Pragmatic Play has introduced Seotda Baccarat, a new live casino release combining baccarat with the traditional Korean card game Seotda. Standard playing cards with a Hwatu deck introduce a completely different hand-ranking system compared to conventional baccarat tables.

The game features a 20-card Hwatu deck, with cards corresponding to the months from January to October. Each card has a specific value under Seotda rules, and rounds are decided by the strength of two-card combinations dealt to the Player and Banker.

Seotda Rules Replace Standard Baccarat Scoring

Seotda Baccarat eliminates the third-card draw. Both sides receive two cards, creating much shorter rounds and a faster overall pace compared to standard baccarat formats.

Instead of relying on a point-total system, the game follows Seotda hand rankings. Different card matches produce different outcomes under the custom ruleset, giving the game a noticeably different rhythm compared to classic live baccarat.

Pragmatic Play has stepped away from the standard red-and-black baccarat presentation seen across many live casino studios. Korean-inspired graphics, Hwatu artwork, and themed dealer uniforms give the game a visual identity.

Bright Cards Create High-Paying Side Bets

Bright cards introduce the main side-bet feature in Seotda Baccarat. Marked with the symbol “光”, they represent the highest-value cards in the deck and unlock additional payout opportunities.

Player Bright and Banker Bright side bets can pay out up to 80:1 when qualifying combinations align. These payouts are significantly higher than the side-bet returns often seen at traditional baccarat tables.

Pragmatic Play described the release as an attempt to introduce a more accessible version of Seotda using familiar baccarat betting structures. The streamlined two-card format allows faster decision-making while core betting options remain recognisable for traditional baccarat players.

The launch continues Pragmatic Play’s ongoing expansion into alternative live casino products, building on recent releases, Gates of Olympus Roulette and other branded table game variations.

Sharon McHugh, Director of Public Relations at Pragmatic Play, said: 

“Seotda Baccarat brings together two popular card games in a way that feels fresh and authentic. By combining the vibrant Hwatu deck with familiar baccarat betting mechanics, this release delivers a first-of-its-kind live casino experience designed to elevate casinos’ live lobbies. And, by the way, it’s pronounced soo-da!”