The gameplay of 7-Card Stud Poker is different compared to other popular poker variants like Texas Hold'em and Omaha. Here's a step-by-step breakdown of how the game is typically played
1. Ante: Before each hand begins, all players at the table must place an initial bet called the "ante." This makes up a small pot that players will be competing to win.
2. Starting Hand: Each player is dealt two private cards face-down (hole cards) and one face-up card.
3. First Betting Round: The player with the lowest face-up card starts the betting round with a forced bet known as the "bring-in." This bet is usually half of the small bet. Betting then continues clockwise around the table, allowing players to fold, call (match the previous bet), raise (increase the bet), or complete (increase the bet to the full small bet).
4. Fourth Street: After the first betting round, each player still in the hand is dealt a fourth card face-up. This is called "Fourth Street." The player with the highest-ranked face-up cards initiates the betting round.
5. Second Betting Round: Another betting round ensues, following the same rules as the first round.
6. Fifth Street: Players receive a fifth card face-up, - "Fifth Street." Once again, the player with the highest-ranked face-up cards begins the betting.
7. Third Betting Round: A third betting round takes place.Just like the above two.
8. Sixth Street: Players receive a sixth card face-up, called "Sixth Street." The betting round is initiated by the player with the highest-ranking face-up cards.
9. Fourth Betting Round: Another betting round occurs.
10. Seventh Street (River): Players are dealt a seventh card face-down, referred to as "Seventh Street" or "the river." This card is private and visible only to the player holding it. The player with the highest-ranking face-up cards starts the final betting round. This woud initiate the final pot.
11. Final Betting Round: The final betting round takes place, giving players one last opportunity to place bets, raises, calls, or folds.
12. Showdown: If two or more players remain after the final betting round, a showdown occurs. Players reveal their hole cards, and the best five-card poker hand wins the pot. The hand rankings follow standard poker rules.
13. Winning: The player with the best five-card hand wins the pot. If there's a tie, the pot is divided equally among the tied players.
Card Stud Poker requires a mix of strategy, reading opponents, and adapting to changing hands. With each additional card dealt and each betting round, players have more information to make informed decisions. The game's unique blend of hidden and revealed cards adds a layer of complexity that makes it both challenging and engaging for players of all levels.