How to Play Caribbean Stud Poker
To begin, you must place an ante bet to be dealt into the game. You also have the option to place a side bet (usually $1) on the progressive jackpot for a chance to win more money if you're dealt a flush or higher. After the ante and optional side bet are placed, you and the dealer are each dealt five cards. The dealer's first card is turned face up, while the rest remain face down. Players can now look at all five of their cards.
Based on your hand and the dealer's face-up card, you'll need to decide whether to continue playing. If you choose to stay in the game, you must place a raise bet that is exactly double your ante. If you fold, you forfeit your ante and any progressive jackpot bet. Once the decision is made, the player's hand ends if they fold.
If you continue, the dealer reveals their remaining cards. The dealer's hand must qualify with a minimum of Ace-King high for your raise to result in a win or loss. If the dealer's hand does not qualify, the ante is paid out at 1:1, and raises are pushed. To win any progressive payouts, the dealer's hand must qualify, though your progressive bet may still pay out based on your hand strength.
If the dealer's hand qualifies, they call the amount of the player's raise and compare hands. If the dealer's hand ranks higher, you lose all your bets. If your hand ranks higher, your ante pays out at 1:1, and your raise pays according to the strength of your hand. Online casinos often offer higher top-end payouts, such as 200:1 or more for a Royal Flush.
Pros and Cons of Caribbean Stud Poker
As a reviewer, I find Caribbean Stud Poker offers an exciting mix of strategy and luck. The progressive jackpot adds an extra layer of thrill, especially for players chasing big wins. Online casinos often provide better payout tables, making them more appealing than land-based options.
On the downside, the house edge can be relatively high compared to other poker variants, and there’s limited room for strategic play due to the fixed betting structure. Additionally, qualifying rules for the dealer's hand can sometimes feel restrictive.