Generally, each player is given five cards. However, some games use multiple packs. In Texas Hold’em, players are usually given two decks, with the back colours different.

The best hand is a straight flush, comprising five cards in the same suit. The Ace can be high or low. In a tie, the higher card is the winner.

There are numerous variations of poker. However, the main objective of a game is to produce the best hand possible. Players evaluate their hand, and choose the best combinations from among the five cards they have been dealt.

In order to do so, players must make forced bets. These can range from the ante, to the big blind and small blind. These bets are made before cards are dealt. The player making the first bet is said to be the active player.

The dealer, or the nominal dealer, deals cards to each player. Cards are dealt clockwise around the table. These are then cut and shuffled.

Most poker games incorporate a blind. This is an obligatory bet, and is typically made by the player to the left of the dealer. These forced bets give the players something to chase. In Texas Hold’em, a player must post the big blind and small blind before being dealt cards.

In the showdown, a player shows off his best hand. The winner takes the pot, and everyone else folds. The player on the dealer’s left is free to collect the pot, but is required to leave at least five cards behind.