Poker is a card game played between two or more players and involves betting. While the outcome of a hand largely depends on chance, it can also be influenced by the strategic decisions made by players, such as raising or folding, or by bluffing. There are many different variants of poker, some involving more cards than others. Some involve additional rules, such as wild cards or the ability to split pairs.

Regardless of the variant of poker, one or more players are required to place an initial amount of money into the pot before cards are dealt. This is called an ante or blind bet. The dealer then shuffles and deals the cards to the players, starting with the player on their left. Depending on the game, the dealer may offer the shuffled pack to the player on their right for a cut, but this is not always necessary.

After each player receives their two hole cards, there is a round of betting that begins with the player on their left. A player with a strong hand can raise or fold their cards, forcing other players to call or concede. A good player can win by bluffing, as well.

The highest hand wins the pot. The most common poker hands are: Royal flush: Ace, King, Queen, Jack of the same suit. Straight: 5 consecutive cards of the same rank. Three of a kind: 3 matching cards of the same rank. Two pair: 2 distinct cards of the same rank, plus another unmatched card. High card: Breaks ties.