourite casino games, seducing players with their mingling of simplicity and sophistication.

Baccarat variations explained: Doing justice to the rich heritage that colours the world of Baccarat, UK casinos offer an array of styles that span from the classical to the avant-garde. Chemin de Fer recalls the history of the game with its interactive style, inviting players to experience the traditional banker role amongst peers. Meanwhile, Punto Banco, the American variation, simplifies the ceremony, presenting an uncomplicated entryway to the essence of baccarat with predefined rules and dealer-led gameplay.

Baccarat Banque, or ‘à Deux Tableaux‘, epitomises the dual-table heritage of France, yet articulates its presence in the UK gaming panorama. Existing as a bridge between bygone gambling salons and modern-day online platforms, it renders a jeu de cartes that is as flexible as it is compelling. Each variant, including the lesser-known but equally entrancing options, contributes its unique verse to the baccarat narrative, enriching the game’s lore and drawing a diverse congregation of enthusiasts.

Whether through brick-and-mortar presence or digitally-accessible platforms, these baccarat incarnations have flourished, catering to the penchant for diversity and strategy amongst British punters. The array of baccarat card game variations ensures the game’s adaptability—a chameleon among the card games—offering personalised gaming escapades to both the baccarat connoisseur and the inquisitive newcomer in the UK.

This tableau of versions stands not only as testament to baccarat’s esteemed place in gaming culture but as an invitation to a world where the thrill of possibility is matched by the grace of historical homage. Each evocation of baccarat vies for favour, and through their distinctive appeal, they proffer an indulgence in the ceremonious world of chance that is unparalleled in the pantheon of card games.

Understanding Baccarat’s Basic Principles and Wagers

At the heart of every card game lies a core set of principles that govern its rhythm and play. Baccarat, with its regal roots and captivating simplicity, is no different. Despite the emergence of different types of baccarat, a solid understanding of its fundamental elements remains the gambler’s best asset.

For those keen on exploring the rich tapestry of baccarat rule variations and developing their baccarat variation strategies, the fulcrum upon which their knowledge should pivot is the basic mechanics of this timeless card game. Here we expand upon the basic principles and wagering options inherent to baccarat’s allure.

Rules and Gameplay: The Core of Baccarat

The quintessence of baccarat across its numerous forms is a straightforward comparison between two hands: the ‘banker’ and the ‘player’. Regardless of the variation chosen, players confront three possible outcomes: the banker wins, the player wins, or a tie ensues. This simple structure belies a depth that has nourished the game’s longevity and global appeal.

Betting Options: Player, Banker, and Tie

Baccarat’s betting system is elegant in its simplicity. Participants may place their stakes on the outcome they predict will occur: the victory of the player’s hand, the triumph of the banker’s hand, or the rare event of a tie. These choices are the pillars on which the game is based and resonate across online baccarat variations found throughout the UK’s casinos.

Strategy Adaptability Across Variants

The strategy in baccarat, though subtly influenced by the variant played, typically applies universally due to the slight rule deviations. Therefore, a well-honed strategy can often seamlessly transition from one variant to another, allowing players to swim with confidence in the diverse currents of baccarat’s incarnations.

Understanding these foundational aspects provides a springboard for delving into the exciting world of baccarat, where the confluence of luck and tactics crafts an exhilarating gambling experience. Whether a UK gambler’s preference leans towards the Punto Banco enjoyment, the storied avenues of Chemin de Fer, or the lure of No Commission Baccarat, the game’s essential principles and wagers form a unifying framework across all variants.

Chemin de Fer: The Original Baccarat Variation

Immersed in the vestiges of gambling history, Chemin de Fer claims its distinction as one of the most venerable baccarat variations. It transpired not merely as a card game but as an artefact of cultural exchange, traversing from its Gallic beginnings to the banquettes of British and American casinos. What sets Chemin de Fer apart in the realm of baccarat card game variations is not only its longevity but the democratic sway it extends to players, enabling them to assume, in turns, the role of the banker.

