Poker is a card game of chance and risk. Players put money or chips into a pot before being dealt cards that they keep hidden from the other players. They may then bet, check, call, raise, or fold depending on the strategy of the game. Subsequent betting rounds often feature the addition, or exchange, of cards in players’ hands, which can change a hand’s value and influence bluffing strategies.

There are many different games of poker, but most have the same basic rules. Players begin by putting in mandatory bets called blinds or antes before being dealt cards. Each player has a set number of chips, typically white or other light-colored chips, that are worth the same amount (five whites, for example).

After all players have received their two hole cards, another round of betting begins. This is initiated by the two players to the left of the dealer, who have placed bets into the pot. Three additional community cards are then dealt face up on the table, known as the flop. A final card is then dealt, known as the river.

During the betting rounds, players try to form the best possible five-card hand. The highest ranked hand wins the pot or all bets made during that round. If no one has a winning hand, the remaining players drop out of the game. Players can also “check” to pass on betting during their turn, allowing other players to act first.