Poker is a family of card games that is played around the world. The objective of the game is to make the best possible hand. In poker, each player’s hand is made up of five cards. During a game, players evaluate their hands and then wager. They can check, raise, or fold.

Poker is played with cards dealt face up. After a round of betting, a new round of dealing occurs. Depending on the variation, players may use up to four cards from their hand or shuffle the deck.

A pot is created by all the bets from the players in a single deal. The highest hand is the winner. It is possible for two players to tie for the best hand. Ties are broken by the unmatched fifth card.

If more than one player remains after the final round of betting, a showdown is held. When this happens, the hands are revealed. Each player can use their cards to make the best hand.

Poker games vary in the number of cards used, the number of players, and the type of deck. Most modern games involve multiple rounds of betting.

In most poker games, players make forced bets. These can be ante bets or blind bets. Players can also bet by matching the previous bet. However, they cannot bet more than their ante or the limit.

Poker is typically played with a 52 card English deck. Two to seven players can play the game.