Poker is an exciting card game that involves luck, strategy and a lot of ups and downs. If you are new to the game of poker, there is a lot to learn but once you get the hang of it, it’s a fun and addictive experience that can keep you coming back for more.

Basics of the Game

Players start with a certain number of chips (depending on the game) and they bet into the pot once or twice before the dealer gives them their hole cards. After each bet, everyone gets to check, raise or fold their hands. After the dealer shows them the highest hand wins the pot.

Betting Intervals

The cards are dealt in a sequence, beginning with the dealer’s hole card and followed by three betting intervals. In each of these intervals, the player with the highest-ranking poker combination in his faceup cards is first to bet.

After the third round, the dealer deals a fifth card to anyone who is still in the hand. This card is called the river. In this last betting interval, the player with the best hand wins the pot.