To most people, the draw of this
game seems to be based on their familiarity with the game of
poker and the relative ease by which it is played. If you are
familiar with this game, you will agree that with no real opponent
and no way for your actions to affect the outcome for other
participants, it is one of the few non-threatening casino table
games.
The table used is very similar to that of Blackjack, nothing
more than an oval with seven betting areas to accommodate up
to seven players. Directly in front of each player is an area
with three separate circles which are individually marked in
their centers with a 1, 2 and $ symbol.
The game utilizes a standard 52-card deck, which is shuffled
automatically prior to the dealing of the cards. Players are
initially dealt three cards, which combine with the dealer's
two community cards. These two " community" cards
are utilized by every player at the table to make a standard
five card Poker hand. Play begins after each participant places
at least the table minimum wager in each of the three betting
circles. Most casinos have the minimum set for this game at
$5, so the total bet on any single hand will be $15. Even though
$15 is bet to begin the game, only 1/3 of the total amount is
truly at risk. Players are given the option as the game proceeds
to remove up to two of those three bets.
In addition to the standard three betting circles, many casinos
are now offering a $1 bonus game, very similar to that of Caribbean
Stud Poker. It is an optional bet placed prior to the start
of the game, and yields additional payouts for specified hands.
We will go more into detail later, as well as take a look at
a sample of atypical
pay schedule.
