Teen Patti, also known as Indian Poker, is a popular card game originating from the Indian subcontinent. This exciting game is usually played with three to six players and uses a standard 52-card deck, without jokers. It’s a game of skill, strategy, and a little bit of luck. If you're a beginner or want to refresh your knowledge, you must know the basic rules of Teen Patti before playing.

1. Objective of the Game

The main objective of Teen Patti Game is to have the best three-card hand compared to other players and to maximize the pot before the showdown. Players can either bet or fold as the game progresses, depending on the strength of their hands and their confidence in winning the pot.

2. Card Rankings in Teen Patti

Before diving into the gameplay, it's important to understand the hand rankings in Teen Patti, from the highest to the lowest:

1. Trail (Three of a Kind): Three cards of the same rank, such as three aces or three kings.

2. Pure Sequence (Straight Flush): Three consecutive cards of the same suit, like 5-6-7 of hearts.

3. Sequence (Straight): Three consecutive cards, but not of the same suit, such as 2-3-4 of different suits.

4. Color (Flush): Three cards of the same suit, not in sequence.

5. Pair (Two of a Kind): Two cards of the same rank, such as two queens.

6. High Card: If no one has any of the above combinations, the player with the highest card wins.

3. Gameplay and Betting

• Ante and Boot: The game begins with each player placing a minimum bet, called the ‘boot’ amount, into the pot. This initial amount is agreed upon by all players before the game starts.

• Dealing the Cards: Each player is dealt three cards face down. Players can choose to look at their cards or play blind.

• Blind and Seen Players: A 'blind player' hasn't seen their cards. A 'seen player' has. Blind players must bet half of the previous player's bet. Seen players must match or double that bet.

4. Turns and Actions

Players take turns to bet. During their turn, they can choose to:

1. Bet (Chaal): Continue in the game by placing a bet into the pot.

2. Fold (Pack): Withdraw from the game, forfeiting any amount already bet.

3. Show (Side Show): If a player is unsure about their cards, they can request a side show to compare cards with the previous player. This can only be done by seen players, and only if the previous player is also seen. If the previous player has a weaker hand, they must fold.

5. Showdown and Winning

The game continues until all but one player folds or the pot is called. If only two players remain, a showdown occurs, and the player with the highest-ranking hand wins the pot. If a player calls for a showdown, all remaining players must reveal their cards, and the player with the highest-ranking hand wins the pot.

6. Variations

There are numerous variations of Teen Patti, such as 'Joker,' 'Muflis,' 'AK47,' and more. These variants add wild cards and new winning criteria. They make the game more complex and exciting.

Conclusion

Teen Patti is an enjoyable and fast-paced card game that combines strategy, luck, and skill. Understanding these basic rules will help you get started on your Teen Patti journey, whether you’re playing casually with friends or engaging in more competitive settings. Remember, the key to mastering Teen Patti lies in knowing when to bet, when to fold, and how to read your opponents effectively. Happy playing!