Five Card Draw is the most familiar with amateur poker players and is the game of poker most played around a table in homes all over the world. While all poker games begin with the declaration of a monetary bet, some are played “blind” and some are played “seen”. As their names suggest, the cards can be played without being seen or, players can wager based upon what they see in their hands. The rules of poker are varied as are the games themselves, but the call, the raise, the fold and the check are found in all poker games, whether low or high. A low allows the player to have the worst possible hand and still have a chance of winning while a high speaks for itself. The “all in” rule allows all to play although certain players may not have any chips to bet.
Another type of high/low card game is Teen Pathi. This name means literally three cards. Originating with the Indians, this gambling game uses a regular 52 card deck and can be played with four to seven players. As with poker, a stake must be made and a minimum wager placed. There is a certain ranking to each hand in this game and can also be played blind or seen. A trio, straight run, normal run, color, pair or high card all define that ranking and must be played accordingly. There are variations to this game as well. Some high limits can be made, allowing the bet to be increased and there are also those players who prefer to set limits on how many times the bet can be increased. As with other vying games, the internet is catering to those who wish to play Teen Pathi in a virtual world. By logging on, players can earn real money be being the winner who “takes all”!
Poker is a dangerous game, in any form. If the player is on a “streak”, that means that he or she is winning more than they are loosing. This, of all the games created, is the draw that ruins marriages, steals homes and jobs and leaves a man desolate and alone. Gambling is at epidemic proportions in our society and for many, this is an addiction. Players will sell all they have just to be able to play. Why? Because the next big hand could be the difference…it could be worth a lot of money! The “pay to play again” syndrome is one that spreads itself from small time lottery tickets to the big time; sporting events, racing, and betting on anything and everything!
Why are these vying games so popular? It’s the thrill of “the next big win” that drives people to leave everything they have for the chance to win everything they’ve ever wanted. This is why gambling is so dangerous. Without the proper restraint, this addiction can have as many devastating effects as any drug addiction. But, in moderation, poker is a fun way to spend time with friends. With your ability to “bluff” being something that must be capitalized in a poker game in order to continue raising the “stakes” , do you have the face for poker?