Poker is a game of chance played with cards. It has been around for centuries and is enjoyed by people across the globe. It is a popular game in casinos, on riverboats and in poker clubs.
Before the cards are dealt, each player puts a contribution into the pot called an “ante” (which is usually a small amount). Once all of the players have put in their ante, the dealer deals two cards to each player.
Each player has the option to fold, which means that they will not play this round and lose their ante, or to call, which means that they will match the previous highest bet and continue to play. They also have the option to raise, which increases their previous bet.
Card rankings and hands
The strength of a hand is determined by the rank of each card. If two players have identical hands, the higher card wins. A straight beats a lower one, while a flush breaks ties.
There are a few unwritten rules of poker etiquette that help games run smoothly and allow everyone to enjoy the action. These include: