Poker

Mastering Casino Poker: Ultimate Guide

If you’ve either always wanted to play or have never played poker at a casino, it may seem intimidating compared to playing at home with some friends. Hard Rock Cincinnati wants to show you how easy it is to sit at our table and start to rake in the chips. We’ve put together this poker strategy guide to help teach new players how to play casino poker so anyone, not just Cincinnati, OH, residents, can have fun at our poker tables. Each table is staffed with knowledgeable dealers who would happily answer any questions you may have to ensure you feel comfortable and ready to play. Once you’re ready, be sure to come and see what Hard Rock Cincinnati has to offer. We look forward to seeing you at a table!

Discover the History of the Game

Did you know that poker is considered 1,000 years old? While there is no definitive origin for the game, researchers believe it was a card game played in a dynasty of China in the 10^th century, or it could have been an adaptation of an ancient Persian card game. Another game boasts the origin of poker from 17^th century France called Poque. Poque grew in popularity and eventually spread up and down the Mississippi River during the 19^th century and then across the United States. Over the years, several poker variants appeared, such as Texas Hold’em, five-card draw, and seven-card stud. The most popular variant is Texas Hold’em, which grew in popularity in the 1970s and is featured in the world series of Poker.

Learn the Rules of Poker

Learning to play basic casino poker isn’t as complicated as most people believe. While there are several varieties and spins on poker, there are generally two types: stud and draw poker. The rules for these two are nearly identical. If you’re playing stud poker, you’re dealt five cards, and based on the strength of your hand, you place your bet. The best hand wins. For draw poker, each player is dealt five cards, and a round of betting happens. Players can then try to better their hands by trading up to three cards for three new cards. In the better round, the player can raise the bet, fold their cards, call or equal it, or check if it hasn’t been increased. Regardless of the game you play, there exists a hierarchy of hands. Cards are ranked from best to works, with the Ace being the most valuable and the two being the lowest. The order is as follows: Ace, King, Queen, Jack, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2. These cards are combined to create specific hands, including:

·       High Card – If no combination is made, it comes down to the highest value card in the player’s hand.

·       One Pair – A pair is formed when a player has two of the same cards, such as two Kings.

·       Two Pair – Same as one pair, but with two cards. If two players have two pair, the highest pair wins.

·       Three of a Kind – Three of the same kind of card regardless of suit.

·       Straight – This hand is a five-cards running in a sequence regardless of the suit, such as 4,5,6,7,8.

·       Flush – A player with five cards of the same suit is considered a flush. If two players have a flush, the highest card suit wins.

·       Full House – This is when a player has three of a kind and a pair in the same hand.

·       Four of a Kind – If you’re lucky enough to have four of a given number, you have one of the most powerful hands in the game.

·       Straight Flush – This is a hand made of five consecutive cards, all in the same suit. An example would be 9, 10, Jack, Queen, and King of Hearts.

·       Royal Flush – Without a doubt, a royal flush is the most famous poker hand. It’s formed by a straight flush with an Ace, making it unbeatable.

Visit Our Tables Today!

As you can see, basic poker is simple to pick up and enjoy but offers plenty of room for mastery. Hard Rock Cincinnati offers live-action poker tables and access to 24/7 live poker videos and online games while you wait for a spot at one of our tables. Whether you’ve been playing for years or just learning how to play poker, be sure to try your luck with us. Between hands, be sure to take advantage of our other experiences. We offer unrivaled dining, entertainment, and drinks, so make the most of your visit. Don’t hesitate to reach out to learn more about our live table games and how to sign up for our Unity Card Rewards program.