Poker is a very popular table game in both online and physical casinos known for its blend of strategy, chance, and skill. Poker comes in different variants, giving players the chance to try something new with the basic rule being – you win the game by having the best hand or convincing other players to fold.
Online casinos offer poker and the different variants for players to explore, each with their unique gameplay. There is also a live online poker section which is led by a professional dealer using a live video, so players can experience the casino without being in it. They are allowed to do everything they would do in a physical casino like interact with other players and place bets.
Poker has a lot to offer and the best way to enjoy the benefits is by understanding casino poker. Players interested in the poker section are sure to find a long list of variations to try out. So, let’s dive into the world of casino poker; its varieties and how it works.
How Poker Works
A game of poker has different rules, but they are slightly altered depending on the type of poker game you’re playing. In poker, you have to know what you’re doing, use a working strategy, and you might just be lucky. So, how does the game work?
Players bet on the ranking they believe their hands (cards) are worth in order to win the pot. To win, they either make the last bet that no other player calls or have the highest-ranking hand. Poker is a game of bluff – you could bluff that your card is worth more than it actually is and win the game because other players believed you.
During the betting rounds, players are dealt hidden cards and they form a five-card hand using community and their own cards. Players can call (match a bet), raise (increase a bet), or fold (quit the game). So, what’s the goal? Build a strong five-card hand with the highest rankings.
Tips for Playing Live Online Poker
- To make the right decisions, be familiar with the specific rules of the poker variant you’re playing.
- Manage your bankroll effectively. As a new-time player, it is advisable to start with lower stakes to get used to the game. Seasoned players should also do this so they get used to the betting structure and pace.
- Timing matters when playing live online poker. Make a decision and be ready to act when it’s your turn so you don’t miss opportunities.
Common Poker Variants in Online Casinos
- Texas Hold’em: This is one of the highest poker variants in terms of popularity, serving as the best starting point for beginner players. The game works in four different stages:
- Pre-flop: In the first stage, every player is given two hole hidden cards.
- The flop: In the second stage, players are given three community cards face up.
- The turn: Players get a fourth community card.
- The river: Players get a fifth community card.
After each stage, players place their bets and do their usual call, fold, or raise after checking the worth of their cards. The aim of the game is the same, have the best five-card hand out of the seven available cards.
- Seven-Card Stud: This variant was very popular among players before it was dethroned by Texas Hold’em. In this variant, there are two to eight players and they don’t get the flop stage or community cards. Players get seven cards (four face up and three face down) and are to have the best five-card hand to win.
In each round, everyone shows some of their cards and during the last round, everyone reveals their hand.
- Omaha Hold’em: If you love Texas Hold’em, then you’ll surely like this poker variant. Both games are quite similar but Omaha offers more, with each player getting 4 hole cards instead of 2. So, you create your best five-card hand from those 2 cards and 3 community cards.
- Five-Card Draw: When it comes to surprising players, this poker variant takes the lead. It can be classified as one of the simplest poker games and here’s why. Players are dealt five cards face down instantly. You can then choose to fold or continue playing. If you choose the latter, you can exchange up to three of you cards if they aren’t good enough.
If after a draw, there are two or more active players, every player reveals their hand and the player with the best five-card combination wins the pot.
Final Thoughts
Poker is an exciting table game to play, and it becomes a lot more exciting due to the many variants available for players to try. Live poker offers players the chance to experience a simulated version of a poker game in a physical casino without leaving their homes. Players can also try out normal poker games if they don’t want a live version. Regardless, there is something for everyone.