This engagement with the cards facilitates a more intimate foray into the nature of baccarat, wherein participants vie against one another with a deck assembly of six packs. Far removed from the digitised and algorithmically dealt hands of modern online casinos, the iteration of Chemin de Fer folds into it a sense of communal rivalry and strategy that resonates with the connoisseurs of table games.

The complexity and interactive essence of Chemin de Fer arguably curtail its prevalence in the online gaming sphere, but they concurrently uphold its allure as a game of substantial tradition and player agency. The rarity of encountering this game on digital platforms only enhances its mystique and desirability among those who pine for an authentic and stirring experience that harks back to the genesis of baccarat.

In the pantheon of baccarat, Chemin de Fer‘s mark is indelible; a testament to an era before baccarat found ubiquity in the virtual realm, offering a glimpse into a tableau where one’s fortunes were as much in the hands of fate as they were a testament to skill and interpersonal challenge.

While ungregated in card rooms and refined in the salon privés, Chemin de Fer maintains a revered seat in the chamber of classic casino pursuits; a bastion of tradition in the continuously evolving lineage of baccarat variations. For those embarking on an exploration of baccarat card game variations, the contemplation of Chemin de Fer is an obligation—a rite of passage into the opulent and ceremonious world of baccarat.

Punto Banco: The American Favourite

Within the sphere of popular baccarat variations, the American derivative known as Punto Banco baccarat reigns supreme in the UK’s online casinos. Renowned for its straightforward gameplay and consistent rules, Punto Banco emanates a sense of reliability that has made it a staple amongst both seasoned players and newcomers to the game.

Punto Banco’s Ease of Play

The popularity of Punto Banco lies in its simplicity. In this variant, the role of the banker is not for players to assume but rather a position held steadfastly by the casino itself. This arrangement eliminates the variable strategies tied to player-controlled banking and streamlines the game, allowing participants to focus solely on their bets — be it on the banker, themselves, or a tie.

Baccarat Tables and Betting Limits

The accommodating nature of Punto Banco baccarat is further evident in the variety of playing tables available. UK online casinos offer scaled options catering to differing preferences within the gambling community.

Table Type	Description	Suitable for
Mini Baccarat	Faster gameplay with smaller stakes.	Players with average bankroll and preference for quick games.
Midi Baccarat	Balances the intimacy of mini with the higher-stakes play of larger tables.	Players seeking a middle ground between formality and relaxed betting.
Full-Sized Baccarat	Traditional setting with a larger player capacity and higher betting limits.	Experienced players looking for the classic baccarat experience.

The scalability of these tables and their respective betting limits allow Punto Banco to accommodate an array of players, making it a prominent fixture among online baccarat variations. Whether through the brisk rounds of a mini table or the more measured pace of the full-sized baccarat, Punto Banco ably sustains the excitement and elegance that define the venerable card game of baccarat.

Baccarat Banque: A Distinctive French Variation

The French heritage of card games unfurls elegantly through Baccarat Banque, also known as ‘à Deux Tableaux‘ due to its two-table play structure. Amongst the opulent array of baccarat game variations, Baccarat Banque stakes its claim as a cornerstone of French gambling culture. It awards the British baccarat enthusiast a setting that is as resplendent in traditional values as it is in the deftness of its play.

Defined by the formal designation of the banker, who contests against dual player hands, Baccarat Banque introduces a playstyle that commands strategic interaction across 14 potential players. This ceremonious undertaking engenders a form of baccarat that distinctively departs from other versions – an embodiment of sophistication and complexity that coalesces into a captivating tableau.

• The Banker, a role of paramount importance in Baccarat Banque, ushers in a layer of strategy and decision-making, rivalling that of simple chance.
• The notion of ‘à Deux Tableaux’ – the two-table play – allows a singular banker to engage with multiple opponents, crafting a scene redolent of bygone gambling saloons.
• The rich and sophisticated opportunity presented by Baccarat Banque appeals uniquely to those engrossed by deeper elements of player agency and psychological verve.

