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Man holding 3 cards at a Poker table

Three Card Poker

Three Card Poker is a popular casino game that combines the simplicity of traditional poker with fast-paced excitement. With just three cards dealt to each player, the game is easy to learn and offers multiple betting options, making it appealing to beginners and experienced players.
 

What Is Three Card Poker?


Three Card Poker is a casino table game played with a standard 52-card deck. Unlike traditional poker, where players compete against each other, Three Card Poker is played against the dealer. The game includes multiple ways to win, from standard hands to bonus payouts, making it a favorite for those who enjoy quick, engaging gameplay.
 

Origins of Three Card Poker


Three Card Poker was invented in 1994 by Derek Webb, a professional poker player seeking to create a casino game that combined the strategy of poker with the speed of table games like blackjack. Webb's innovation quickly gained popularity and is now a staple in casinos worldwide, valued for its simplicity and versatility.

How to Play Three Card Poker


Learning how to play three-card poker is easy as the game is straightforward. Here's what you need to know:
 

Setting Up the Game


Three Card Poker begins with players placing their bets. There are two main betting options:
  • Ante: A wager that pits the player's hand against the dealer's hand.
  • Pair Plus: A side bet on whether the player will have a pair or better, independent of the dealer's hand.
Players can choose to make one or both bets before the cards are dealt.
 

Step-by-Step Gameplay

 
  • Place Your Bets: Players decide on their ante, Pair Plus, or both, and place the corresponding chips on the table.
  • Deal the Cards: Each player and the dealer receive three cards, dealt face-down.
  • Evaluate Your Hand: Players examine their cards to decide whether to play (place an additional Play bet equal to the Ante) or fold, forfeiting their Ante bet.
  • Dealer Qualification: The dealer's hand must qualify with a Queen-high or better to compete. Ante bets are paid even money if the dealer does not qualify, and Play bets are returned to the player.
  • Compare Hands: If the dealer qualifies, the player's hand is compared to the dealer's. If the player's hand wins, both the Ante and Play bets pay even money. If the dealer's hand wins, the player loses both bets. Ties result in a push, and bets are returned.
  • Bonus Payouts: Bonus payouts for specific hands may be awarded regardless of the dealer's hand.
 

Three Card Poker Rules


Three Card Poker has straightforward rules, making it easy for new players to understand. The main objective is to have a better three-card hand than the dealer or to make a Pair Plus bet and win based on hand rankings alone. After viewing their cards, players must decide to fold or place an additional Play bet. 
 

Three Card Poker Hand Rankings


Hand rankings in Three Card Poker are slightly different from traditional poker due to the smaller number of cards. Here's a quick overview of the rankings from highest to lowest:

1. Straight Flush: Three consecutive cards of the same suit (e.g., 5, 6, 7 of Hearts).
2. Three-of-a-Kind: Three cards of the same rank (e.g., three Kings).
3. Straight: Three consecutive cards of different suits (e.g., 4 of Hearts, 5 of Diamonds, 6 of Clubs).
4. Flush: Three cards of the same suit, not in sequence (e.g., 2, 5, and 10 of Spades).
5. Pair: Two cards of the same rank (e.g., two Queens).
6. High Card: The highest card in the hand when no other ranking applies (e.g., an Ace-high hand).

These rankings determine the outcome of both Ante and Pair Plus bets, with specific payouts for premium hands like straight flushes and three-of-a-kind. 
 
Man holding 3 cards at a Poker table


Three Card Poker Bets


Three Card Poker offers multiple betting options, giving players flexibility and opportunities for additional payouts. The betting structure allows players to enjoy the game at their own pace, making it accessible for both beginners and seasoned players.
 

Pair Plus

The Pair Plus bet is a side wager that doesn't involve the dealer's hand. It pays out based on the player's hand alone if they achieve a pair or better. Payouts for Pair Plus bets typically follow this structure:
  • Straight Flush: 40:1
  • Three of a Kind: 30:1
  • Straight: 6:1
  • Flush: 4:1
  • Pair: 1:1

This bet is popular for its simplicity and high payout potential, as it focuses solely on the strength of the player's hand.
 

Ante


The Ante bet is the primary wager in Three Card Poker. Players place this bet to compete against the dealer's hand. After viewing their cards, players can either fold (losing the Ante) or place an additional Play bet equal to the Ante to continue. The dealer's hand must have a Queen-high or better to qualify. The Ante bet pays even money if the dealer does not qualify, and the Play bet is returned.
 

