Three-Card Poker is an exciting and fast-paced casino table game where you play directly against the dealer, rather than other players at the table. The game uses a standard 52-card deck, and the objective is simple: create the best three-card poker hand you can.

Unlike traditional poker games that involve lengthy rounds and strategic bluffing, Three-Card Poker is known for its simplicity and quick gameplay. After placing your initial bet, both you and the dealer are dealt three cards. From there, it’s all about comparing hands to see whose is stronger, based on poker rankings like straights, flushes, and three-of-a-kinds.

One of the reasons for its popularity is its versatility. Players can make additional side bets, such as the "Pair Plus" bet, where payouts are based on the quality of your hand, regardless of the dealer's cards. These side bets add an extra layer of excitement and the potential for big payouts.

The game's straightforward rules make it easy for beginners to pick up, while the fast action and exciting payouts keep seasoned players coming back for more. With its combination of simplicity, strategy, and luck, Three-Card Poker has become a staple in casinos worldwide, attracting players of all skill levels.

Understanding the rankings of hands in Three-Card Poker is crucial. Here’s how the hands are ranked, from highest to lowest:

1. Straight Flush – Three cards in sequence, all of the same suit (e.g., 6♦, 7♦, 8♦).
2. Three-of-a-Kind – Three cards of the same rank (e.g., Q♠, Q♣, Q♦).
3. Straight – Three cards in sequence, regardless of suit.
4. Flush – Three cards of the same suit, not in sequence.
5. Pair – Two cards of the same rank.
6. High Card – If none of the above apply, the highest single card takes precedence.

Notable Difference: Unlike traditional poker, in Three-Card Poker, a straight ranks higher than a flush due to the differing odds of achieving these hands with just three cards.

Step 1: Place Your Ante Bet

Before any cards are dealt, players must place an ante bet—this is your stake for the round.

At this stage, you may also decide to make optional side bets, such as the Pair Plus or Six Card Bonus, which offer additional ways to win (more on these later).

Step 2: Receive Your Cards

The dealer will deal three face-down cards to each player and to themselves.

Step 3: Decide Whether to Play or Fold

After viewing your cards, you have two options:

• Play – Place a second bet (equal to the ante) in the “Play” area to compete against the dealer’s hand.
• Fold – Forfeit your ante bet and exit the round.

Step 4: Compare Hands

If you’ve decided to play, the dealer will reveal their hand. For the dealer to “qualify,” their hand must contain at least a Queen or higher.

The outcome depends on the following:

• If the dealer does not qualify, you’ll automatically win even money (1-to-1) on your ante bet, and your play bet will be a push (returned to you).
• If the dealer qualifies and your hand outranks theirs, you win even money on both the ante and play bets.
• If the dealer’s hand is better, you lose both bets.
• If your hand and the dealer’s hand are tied, both bets are pushed back to you.

Step 5: Bonus Payouts

Even if you lose to the dealer, you may still qualify for bonus payouts on your ante bet based on your hand ranking:

• Straight Flush – Paid 5-to-1
• Three-of-a-Kind – Paid 4-to-1
• Straight – Paid 1-to-1

Payout structures can vary slightly by casino; check the pay table at Rain Rock Casino for exact details.

Three-Card Poker offers two exciting side bets that can increase your chances of walking away a winner:

Pair Plus

This bet rewards you based on the strength of your hand, regardless of how it compares to the dealer’s hand.

Payouts often include:

• Pair – 1-to-1
• Flush – 4-to-1
• Straight – 6-to-1
• Three-of-a-Kind – 30-to-1
• Straight Flush – 40-to-1

Six Card Bonus

This optional bet uses all six cards (your three and the dealer’s three) to create the best traditional five-card poker hand. Payouts can be substantial, with hands like a Royal Flush paying as much as 1,000-to-1 at some tables.

Three-Card Poker is a fast-paced and exciting casino game, but knowing when to fold or play is key to maximizing your chances of success. A proven strategy simplifies this decision: you should only play hands of Queen-6-4 or better.

Here's why this strategy works: in Three-Card Poker, the dealer needs at least a Queen-high hand to qualify. By holding a Queen-6-4 or better, you increase your odds of beating the dealer's hand if they qualify. If your hand falls below this threshold, it’s statistically better to fold and avoid losing additional play bets, as weaker hands are less likely to win against the dealer.

For example, if your hand is Queen-7-3, you should play because it beats the Queen-6-4 minimum required threshold. However, if your hand is Jack-10-8, folding is the smarter move since your chances of beating a qualifying dealer hand are low.

This strategy helps you manage risk and conserve your chips, ensuring you stay in the game longer while giving you the best opportunity to walk away a winner.

At Rain Rock Casino in Yreka, CA, we offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere and knowledgeable dealers ready to guide you through your games. Here’s what makes us stand out:

• Exciting Game Play – Experience the thrill of Three-Card Poker in our state-of-the-art gaming area.
• Premier Casino Amenities – Enjoy luxurious dining options, modern hotel accommodations, and friendly, professional staff.
• Exclusive Benefits – Sign up for our membership program to enjoy exclusive deals, promotions, and event invites.

At Rain Rock Casino, we encourage all our patrons to gamble responsibly. If you or someone you know needs support, contact the National Council on Problem Gambling at 1-800-GAMBLER.

Now that you’ve learned the ins and outs of how to play Three-Card Poker, it’s time to put your skills to the test. Whether you’re new to poker or a seasoned pro, Three-Card Poker at Rain Rock Casino offers the perfect mix of strategy, luck, and fast-paced excitement.

Discover the thrill of gaming and much more—plan your visit to Rain Rock Casino in Yreka, CA, today!

Get Directions or call us at 1-530-777-RAIN to learn more.