Aspect of Baccarat Banque	Features	Comparison to Other Variations
Number of Player Hands	Two opposing player hands	Unlike Punto Banco, where there is one player hand
Role of Banker	Selected formally, contends against players	Distinguished from Chemin de Fer, where players alternate as the banker
Strategic Depth	Requires nuanced understanding of roles and dynamics	Offers a richer experience than the no-frills approach of Mini Baccarat
Table Dynamics	Up to 14 individuals partake in the dual-table setup	Midi and Mini Baccarat tables cater to fewer players, with a narrowed focus

In essence, Baccarat Banque harkens to the strategic intricacies of its historical provenance and furnishes the British player with a challenge both cerebral and rich in ritualistic pageantry. Deftly navigating its complexities not only enhances one’s appreciation for baccarat but also underlines a mastery over one of the most compelling tapestries woven into the fabric of casino gaming culture.

No Commission Baccarat: Simplifying the Commission

In a move that has streamlined the traditional mechanisms of one of the world’s oldest card games, No Commission Baccarat has altered the economic landscape for enthusiasts and strategists alike. This variant eradicates the longstanding 5% commission on winning banker’s bets that has been a staple of baccarat rule variations, with the singular exception of a win on a score of 6, where a 50% commission applies. This notable modification creates both opportunities and considerations for players who revel in the delicacies of baccarat’s wagering subtleties.

The Impact on House Edge

The house edge serves as one of the most critical metrics in casino games, indicating the average gross profit the casino should expect long-term from each game. The introduction of No Commission Baccarat has notably impacted this figure. With the traditional 5% commission dismissing itself from the structure, except when the banker scores a 6, the foundational mathematics of the game’s probabilities and potential payouts shift significantly in favour of the player for most outcomes, thereby altering the usual stances on risk and reward.

Key Payout Differences

Commission-free baccarat offers a revised payout structure that can potentially benefit the player. The standard rate where winning bets on the banker pay 19:20 in traditional play gets dismissed in favour of even payouts, which simplifies the process for participants, especially for those new to the game. The following table illustrates how key payout differences manifest in No Commission Baccarat compared to the traditional version:

Outcome	Traditional Baccarat Payout	No Commission Baccarat Payout	Comments
Banker Wins (excluding a score of 6)	0.95:1	1:1	The usual 5% commission is abolished, translating into more handsome winnings for the player.
Banker Wins with a score of 6	0.95:1	0.5:1	This is the exception in the game where a 50% commission applies, markedly altering the strategic approach to this specific outcome.
Player Wins	1:1	1:1	No changes are made to the payout for winnings on the player’s hand, thus maintaining consistency in this regard.
Tie/Draw	8:1 or 9:1	8:1 or 9:1	Payouts remain untouched for a tie, leaving the odds identical to the traditional baccarat game.

To summarise, No Commission Baccarat stands out within the cavalcade of baccarat rule variations for its simplification of the commission’s complexities. This allure of streamlined payouts may espouse a renaissance in strategy formulation with the attendant potential for reshaping player profitability within this time-honoured and globally-renowned game.

EZ Baccarat: Modernising the Classic Game

With its roots deeply entrenched in the history of gambling, baccarat has undergone a transformative evolution. EZ Baccarat stands out as a revolutionary development in the world of modern baccarat games, offering a fresh perspective while honouring the essence of the traditional gameplay. This innovative variant has been exemplar in reflecting and adapting to the modern player’s preferences within the domain of online baccarat variations.

Introducing Side Bets: Dragon 7 and Panda 8

EZ Baccarat enriches the baccarat experience with the introduction of thrilling side bets. The Dragon 7 bet is a unique proposition that pays out handsomely when the Banker hits a three-card total of 7. Similar to this, the Panda 8 side bet entices players with the potential for significant winnings if the Player achieves a three-card total of 8. These side bets add layers of excitement and strategic depth, augmenting the game’s traditional allure.

