This is an interesting take onthe game of poker. Instead of trying to make the best possible five card hand, as the name of the game implies, players only use three cards. The game is played against the dealer's hand, so although there is a payout schedule, you'll need to beat the dealer to win.

Microgaming describes their Three Card Poker as two games in one. By that they mean players can wager on two different things each hand. The first wager is placed in the Ante circle on the table. Cards are dealt. Now, players are given the chance to either fold, or "raise the bet" by placing an additional bet in the play circle.

In order to win on a bet made in the Play circle, players must both beat the dealer, and the dealer must have a qualifying hand. At All Jackpots, where I'm playing, a qualifying hand means a Queen high or better.

If you decide to raise by placing a bet in the Play circle, one of several things will happen.

• The Player will win, but the Dealer does not qualify. The Ante bet is paid off, and the "Play" bet is a push
• The Player wins, and the Dealer does qualify. Both bets are paid off.
• The Player and the Dealer tie. The hand is a push. Bets are returned and the next hand is dealt.
• The Dealer beats the player. Bets are collected.

The optimal strategy for raising or folding, according to the Wizard of Odds is to raise when you hold Q/6/4 or better. That being one card that's at least a Queen, one card that's at least a 6, and one that is at least a 3. Visit his site for an in-depth analysis.

That's game number one. The second type of wager you can place is a pair Plus bet. You place a second wager that will be paid out according to a paytable, no matter what the dealer holds.

Pair Plus Payout Table
Straight Flush 40:1
Three of a Kind 30:1
Straight 6:1
Flush 4:1
Pair 1:1

I've found it being offered at All Jackpots Casino, where I was given a $225 bonus for a $50 deposit.