Official poker involves two card hands dealt to each player, followed by a round of betting. In the end, a winner is determined by showing all of one’s hole cards in a showdown. The winning hand is the highest-ranking hand, as described in the official poker rules.

A player must act when it is his or her turn to do so unless otherwise instructed by the dealer. Players may not discuss strategy with other players, advisors or spectators while a hand is in play, nor expose their cards to them in any manner. Exposing a hand while action is pending is considered a penalty (Rule 66).

The table must have sufficient poker chips to seat all active players. Generally, white chips are worth one unit or the minimum ante or bet; red chips are worth five units; and blue chips are worth ten or twenty-five units. The monetary value of each chip is clearly displayed in the game room.

Blinds and antes are raised at regular intervals, as designated by management. A player must pay in an amount equal to or greater than the current blind to participate in a hand. New players are seated at available seats, but must buy in before being dealt.

When a player folds, his or her cards are pushed forward face down and should not be exposed or tossed high (“helicoptered”). Players may not move their chips from the table, except to deposit them in the pot. Stacks of non-tournament chips must not be visible to other players, and higher denomination chips must be readily visible to all players. Frequent or continuous absences from a tournament may result in a player’s forfeiture of his or her chips and disqualification.