Poker is a card game played by two or more players and characterized by betting rounds. There is plenty of luck in the game, but it also requires a high degree of skill and psychology. The game originated in the United States and has become a hugely popular pastime worldwide.
The rules for poker vary from game to game, but most of the basic principles are the same. There are a number of poker variants and many different types of betting. Players can bet any amount they want and may raise the stakes as the betting round progresses. The game is usually dealt face down, but a player can choose to reveal one or more cards.
Almost all poker games are played with chips rather than paper money. The denominations of the chips are color-coded: white, red, blue, green, black, and a variety of shades of purple (or pink). This makes it easy for security systems to monitor the action at a table. Chips are typically larger than paper money and are more durable.
It is customary for a group of poker players to make special rules, called house rules, to suit their own preferences and playing style. These rules should be written down to avoid confusion.
Some poker players like to establish a fund, known as the kitty, to pay for new decks of cards and food. Any chips left in the kitty when the game ends are divided evenly among all players who are still in the hand.