Poker is a gambling game in which players try to form the best hand. The outcome is influenced by chance and player psychology. Typically, poker games involve five cards, though two or more may be used.

Players can choose to play the game in a cash format or in a tournament. A “buy-in” is the amount that is required to participate in the game. Tournaments have a fixed buy-in. In a cash format, the buy-in can vary.

Poker chips are usually made of ceramic or plastic. They can be traded for cash or used to place bets. To make bets, players can bluff or show their cards.

When there is more than one player left in the game, the players may compete for the main pot. Typically, the last man standing is the winner. But other players may also win side pots.

Poker differs from other games by using a wild card. Jokers are sometimes used as a wild card. For example, a pair of aces beats a straight flush.

There are several types of forced bets. A forced bet is a bet that must be made by a player. These bets are blind bets, ante bets, or a combination of both.

A turn is the third betting round in poker. The next player to the left of the dealer takes the turn.

The first bettor is the player who must make the first bet. If the first bettor checks, he stays in the game. He can check again in later betting intervals.