Ante Bet Mechanics
The Ante bet is your main wager against the dealer. After seeing your cards, you must decide whether to continue playing or fold.
If You Play
- • Place a "Play" bet equal to your ante
- • Total investment: 2x ante amount
- • Your hand competes against dealer
- • Can win both ante and play bets
If You Fold
- • Forfeit your ante bet immediately
- • No additional play bet required
- • Hand is over, move to next round
- • Conservative option for weak hands
Ante Bonus Payouts
Even if you just win the ante bet, premium hands earn automatic bonus payouts:
| Hand | Ante Bonus | Example ($10 ante) |
|---|---|---|
| Straight Flush | 5:1 | +$50 bonus |
| Three of a Kind | 4:1 | +$40 bonus |
| Straight | 1:1 | +$10 bonus |
| Flush or lower | None | No bonus |
Important: Ante bonuses are paid regardless of whether the dealer qualifies or whether you win the hand!
Winning Scenarios
Scenario 1: Dealer Doesn't Qualify
Dealer has Jack high or worse (doesn't qualify with Queen+)
- • Ante bet wins (1:1 payout)
- • Play bet pushes (returned)
- • Ante bonus paid if applicable
Scenario 2: You Win vs Qualified Dealer
Your hand beats dealer's qualifying hand
- • Ante bet wins (1:1 payout)
- • Play bet wins (1:1 payout)
- • Ante bonus paid if applicable
Scenario 3: You Lose vs Qualified Dealer
Dealer's qualifying hand beats yours
- • Ante bet loses
- • Play bet loses
- • Ante bonus still paid if applicable