Easily the most recognized and the most widely played form of Poker, Texas Holdem has eclipsed the popularity of many earlier versions of the game. In the 20th century, the game began to enjoy huge popularity that was contributed in part because of its presence in television shows and in pop culture of the time. Tournaments like the World Series of Poker are based on this version of poker, and have contributed greatly to the interest in this game.

The popularity of Texas Holdem can be traced to how easy it is to play. The basic rules are very simple, but the strategies for winning can be complex. Players are known to devote their lives to defining and honing their winning strategies.

How to Play Texas Holdem

In Texas Holdem, there are only two player cards and five community cards. Any card can be a winning hand - it is this that gives this version of poker such a communal feel. Winning can take place with any card and can happen even late into the game. This is the reason beginners are so attracted to poker.

Up to 10 players can play at a time. There is another virtual dealer who does not actually participate in the game, but deals the cards.

The two players to the left of the dealer (represented by a dealer button) will post "blinds". What this means is that they place a bet before receiving the card. The dealer button will move to the left after every game round to ensure that every one gets a chance to post a blind. This also ensures that every hand will win some money. The player to the immediate left of the dealer button posts a small blind, which is equal to half of the minimum wager, while the player to his left post a small blind.

Next, the cards are dealt, with two cards face down known as pocket cards. The player to the left of the big blind begins the process of betting and this continues in a clockwise direction until all players have had a chance to call, fold or raise. Three more cards are placed face up, and these can be used by any of the players to make up their hand. The second round of betting begins, and after this round, a fourth card another community card is placed face up on the table.

A third round of betting follows where another community card is offered, and then the fourth and final round of betting is completed.

After all rounds, the hands are compared, and the person with the best five cards wins.

Although it's a simple enough game for amateurs, Texas Holdem is hardly a cakewalk to win. It can become very easy for more experienced players to lead novices into losing their hand.