Advantages of No Commission in EZ Baccarat

The most notable innovation brought by EZ Baccarat is the removal of the 5% commission on the Banker’s winning bets, an attractive feature that simplifies the winning process for players and renders the game more accessible. This absence of commission incurs a slight modification to the game’s usual odds and payouts but grants players a more streamlined, transparent, and potentially profitable experience, embodying the very shift towards commission-free play that characterises modern baccarat games.

EZ Baccarat Feature	Influence on the Game
No Banker Bet Commission	Removes traditional payouts structure, leading to a more direct reward system for Banker bets.
Dragon 7 Side Bet	Provides additional winning opportunities with specific hand outcomes, making the game more dynamic.
Panda 8 Side Bet	Introduces another layer of engagement, catering to players seeking extra betting options and higher stakes.

In conclusion, EZ Baccarat epitomises the modern era of online baccarat variations. It has garnered widespread appeal by making the game more appealing to the contemporary player through strategic modifications while still maintaining the time-honoured tradition of baccarat. In doing so, it has secured a prominent place for itself amongst modern baccarat games.

Baccarat Squeeze: Enhancing The Suspense

In a riveting twist on one of the most popular baccarat variations, Baccarat Squeeze has redefined the crescendo of anticipation that makes baccarat an exhilarating affair. Adhering to the enduring allure of classic baccarat, this variation amplifies the player’s experience by introducing a ceremonial reveal of each card. A delicate and suspenseful turnover of the banker’s and player’s cards ignites a slow-burn suspense that is rare in the rapid thrum of modern-day casino games.

The tactile act of the dealer’s deliberate and methodical squeezing of the cards translates into a physical manifestation of the phrase ‘on the edge of your seat’. It’s a deliberate ploy to heighten dramatic tension, innovatively designed to draw players into a deeper level of engagement with the game. Baccarat Squeeze caters to those with a penchant for the theatrical aspects of gambling, where the process of revelation is just as important as the outcome.

Here, each card’s slow unfurling is an art form, held in high regard by those who find pleasure in the taut moments that precede a game’s resolution. Its distinctive style sets Baccarat Squeeze apart from other baccarat game variations as it choreographs a performance from within its traditional framework. The act decides not just the fate of the round but also crafts a narrative of suspense.

For lovers of baccarat looking for a sophisticated twist on their favourite pastime, Baccarat Squeeze offers a fresh yet familiar approach. It fills the gap in a market craving for traditional game variations endowed with a contemporary edge. Below, a comparative delineation highlights the unique aspects that make Baccarat Squeeze a distinctive member in the family of baccarat variations.

Feature	Impact on Game Experience
Card Squeeze	Heightens suspense possibly affecting betting decisions
Slow Reveal	Emphasises the entertainment factor of the game
Classic Rules	Maintains the integrity and simplicity of traditional baccarat
Appeal to Players	Attracts those who savour the dramatic build-up in games of chance

This table above encapsulates the essence of Baccarat Squeeze, positioning it as a variant that not only innovates within the parameters of classic baccarat but also evolves the game to suit the sensibilities of modern players. It’s a testament to the breadth and adaptability of baccarat—a game that continues to captivate with every nuanced and thoughtfully crafted variation.

Dragon Tiger: Simplification For Fast-Paced Action

Amidst the numerous baccarat variations available, Dragon Tiger baccarat distinguishes itself by paring the game down to its most essential elements. This minimalist approach affords a fast-paced baccarat game experience that is unmistakable in its speed and simplicity, offering a particularly approachable form of the game for players of all levels.

A Lean Variant Catering to Quick Decisions

Dragon Tiger serves as the epitome of streamlined card games, demanding little more than swift judgement from its players. With only two main cards in play – one for the ‘Dragon’ and one for the ‘Tiger’ – the game is an embodiment of brisk decision-making, an adrenaline-infused race where players wager on which card will be higher.

