You can bet on one or both.

The Ante Bet: You look at your hand and decide whether to "Play" (by placing an additional bet equal to your Ante) or "Fold" (losing your Ante). The Five-Card Challenge This game adds the thrill of a lottery-style win to classic poker. Gameplay Explained The game involves two main bets: the Ante and the Pair Plus. The Pair Plus Bet: The payout increases for stronger hands like a flush, straight, or three-of-a-kind.

This guide explores some of the most popular casino poker variants you'll find at both land-based and online casinos. The goal is not to bluff your opponents, but simply to make a better poker hand than the dealer. When most people hear the word "poker," they immediately think of Texas Hold'em, the game made famous by the World Series of Poker.

The progressive jackpot side bet (usually costing just $1) pays out for very strong hands, with a Royal Flush typically winning the entire jackpot. How It Works You then look at your hand and decide to either "Raise" (placing a bet twice the size of your Ante) or "Fold." If you raise, the dealer reveals their remaining four cards.

Follow a Basic Strategy Chart: These charts tell you the mathematically correct decision (fold or play/raise) for any hand you are dealt. Next time you're at the casino, look beyond the main poker room and give one of these exciting variants a try. Conclusion: A Different Kind of Poker They combine the familiar hand rankings of poker with the fast-paced, easy-to-understand format of a table game like blackjack. Know the Qualifying Hand: It's the foundation of basic strategy for when to fold or play. Side Bets Have a High House Edge: They are fun for a shot at a big win, but they will drain your bankroll faster over time.

Top Tier (e.g., Diamond, Noir) High-stakes players, "high rollers." A personal casino host, complimentary suites, web site free airfare, limousine service, gourmet meals, exclusive access to VIP lounges, top-tier show tickets. Program Level Typical Player Common Comps and Perks

Entry Level (e.g., Gold, Sapphire) All players who sign up. Concentrate Your Play: It's often better to give all your play to one casino or web page casino group (e.g., MGM Resorts or Caesars Entertainment) rather than spreading it out. Basic point accumulation, discounted room offers, free slot play mailers, invitations to small events. Getting the Most Out of Your Play

Always Use Your Card: This is the most basic and important rule. Bonus point multipliers, priority check-in lines, complimentary access to buffets or cafes, some free hotel nights. Understand the Games: The casino values the "coin-in" (total amount wagered), not necessarily how much you win or lose on a given day. Mid-Tier (e.g., Platinum, Pearl) Moderate-stakes gamblers. Ask for Comps: Especially for web site table game players, don't be afraid to politely ask the pit boss if they can "rate" you or if there's anything they can do for webpage you for a meal. Final Thoughts The casino is not giving you free things out of kindness