Seven Card Stud Poker is a popular variant of the classic card game poker, played with a standard deck of 52 cards. It is a format that requires players to utilize strategy, skill, and luck to win. The objective of the game is to create the highest-ranking hand using a combination of the seven cards dealt to each player.
The game begins with each player placing an ante, a small initial bet, into the pot. The dealer then proceeds to deal two hole cards face down, followed by one card face up to every player. This face-up card is also called the "door card" or "third street." The player with the lowest-ranking door card has to make a mandatory "bring-in" bet.
The betting then proceeds clockwise, with each player having the option to call, raise, or fold. This is followed by the dealer dealing another face-up card to each player, known as "fourth street" or "the turn." Another betting round ensues, and then the dealer deals another face-up card to each player called "fifth street" or "the river."
After a third betting round, another face-up card known as "sixth street" or "the turn" is dealt, and the final betting round takes place. Finally, the dealer gives all remaining players a seventh and final card face down, known as "seventh street" or "the river."
Players then form their best possible five-card hand using any combination of their seven cards. The player with the highest-ranking hand wins the pot. In the event of a tie, the pot is split equally among the tying players.
Seven Card Stud Poker demands a mix of careful observation, strategic betting, and strong card evaluation skills, making it a challenging and engaging game for players of all skill levels.