Reduced Complexity for Beginners

For neophytes to the world of baccarat, the labyrinth of traditional rules and the dizzying array of betting options can seem daunting. Enters Dragon Tiger, resplendent in its reduced complexity and offering an inviting gateway into the arena of simple baccarat variations. It is an ideal initiatory variant, allowing newcomers to foster familiarity with the susceptive charms of baccarat without the usual intricacies.

While the ancients contested with intricate strategies and multifaceted stakes, the modern player can delight in the pure, unadorned joy of chance that Dragon Tiger baccarat embodies. In the UK, where gaming often intertwines with a desire for efficient and immediate gratification, this variant promises the quintessence of excitement with every single, swift play.

Baccarat Variations: Choosing the Best Experience

Embarking on the journey of mastering baccarat calls for a judicious selection of variants – each offering its unique blend of thrill and complexity. Whether you are a newcomer taking your first tentative steps into the realm of baccarat or a seasoned player with a penchant for strategic sophistication, knowing your ideal match amongst the multitude of baccarat variations can elevate your gaming tenure.

For Beginners: Where to Start

For those new to the world of baccarat, the wide array of baccarat variations explained can be quite daunting. Novices should aim to acquaint themselves with choosing baccarat games that promise a gentle introduction. Punto Banco, with its preordained rules and dealer-led gameplay, stands as an impeccable starting point. Similarly, EZ Baccarat poses an attractive proposition due to its no-commission approach and supplementary side bets that do not complicate the main gameplay. Both modalities favour beginners, gradually inducting them into the strategic undercurrents at a comfortable pace.

For Veterans: Seeking the Thrill of Complexity

Veterans in search of the quintessential thrill can delve into the complexities offered by various baccarat variation strategies. The time-honoured Baccarat Squeeze, with its enthralling card reveal, caters to those with a flair for drama and tension. Seasoned players may also gravitate towards the rewarding side bets of Dragon Tiger, where the stark game design belies the depth of strategy necessary in predicting the outcome of each singular card dealt.

Baccarat Variants for Every Player Type

From the illustrious strategies in Chemin de Fer to the intense suspense of Baccarat Squeeze, and the rapid staccato of decks in Dragon Tiger, the baccarat landscape is rich with choices tailored to every player’s predilections. Whether propelled by nostalgia for classic experiences or the lure of innovation and accessibility, players must gauge their comfort with risk, their strategic depth, and their preferred cadence before settling on their baccarat variant of choice.

Baccarat Variant	Player Type	Features
Punto Banco	Beginner	Rules-based gameplay, casino acts as banker
EZ Baccarat	Beginner/Intermediate	No commission on Banker bets, optional side bets
Baccarat Squeeze	Intermediate/Veteran	Card reveal process adds suspense
Dragon Tiger	Veteran	Two-card game with high-stake side bets
Chemin de Fer	Veteran	Players can be the banker, more strategic play

Ultimately, the tableau of options within the baccarat domain is as diverse as the players it beckons. With these nuances baccarat variations explained, the journey towards choosing the game that best aligns with one’s style promises to be as engaging as the play itself.

Conclusion

The vast array of baccarat variations epitomises the enchanting allure of the UK’s casino culture, each variant offering a refreshing twist on the venerable card game. Be it the ceremonious elegance of Chemin de Fer or the unfussy playability of Punto Banco, the diversity of options ensures that every player finds a comfortable niche within the kingdom of popular baccarat variations. The innovative approaches such as commission-free play echo the evolving spirit of modern gambling, while the heightened thrill in Baccarat Squeeze illustrates the game’s sensory richness.

For those drawing up baccarat variation strategies, it is paramount to explore and sample from the smorgasbord on offer. One might prefer the fast-paced immediacy of Dragon Tiger or cherish the nuanced complexities of Baccarat Banque. Each version punctuates the timeless essence of baccarat with its distinctive flair; thus, the key for casino aficionados is to seek out the variation that aligns with their personal style and strategic inclinations.

