Since poker has such a long history there is no surprise that there are several versions of the game around. Between games the rules of vary slightly, nevertheless, the aim and structure of winning are identical.

The overall aim of poker is to win the pot of cash in the center of the table. this is the money from the players. The pot begins to fill up before the cards have even been dealt. This is because every player has to pay an ante just to be considered for the game.

A player who wants to maintain his position in the game has to place bets either matching or exceeding the previous players bet. if a player believes he will not win, he has the option to fold, thus forfeiting any money he has already placed in the pot.

The dealer begins the game by dealing out the cards. Each player receives five. Although, this can depend on the version of poker being played. The cards are dealt out clockwise. The game proceeds in a clockwise direction. The first player has the option of betting or passing. Should he pass, the option then goes on to the next player and so on until a player places a bet. once the first bet has been made, the players following have to either match this bet or raise it. Once the bet has been raised, the next players too have to match this new amount or raise, or fold.

The game continues until one player remains, or the round of betting has finished. Once this occurs players have to show their hands. This determines the winner. If only two players remain, they are permitted to continue raising the pot until one decides to fold. The winner then takes the cash.

The following is the winning hierarchy – from the most powerful combination to the weakest: Royal Flush, Straight Flush, Four of a Kind, Full House, Flush, Straight, Three of a Kind, Two Pair, Pair, High Card