FOUR CARD POKER: Beginner’s Guide to Playing and Winning

What Is Four Card Poker?

Four Card Poker is a fast-paced casino table game that blends traditional poker hand rankings with unique four-card hands. Players compete directly against the dealer, aiming to make a stronger four-card poker hand. The game uses a standard 52-card deck and offers multiple betting options, including an optional side bet.

Four Card Poker is beginner-friendly because of its simple rules, quick rounds, and exciting payouts. The added strategy of four-card hands makes it appealing to both new and experienced casino players.

How to Play Four Card Poker

Step-by-Step Guide to Playing Four Card Poker

1. Place Your Bets – Start by placing an Ante bet. Optional Aces Up and Bonus side bets may also be available.
2. Deal the Cards – You receive five cards, and the dealer also receives five cards.
3. Create Your Hand – Choose the best four-card poker hand from your five cards.
4. Call or Fold – Decide whether to place a Play bet equal to your Ante or fold and lose your Ante.
5. Dealer Qualification and Showdown – The dealer must qualify (usually with a pair of Queens or better). If the dealer qualifies, hands are compared and payouts are made.

Core Game Elements / Hand Rankings

• Four of a Kind: Four cards of the same rank, the strongest hand.
• Straight Flush: Four consecutive cards of the same suit.
• Three of a Kind: Three cards of the same rank.
• Flush: Four cards of the same suit.
• Straight: Four consecutive cards of mixed suits.
• Two Pair: Two separate pairs.
• One Pair: A single pair.
• High Card: The highest-ranking card when no other hand is formed.

Beginner Tips and Four Card Poker Strategy

1. Understand Four-Card Rankings – Hand rankings differ from traditional five-card poker, so learning which four-card hands are strongest is essential. This knowledge helps you make better play decisions.
2. Know When to Play or Fold – If your hand is weak, folding can save money over time. Playing only strong hands increases your chances of beating the dealer.
3. Watch Dealer Qualification – The dealer must meet a minimum hand requirement to qualify. When the dealer doesn’t qualify, your Ante bet may still win, improving your overall results.
4. Manage Your Bankroll – Set a budget and stick to it. The fast pace of Four Card Poker can lead to quick betting, so careful bankroll control keeps play enjoyable.
5. Use Side Bets Carefully – Side bets offer large payouts but have higher house edges. Treat them as optional entertainment rather than a main strategy.
6. Practice Hand Selection – Take time to evaluate all possible four-card combinations from your five cards. Practicing this skill improves your confidence and decision-making.
7. Play for Fun – Enjoy the speed and excitement of the game. Staying relaxed and focused leads to better decisions and a more enjoyable experience.

Why Players Love Four Card Poker

Four Card Poker is loved for its quick gameplay, simple rules, and unique four-card hand structure. The game offers frequent action and multiple ways to win, making it exciting and beginner-friendly.