While traditional Hold'em is played against other players, casinos have invented a version where you play directly against the house.

This specific variation, often called Ultimate Texas Hold'em or Casino Hold'em, has exploded in popularity on the gaming floor.

Understanding the Rules and Betting Rounds

The game begins with you placing an initial 'Ante' bet, and usually a mandatory 'Blind' bet of equal value.

If you like your starting hand, you place a 'Play' bet, which is usually exactly double the size of your original Ante.

• You are strictly playing your hand against the dealer's hand; the other players at the table do not matter
• Knowing when to aggressively raise pre-flop is the key to minimizing the house edge in this variation
• The game uses a standard 52-card deck which is thoroughly shuffled after every single hand

When to Fold and When to Play

Because the dealer plays blindly and must qualify, you should mathematically play the vast majority of hands you are dealt.

If you have any pair, any Ace or King, or any two cards that are suited or connected, you must always make the Play bet.

By aggressively playing decent hands, you put maximum pressure on the dealer's qualification rules.