Unlike most other forms of poker, Caribbean poker is played against the
house. Although there are other players at the table, the object is to beat the
dealer - much like blackjack.
Although the game requires more thinking and strategy than other online
casino games, Caribbean poker is easy enough to play once you understand
intricacies.
However, before even contemplating playing Caribbean poker, you have to be
familiar with the rules of the game.
The first rule of the game is the ante rule. An ante bet is a sum of money
that is placed in the demarcated area at the Caribbean poker table. This ante
bet varies according to the table limits, with the ante usually being equal to
the minimum bet.
Once all the ante bets are placed, the dealer will deal 5 cards to each
player. Each player will receive these 5 cards face down. However, the dealer
will receive 5 cards with 1 of them face up.
You will then be asked to bet. If you wish to continue with your hand then
you need to place a bet that is at least double your ante bet. If you do not
wish to continue then you will "fold" your cards and the dealer will take your
ante bet.
Betting depends entirely on what cards you are holding. The dealer's face up
card does not necessarily give you enough information to make a decision on
whether to play or fold, but it is still information than you would have
ordinarily had - so take advantage of it.
The Rules of Winning
In order for the dealer to even qualify for a winning hand, he/she must have
at least an Ace and a King. If the dealer does not qualify then each player is
paid out even money for the ante bet and the game stops there.
However, if the dealer does qualify then things get more interesting. If the
dealer has a stronger hand then you will lose both your ante bet and your call
bet. If you have a winning hand, however, you will be paid out according to the
Caribbean poker pay table. These payout tables vary across the different online
casinos, but the most common version is as follows:
1-1 for a pair
2-1 for two pair
3-1 for three of a kind
4-1 for a straight
5-1 for a flush
7-1 for a full house
20-1 for a four of a kind
50-1 for a straight flush
100-1 for a royal flush
The house edge for Caribbean poker sits around 5%, but this edge is quickly
diminished if you know basic strategy play. If you do not have a strong hand
then you should rather forfeit your ante bet and hold out for a winning hand,
rather than throwing more money down the tubes by betting on a weak hand.
