As you probably already know, the casino world is full of different variations of games, and the same goes for poker. There are many different poker variations, but the one that gets a lot of attention recently is three-card poker.
Now, the name sounds strange, especially for players who have been playing Texas Hold’em Poker for a long time. So, you may leave with question marks about how to play three card poker.
Well, the number of cards isn’t the only difference in Three Card Poker. In fact, it is a completely different game from traditional poker, and the only thing that is the same is the hand is the hand rankings, but they are also a bit different.
Unlike traditional poker where players compete against each other, this game is played against the dealer. Yes, you’ve heard that right. You gather along and play against the dealer, similar to Blackjack.
But let’s dive deeper into the rules of the game, how is played, and strategies that will make you a pro at your next Three-Card Poker session.
How to Play Three Card Poker
The game begins with each player placing an initial bet, known as the Ante. Players also have the option to place additional side bets, such as the Pair Plus bet, which pays out based on the strength of their hand, regardless of whether they win against the dealer.
Once all bets are placed, both the player and the dealer receive three cards each, dealt face-down. The goal is simple: make the best three-card poker hand possible.
After looking at their cards, players must decide whether to fold (forfeiting their Ante bet) or raise (placing an additional Play bet equal to the Ante). If the player raises, the dealer reveals their cards to determine the winner.
However, the dealer must qualify with a Queen-high or better; otherwise, the player automatically wins the Ante bet, and the Play bet is returned.
Hand Rankings in Three-Card Poker
Three Card Poker has slightly different hand rankings compared to standard five-card poker. Here’s how hands are ranked from highest to lowest:
- Straight Flush – Three consecutive cards of the same suit (e.g., 7♠ 8♠ 9♠).
- Three of a Kind – Three cards of the same rank (e.g., K♣ K♦ K♠).
- Straight – Three consecutive cards of any suit (e.g., 5♦ 6♠ 7♣).
- Flush – Three cards of the same suit, but not in sequence (e.g., 2♥ 6♥ 10♥).
- Pair – Two cards of the same rank (e.g., 9♣ 9♦ 3♠).
- High Card – If none of the above hands are made, the highest single card determines the hand’s strength.
Unlike five-card poker, a straight is ranked higher than a flush because it is statistically harder to achieve in a three-card format.
Payouts and Side Bets
Three Card Poker offers multiple betting options, each with different payout structures:
- Ante and Play Bets – If the player wins, they are paid even money (1:1) on both bets.
- Pair Plus Bet – This optional side bet pays out based on the strength of the player’s hand, with typical payouts as follows:
- Straight Flush: 40:1
- Three of a Kind: 30:1
- Straight: 6:1
- Flush: 3:1
- Pair: 1:1
- Ante Bonus – If a player holds a Straight, Three of a Kind, or Straight Flush, they receive an Ante Bonus regardless of whether they win or lose against the dealer.
Basic Strategy for Three Card Poker
Because Three Card Poker is a relatively straightforward game, its optimal strategy is simple: only raise when you have a Queen-6-4 or better.
This means if your highest card is a Queen, your second card should be at least a 6, and your third card should be at least a 4. Otherwise, folding is the best decision.
The Pair Plus bet, while exciting, has a higher house edge than the main game. If you prefer a lower-risk approach, sticking to the Ante and Play bets will give you the best long-term odds.
Why Play Three Card Poker?
Three Card Poker is one of the most beginner-friendly casino table games. The simple rules, fast gameplay, and multiple betting options make it a favorite for both casual players and seasoned gamblers.
Unlike other poker variants that require complex strategies and player-versus-player competition, Three Card Poker pits you against the dealer, eliminating the psychological warfare element and making it easier to focus on having fun.
Final Words
Unlike most variants of casino games, Three Card Poker is actually a lot different from traditional poker. But sometimes, different is good, especially if you are bored with the same repetitive gameplay of Poker and you want to spice things up a bit.
This is a simpler version of poker, and a more beginner-friendly casino game. The gameplay is also faster, and it includes plenty of betting options.
So, if you want a break from the complex strategies, bluffing and psychological warfare in Poker, maybe you should play Three card Poker.
