Invented in the 1980s specifically to attract poker players to the main casino floor, Caribbean Stud is a fantastic, fast-paced table game.

The game moves incredibly quickly, relying purely on standard poker hand rankings and a few simple, rigid strategic decisions.

How to Start a Game of Caribbean Stud

Once all Antes are firmly placed on the table, the dealer distributes exactly five cards face down to every participating player.

They must either "Fold" and immediately lose their Ante, or "Call" (also known as "Play") by placing a bet exactly twice the size of their Ante.

• The dealer always exposes exactly one of their five cards face up
• Folding immediately surrenders the Ante bet to the house
• Calling requires placing a bet exactly double the size of the Ante

The Dealer Qualification Rule

To mathematically qualify, the dealer's five-card hand must contain an Ace and a King, or any higher standard poker combination (like a Pair).

If the dealer fails to qualify (e.g., they only have Queen-high), the player instantly wins even money (1:1) on their Ante bet.

The Massive Jackpot Side Bet

Because there is only one decision to make, the optimal mathematical strategy for Caribbean Stud is surprisingly rigid and easy to memorize.

Aside from the main game, Caribbean Stud is famous for its optional $1 progressive jackpot side bet.

Just be prepared for the agonizing frustration of holding a Full House right as the dealer turns over a miserable, non-qualifying Jack-high hand.