Rules of Caribbean Stud Poker

Caribbean Stud Poker isn't as widely played or known as the other variants, but it's actually one of the most challenging and stimulating games out there. The rules are simple enough, but winning consistently requires skill.

The biggest difference in Caribbean Stud Poker rules, as compared with other games, is that players will compete against a dealer. While there are some variations, the following regulations apply to most games played in casinos in the US.

First, all the players, as in traditional Stud, contribute to the initial pot, or the ante. All the participants, including the dealer, get five cards, face down. According to the rules of Caribbean Stud Poker, the dealer turns up one of her cards, after which the players will get the chance to examine their own cards.

Players have two options: they fold (giving up their ante), or they proceed to play and wager double what they contributed to the ante. The dealer turns up all her cards next. A comparison of hands is then made by the dealer, and the highest value wins. It should also be pointed out that in most cases, the dealer can only play A/K or better. If there is no Ace/King the players will just receive even money on the ante. If the dealer has the best hand, she wins both ante and wagers.

Other Caribbean Stud Poker rules state that any card that is accidentally flashed will result in a dead hand and a reshuffle; all decisions and disputes will be settled by the supervisor only, and once the player has made a wager, he or she cannot touch the cards again.

Payouts vary somewhat, but in general, if you beat the dealer, you get paid 1 to 1. For a two pair the payout is 2:1, a set, 3:1, a straight 4:1, flush, 5;1 and full hosue 7:1. Quads, the straight flush and royal flush pay out in 20:1, 50:1 and 100:1 respectively.

In the UK, Caribbean Stud Poker is known as Casino Five Card Stud Poker, and the rules are virtually identical, although there is some slight variation in the payout of some casinos.

Caribbean Stud Poker, historically, has been played mostly in European countries. However, the widespread use and availability of the Internet has made it accessible to people who do not even go to casinos. Today, thanks to the Web, a growing number of players from all over the world are starting to come around and get into this intriguing game.