How to Play Caribbean Stud Poker
Poker has always been a favorite casino game; and with the rising popularity of gambling, poker has become even more popular especially with new poker versions like Caribbean Stud Poker.
Caribbean Stud Poker is a poker game with a little twist. This poker variation has been in existence for more than a decade now. Although Caribbean Stud is a poker version, there are several versions of Caribbean Stud in different casinos. Some versions of this game are offered in a progressive jackpot system which is even more attractive to players.
Playing Caribbean Stud Game
In Caribbean Stud Poker, players have to make an ante bet before the game starts. In some version of this poker game, the player must also make at least a dollar side bet for the progressive jackpot.
Once the player has placed his ante bet, the dealer will then deal him with cards which are all dealt face down except for one dealer card. Once the player has received and examined his card, he can then decide whether he'd raise his bet or fold. If the player feels that his hand is weak and he folds, he'd lose his ante bet including his jackpot side bet. On the other hand, if the player feels that he has a shot at winning and he decides to raise, he must put up an additional bet that is equal to the value of his ante bet.
After the player has made an additional bet, the dealer will then turn over four of his cards. In order for the dealer to qualify, his cards must at least include a King or an Ace. This is because in Caribbean Stud, the Ace, King and the cards 2, 3, and 4 are the lowest qualifying hand. On the other hand, the highest qualifying hand include the 9, 10, Jack, Queen and Ace.
So, if the dealer's hand does not meet at least the minimum hand requirement, the player wins the game and he'd win more money on his ante bet. He'd also benefit from his raise which would be pushed according to the casino's paytable schedule. Conversely, if the dealer's hand meets the minimum hand qualification, the player loses all his wagers.
What if the hands result to a tie? In this case, both the player ante bet and his raise will push. The payout for the progressive side bet will be based on the value of the winning hand.
What sets this game apart from the traditional poker game is the absence of community pot. In this poker version, the player's hand is matched against the dealer's hand.
Caribbean Stud Poker Strategy
If you want to have a shot at winning this game, there are strategies that can give you an edge when playing. For instance, when playing this game, you should remember to start off with small ante bets. Make sure you're comfortable with your wager. Look for a casino that would allow you to place the smallest ante bet.
After receiving your cards and you noticed that you have a pair of cards or a better hand, you should consider raising your bet. Otherwise, you should definitely consider folding. You should also consider raising your bet when you have A-K-J-8-3 or A-K-J-8-5 hands.
Caribbean Stud Poker Progressive Jackpot
Not all Caribbean Stud Poker games have progressive jackpot, but those that have requires a $1 side bet for a chance to win a jackpot when you get a Flush or a better hand. Nowadays, most casinos offer progressive jackpot for Caribbean Stud Poker. The payoff tables or schedules vary from one casino to another.