The legacy of baccarat, marked by adaptability and an undiminished charm, flourishes in the hands of those who appreciate its subtle sophistications and straightforward fun. Whether one is a beginner tentatively stepping onto the baccarat stage or a seasoned player versed in the game’s intricacies, there exists a perfect baccarat experience waiting to be discovered. This continual exploration of baccarat variations assures that the flame of this classic game burns brightly, evolving and captivating new generations across the UK’s vibrant gambling landscape.

FAQ

What are the most popular baccarat variations available in the UK?

The most popular baccarat variations in the UK include Punto Banco, which is widely appreciated for its simplicity, Chemin de Fer, known for its interactive nature, Baccarat Banque, EZ Baccarat, No Commission Baccarat, and Dragon Tiger among others. These variants are enjoyed both in land-based casinos and on online platforms.

How do the basic principles and wagers of baccarat apply across different variations?

While each baccarat variation may introduce its own specific features, the basic principles of comparing the ‘player’ and ‘banker’ hands, and the three possible outcomes — player win, banker win, and tie — largely remain consistent. The primary betting options also typically include betting on the player, banker, or a tie, although side bets and rule tweaks can alter the strategy and gameplay.

What is Chemin de Fer and how does it differ from other baccarat variations?

Chemin de Fer is one of the oldest baccarat variations where players take turns being the banker and bet against one another, rather than against the casino as in other variations. It is played with six decks of cards and is known for being more interactive and complex than other baccarat games.

Can you explain the appeal of Punto Banco for online players?

Punto Banco, also commonly referred to as American Baccarat, is preferred by many online players due to its straightforward rules and consistent gameplay, as the casino always serves as the banker. This variant is known for its scalability, catering to different betting limits and preferences on diverse table sizes like mini and midi baccarat tables.

What sets Baccarat Banque apart from other baccarat game variations?

Baccarat Banque, or ‘à Deux Tableaux’, is distinctive for its two-table play and the role of a permanent banker who competes against two player hands. It accommodates up to fourteen players and involves more strategic interaction and formality in the banker selection process compared to other baccarat variations.

How does No Commission Baccarat differ from traditional baccarat?

No Commission Baccarat removes the 5% commission traditionally charged on banker bets, with an exception for winning banker bets on a 6 where a 50% commission is taken. This changes payout structures and the house edge, offering a simpler version favoured by players aware of the subtleties in baccarat betting economics.

What are the main features of EZ Baccarat?

EZ Baccarat eliminates the commission on winning banker bets and introduces additional side bets like Dragon 7 and Panda 8, making it an attractive variation for players looking for an exciting baccarat experience. These side bets create opportunities for higher payouts and add an engaging dimension to the traditional game.

What is Baccarat Squeeze and how does it enhance the gaming experience?

Baccarat Squeeze retains the standard rules of baccarat but adds an element of suspense by having the dealer slowly reveal the cards. This creates a dramatic effect and is specifically designed for players who enjoy anticipation and excitement in their gaming sessions.

What makes Dragon Tiger a simplified baccarat variation?

Dragon Tiger simplifies the baccarat game to its core elements by focusing on single-card outcomes, rather than the traditional hand comparison. This fast-paced game is especially suitable for beginners and those who prefer quick decision-making and a less complex gaming experience.

How should beginners approach choosing a baccarat variation?

Beginners should look for baccarat variations with straightforward rules and easy-to-understand gameplay. Options such as Punto Banco or EZ Baccarat are great starting points as they offer an accessible way to learn the game without the complexities of some of the other variations.

What are the considerations for seasoned players seeking complex baccarat variations?

Seasoned players may seek out variations like Chemin de Fer or Baccarat Squeeze for more complex and interactive gameplay. They should consider their comfort with strategic betting, as well as their desire for more engaging and formal play structures that require deeper understanding and experience.

How can players determine the best baccarat variant for their play style?

Players should consider their personal preferences including their level of experience, their appetite for risk, and the pace of game they enjoy. Exploring and experimenting with different baccarat variations can help determine which game best aligns with their individual play style and which variant they find most enjoyable and rewarding.