Both


Players can choose to place both the Ante and Pair Plus bets simultaneously. Even if the dealer's hand wins, a high Pair Plus payout can still result in an overall profit. You must make a Play bet to make this bet, however.
 

Bonus


The Ante Bonus is an additional payout players can receive based on their hand strength, regardless of whether the dealer qualifies or not. Common payouts for Ante Bonuses include:
 
  • Straight Flush: 5:1
  • Three of a Kind: 4:1
  • Straight: 1:1

If you make the Ante and Play bets, you qualify for this bonus payout.

Three Card Poker Odds and House Edge


Three Card Poker offers competitive odds, particularly when players use an optimal strategy. The house edge for Pair Plus is approximately 2.32 percent, while the house edge for the Ante and Play Bets is approximately 3.37 percent. The relatively low house edge makes Three Card Poker a favorable choice for casino players, while the high payouts for premium hands keep the game exciting.

Three Card Poker vs. Traditional Poker


Three Card Poker differs from traditional poker in several key ways:

1. Speed: The game is much faster; players only compete against the dealer and play with three cards.
2. Hand Rankings: Hand rankings are adjusted to suit the smaller number of cards, making straights more valuable than flushes.
3. Dealer Qualification: In Three Card Poker, the dealer must qualify with Queen-high or better.
4. Side Bets: Pair Plus and bonus payouts add a layer of excitement not typically found in traditional poker.

These differences make Three Card Poker a simpler and quicker alternative while retaining the thrill of poker.
 
Man looking at 3 cards at a Poker table
 

Three Card Poker for Beginners

Three Card Poker is an ideal game for beginners due to its straightforward rules and fast-paced nature. Here are some tips to help new players get started:

1. Learn Hand Rankings: Familiarize yourself with the unique hand rankings in Three Card Poker to make informed betting decisions.
2. Start with Small Bets: Begin with modest wagers on Ante or Pair Plus until you're comfortable with the gameplay.
3. Experiment with Side Bets: Try the Pair Plus bet for added excitement, but avoid relying on it as your primary wager.

By combining luck, strategy, and potential for big payouts, Three Card Poker is an excellent starting point for anyone exploring casino table games.
 

Fun Facts About Three Card Poker

  • Invented by a Professional Poker Player: Derek Webb designed Three Card Poker in 1994 to blend poker strategy with fast-paced casino action. It quickly became one of the most popular casino games worldwide.
  • Two Games in One: The Pair Plus and Ante bets function as two separate games, allowing players to win on one even if they lose on the other.
  • Fast Gameplay: With only three cards per hand and no competing players, Three Card Poker is one of the quickest casino table games.
 

FAQs About Three Card Poker

 

Is Three Card Poker a Game of Skill or Luck?


Three Card Poker is primarily a game of luck, as players have no control over the cards dealt. However, knowing optimal strategies — such as when to fold or place the Play bet — can improve your odds.
 

How Do Three Card Poker Payouts Work?


Payouts depend on the type of bet and the strength of your hand:
  • Ante Bet: Pays 1:1 if the player's hand beats the dealer's qualifying hand.
  • Pair Plus Bet: Offers payouts based on hand strength, such as 40:1 for a straight flush.
  • Ante Bonus: Awards additional payouts for strong hands like straights and straight flushes, regardless of whether the dealer qualifies.
 

Are Hand Rankings Different From Traditional Poker?


Yes, hand rankings in Three Card Poker are slightly different. For instance, straights outrank flushes due to the smaller number of cards, making straights statistically rarer.
 

What Does It Mean for the Dealer to "Qualify"?


For the dealer to "qualify," their hand must be at least Queen-high. Ante bets pay even money if the dealer does not qualify, and Play bets are returned. This rule adds a unique element to the game, influencing strategy and outcomes.
 

Play Three Card Poker at Cache Creek Casino Resort

Cache Creek Casino Resort in Brooks, CA, offers an exceptional gaming experience for Three Card Poker enthusiasts. With professional dealers, a luxurious setting, and opportunities for big payouts, it's the perfect place to enjoy this fast-paced and thrilling game. Plan your visit today and discover the excitement of Three Card Poker at Cache Creek Casino Resort!