While traditional Hold’em is played against other players, casinos have invented a version where you play directly against the house.

This specific variation, often called Ultimate Texas Hold’em or Casino Hold’em, has exploded in popularity on the gaming floor.

How a Hand of Casino Hold’em is Played

The game begins with you placing an initial ‘Ante’ bet, and usually a mandatory ‘Blind’ bet of equal value.

If you choose to play, the dealer will reveal the community cards and compare their best five-card hand to yours.

• Unlike traditional poker, you cannot bluff the dealer; the best mathematical hand always wins the pot
• The community cards consist of the Flop (three cards), the Turn (one card), and the River (one card)
• Many tables offer a ‘Trips’ side bet that pays out if your final hand is Three of a Kind or better, regardless of the dealer

How to Optimize Your Casino Hold’em Strategy

Statistically, you should be placing the ‘Play’ bet on roughly 82% of all the starting hands you receive.

If you have any pair, any Ace or King, or any two cards that are suited or connected, you must always make the Play bet.

By aggressively playing decent hands, you put maximum pressure on the dealer’s qualification rules.