Learn the ropes
At first glance poker can seem complicated. But with a few simple rules and some basic strategy it can be good fun for everyone. This guide is your golden ticket to understanding poker, perfect for beginners, all while highlighting the friendly faces you'll find at Metropolitan Casinos.
The Basics of How Poker Works
The objective of poker is to determine the holder of the best hand of cards, and for the winner to claim the pot by making bets that others will fold. Each player is dealt two cards (face hidden), and players construct the best possible five-card hand from their two cards and others in the centre of the table. The player with the best hand (such as straight flush, three of a kind, etc.) wins all the money wagered in that deal.
The Texas hold’em version of poker is the king of poker games for its massive popularity and appeal. We’ll start by looking at how a typical game goes:
Dealing:
The cards are shuffled, and two hidden cards are dealt to each player. The dealer then discards one unseen card and places three community cards in the middle (the flop). A second card is then turned (the turn). Finally, the third and final community card is turned (the river).
The Bets:
After the flop, turn and river cards are turned, each player has the opportunity to bet. You can either:
The Order of Hands:
It is very important to know which hands are stronger in order to make the right decisions. Below is the list of poker hands rankings from the highest to the lowest in Texas Hold'em which every beginner must learn when trying how to play poker:
Royal Flush: The unbeatable hand, consisting of an Ace, King, Queen, Jack, and Ten all in the same suit.
For example, A♠ K♠ Q♠ J♠ 10♠.
Straight Flush: Five consecutive cards of the same suit.
For example, 8♠ 9♠ 10♠ J♠ Q♠.
Four of a Kind: Four cards of the same rank, plus one side card or ‘kicker.’
For example, Q♣ Q♦ Q♠ Q♥ 5♠.
Full House: Three cards of one rank and two cards of another rank.
For example, K♣ K♠ K♦ 5♣ 5♦.
Flush: Five cards of the same suit, not in sequence.
For example, A♠ K♠ 10♠ 5♠ 3♠.
Straight: Five consecutive cards of different suits.
For example, 10♣ 9♠ 8♦ 7♥ 6♠.
Three of a Kind: Three cards of the same rank and two unrelated side cards.
For example, 7♣ 7♥ 7♠ K♦ 2♠.
Two Pair: Two cards of one rank, two cards of another rank, and one unrelated side card.
For example, J♣ J♠ 4♣ 4♠ 9♦.
One Pair: Two cards of the same rank and three unrelated side cards.
For example, 9♣ 9♦ A♠ 7♥ 5♠.
High Card: The highest card in your hand when no other hand is made.
For example, if you hold K♠ 10♣ 7♦ 6♠ 2♥, your highest card is the King.
Understanding these hand rankings is fundamental to mastering poker rules and will help you make better decisions during the game, increasing your chances of success and enhancing your overall poker experience. These rankings are a core part of poker rules and will be referenced frequently as you learn how to play poker and engage in various poker games.
Once you’re more confident in your game, you can start to experiment with some more sophisticated poker strategies. Here are some things to consider:
Position: Your position at the table will have a huge impact on your options when you’re facing the dealer. If you’re in an early position you’ll be the first to act before the flop, giving you minimal information about your opponents’ hands. If you’re in a late position, you can use others’ actions before you to help inform your decisions.
Bluffing: This strategy includes wagering on a hand that you think is not as strong as your opponent's, with the goal of getting them to fold and taking the pot without having the superior hand. Successful bluffing involves thoughtful analysis of aspects such as your image at the table, the odds of the pot, and how your opponent plays.
Reading Players: Watching how your opponent's act can offer useful clues about the strength of their hand. Search for signals, such as physical or verbal cues, that could show their level of confidence. Nevertheless, it's important to be careful, because skilled players may use deceptive cues to trick their rivals.
Metropolitan Casinos offer a variety of poker options to cater to your preferences and experience level. Here's a breakdown of the most common formats:
You buy in for a predetermined number of chips and can play until you decide to leave the table. You can replenish your chips throughout the session if you happen to lose your stack. Cash games usually have a minimum and maximum bet, making the betting ranges more structured.
Tournaments have a predetermined buy-in and guaranteed prize pool for the winner(s). All players begin with the same amount of chips and the blinds increase at set periods during the game. As players run out of chips they are eliminated from the tournament. The winner at the end of the tournament takes home the largest portion of the prize pool. Tournaments let you win a big payout with a relatively small buy-in.
But you have to be willing to put in the time and stamina because tournaments can last hours.
For a full list and details of upcoming tournaments, check our tournament schedule page.
At Metropolitan Casinos, we promote responsible gambling. We encourage all players to gamble safely and within their means. Here are some key points to remember:
Set Limits: Before you start playing, determine a budget you're comfortable losing and stick to it. Don't chase losses by exceeding your budget.
Take Breaks: Poker can be mentally taxing. Take regular breaks to step away from the table, refresh yourself, and avoid emotional decision-making.
Know When to Stop: If you're feeling overwhelmed or losing control, don't hesitate to walk away from the game. There is always another time to play.
For helpful resources and information on setting play limits or self-exclusion, visit the Safer Gambling resources provided by Metropolitan Gaming.
Remember:
Poker should be a fun and enjoyable experience. Don't be afraid to ask our friendly staff for help if you have any questions. We look forward to welcoming you to the tables at Metropolitan Casinos!
Poker is a thrilling game that anyone can enjoy and play at any level. Enjoy playing poker by learning the basics, using helpful strategies and with the aid of support staff here at Metropolitan Casinos and you can ensure that you experience a great game of poker. Why not come and visit us and join our friendly community of poker players.
