If you’re looking for a fun and easy-to-learn casino game, 4 card poker might just be the perfect fit. This game is similar to three card poker, but with an added fourth card for more potential winning hands. In this tutorial, we’ll go over all the basics of how to play 4 card poker in the casino.
How to Set Up a Game of 4 Card Poker
Before you can start playing 4 card poker, you need to know how to set up the game. First, place your ante bet on the table. This is a mandatory bet that every player must make in order to participate in the game.
Once all players have placed their ante bets, each player will receive five cards face down from the dealer. The dealer will also receive five cards, but one of their cards will be face up and visible to all players.
Understanding Hand Rankings
In order to play 4 card poker effectively, you need to understand the hand rankings. The goal of the game is to make the best four-card hand possible using your five cards.
Here are the hand rankings from highest to lowest:
- Four-of-a-kind: Four cards of the same rank.
- Straight flush: Four cards of consecutive rank and suit.
- Three-of-a-kind: Three cards of the same rank.
- Straight: Four cards of consecutive rank (not necessarily same suit).
- Flush: Four cards of the same suit (not necessarily consecutive).
- Two pair: Two pairs of cards with matching ranks.
- Pair: Two cards with matching ranks.
If two or more players have hands of the same rank, the tie will be broken by the highest card in the hand.
The Betting Rounds
After each player receives their five cards, there are two betting rounds. The first betting round is called the “play” bet. This is where players can choose to either fold or make a play bet.
If you choose to fold, you forfeit your ante bet and all subsequent bets. If you choose to make a play bet, it must be equal to your ante bet.
Once all players have made their play bets (or folded), the dealer will reveal their remaining four cards. The dealer’s hand must contain at least an Ace-King high in order to qualify.
Winning or Losing
If the dealer doesn’t qualify, all remaining players win even money on their ante bets and their play bets are returned to them. If the dealer does qualify, each player’s hand will be compared to the dealer’s hand.
If your hand is higher than the dealer’s hand, you win even money on both your ante and play bets. If your hand is lower than the dealer’s hand, you lose both bets. If your hand ties with the dealer’s hand, both bets push (are returned).
Bonus Bets
Many casinos offer bonus bets for 4 card poker as well. These are optional side bets that can pay out big if certain hands are made.
For example, some casinos offer a bonus payout for making a four-of-a-kind or straight flush with specific card ranks (such as A-2-3-4 or 10-J-Q-K). These bonus payouts can vary from casino to casino, so be sure to check with your specific casino for details.
Conclusion
4 card poker is an easy-to-learn game that offers plenty of excitement and potential wins. With just a little bit of practice and knowledge of the hand rankings and betting rounds, you’ll be ready to play like a pro in no time. So head to your nearest casino and give 4 card poker a try!
