Three card poker is a popular casino game that combines the excitement of poker with the speed and simplicity of a casino table game. The game is played with a standard 52-card deck and is easy to learn, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced players alike.
Rules of Three Card Poker
The rules of three card poker are simple. Players make an ante bet and are dealt three cards. The dealer also receives three cards, but they are facedown. After looking at their cards, players must decide whether to fold or make a play bet. If the player folds, they forfeit their ante bet. If they make a play bet, the dealer reveals their cards and the hands are compared.
To qualify, the dealer must have a hand of at least a queen high. If the dealer does not qualify, the player wins even money on their ante bet and their play bet is returned. If the dealer qualifies and the player's hand is better, the player wins even money on both bets. If the dealer qualifies and the player's hand is worse, the player loses both bets.
Basic Strategy for Three Card Poker
There are several basic strategies that players can use to increase their chances of winning at three card poker. One of the most important is to always make a play bet if you have a hand of queen-six-four or better. This will give you the best chance of winning over the long run.
Another strategy is to avoid making the optional pair plus bet. While this bet can pay out big if you get a good hand, the odds of getting a winning hand are relatively low. It's better to focus on the main game and try to win by having a better hand than the dealer.
Variations of Three Card Poker
There are several variations of three card poker that you might encounter at different casinos. One popular variation is called "Prime" three card poker, where the player wins a bonus payout if their three cards are all the same color or all the same suit.
Another variation is called "Six Card Bonus" three card poker, where the player receives a bonus payout if they make the best possible five-card hand using their three cards and the dealer's three cards.
Conclusion
Three card poker is a fun and exciting casino game that offers players the chance to win big payouts with minimal effort. By following basic strategy and avoiding optional bets, players can increase their chances of winning and have a great time at the casino.
