How to Play Three Card Poker

The objective of Three Card Poker is straightforward: you aim to beat the dealer’s hand with the three cards you are dealt. There are no options to change your cards or adjust your bets once the cards are dealt.

The gameplay in Three Card Poker is straightforward, making it an easy game to learn for beginners. Here’s a breakdown of the basic steps involved in playing:

How to Bet

Before the cards are dealt, players must decide how they want to bet:

• Ante Bet: The primary bet where players are betting that their hand will beat the dealer’s hand.
• Pair Plus Bet: An optional side bet where players win if their hand consists of a pair or higher, regardless of the dealer’s hand.
• Prime Bet: Another optional side bet that can only be placed if you have also placed an Ante or Pair Plus bet. You win the Prime Bet if all three of your cards are the same colour.

Players have the flexibility to place either the Ante bet, the Pair Plus bet, or both.

The Deal

Once the bets are placed, both the player and the dealer are dealt three cards, face down. Players then look at their cards and decide whether to fold or play:

• Fold: Players who fold lose their Ante bet.
• Play: Players who wish to continue must place an additional bet, equal to their Ante, in the Play box. This must be done after seeing their cards if they wish to play the hand against the dealer.

After all players have made their decisions, the dealer reveals their cards. The dealer must have at least a queen-high hand for their hand to qualify. If the dealer’s hand does not qualify, the Ante bet is paid even money, and the Play bet is returned to you. If the dealer’s hand qualifies, the dealer’s hand is compared to yours, and the higher hand wins.

In Three Card Poker, hands are ranked slightly differently than in traditional five-card poker due to the smaller number of cards. Here’s how the hands are ranked from highest to lowest:

1. Straight Flush: Three consecutive cards of the same suit.
2. Three of a Kind: Three cards of the same rank.
3. Straight: Three consecutive cards of any suit.
4. Flush: Three cards of the same suit, not in sequence.
5. Pair: Two cards of the same rank.
6. High Card: If none of the above hands are formed, the highest card in your hand is counted.

There are multiple ways to win in Three Card Poker, and the payouts depend on the type of bet and the strength of your hand:

Ante Bet

Winning hands in the Ante and Play bets pay even money (1:1). Additionally, there is an Ante Bonus that pays extra for strong hands, regardless of the dealer’s hand:

• Straight Flush: 5:1
• Three of a Kind: 4:1
• Straight: 1:1

Pair Plus Bet

The Pair Plus bet rewards players based on the value of their hand, even if the dealer has a better hand. The typical payout structure is:

• Straight Flush: 35:1
• Three of a Kind: 33:1
• Straight: 6:1
• Flush: 4:1
• Pair: 1:1

If you have a pair or better you will be paid even if the dealer has a better hand.

Prime Bet

You also have the option to play the Prime bet. To win the Prime bet all three player cards need to be the same colour. You can only play Prime if you play on at least one of the Ante or Pair Plus bets.

In Three Card Poker, maintaining proper etiquette ensures a smooth and enjoyable game for all players. Although not official rules, these guidelines help promote a respectful and organised table atmosphere. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Don’t touch your chips after betting: Once you’ve placed your bet, avoid touching your chips until the round is complete.
• Avoid splashing chips: Place your chips carefully when betting to prevent confusion or accusations of tampering.
• Keep the pace: Be prepared to make your decision quickly to keep the game moving efficiently.
• Be respectful: Treat both the dealer and other players with courtesy and avoid disruptive behavior.
• Refrain from revealing your hand: Do not show your cards or discuss your hand before the round is over.
• Handle cards properly: Only touch your cards when allowed, and avoid bending or damaging them.
• Avoid using a cell phone: Keep your phone off the table to avoid distractions and maintain focus on the game.
• Cards must remain on the table: Keep your cards over the table at all times.
• Players must remain seated: Stay in your seat during the game.

Now that you’ve learned the essentials of Three Card Poker, plan a visit to Napoleons Manchester, Bradford, Hull, Sheffield, or Leeds venues. Our professional dealers will be on hand to guide you through the game.