How to Play Indian Poker: A Guide for Beginners

Indian Poker, also known as "Blind Man's Bluff," is a card game played using a 52-card deck. This game is considerably different from traditional poker and much more innovative. But remember that the name "Indian" has nothing to do with the nation. If you are new to Indian poker and have no idea bout it, here is all about how to play poker, rules, and tips to become a professional poker player.

Compared to the poker games we are used to watching players play, this one is very different. The fact that the players must try to stick their cards to their foreheads makes this an entertaining game to play with friends or family. The card represents a feather or headgear when it is placed on the players' foreheads.

Two to eight people may play the game. As the betting progresses, the game necessitates a great deal of strategic thinking. Except for you, every other player in the group will see your card, so any strategy you employ while playing will depend entirely on your opponent's cards. Keep scrolling to learn how to play Indian Poker.

‍

Why is it called "Indian poker"?

In 2006, a card game germinated called "Poker." Whatever the name, poker, Indian poker, blind man's bluff, squaw poker, or whatever are the different terms used for the same desirable game. Suddenly, a question arises as to whether "poker" differs from "Indian Poker." The answer is clear- both terms are used for the same game with the same rules.

Moreover, the country has nothing to do with it. The name 'Indian poker' comes from the belief that the cards held to the players' heads by fair means bear a resemblance to a Native American headdress or a war bonnet. If you love different variants of Poker, check out how to play 3-Card Poker. 

‍

What is the Object of Playing this Game?

Before understanding, how to play Indian poker, let’s first understand the objective of this amazing game. To win this game, one must be more potent with their cards. A player can see his opponent's card but not what he is holding. This needs a lot of thought processes to decide on the bet and to move any further. 

The opponent's card might not look impressive, but that doesn't mean they have any less probability of winning. The strategy you use to win depends on your opponent's cards. 

‍

How to Play Indian Poker?

This game is played at a wide-ranging level in casinos. To play this game, you must be equal to or older than 18. At least four players are required to play the game.

Like other card games, 52 cards are used as a standard deck. Cards are ranked in order of preference as Ace, King, Queen, Jack, and numbers 10 to 2. Jokers aren't usually used. First of all, a player is appointed as a dealer. A mutual decision can decide this position as the dealer possesses no pros and cons.

Once the dealer is selected, they shuffle the deck of cards very well and start distributing cards to each player one by one. At the start of the game, an initial bet is placed by each player or ante. 

Each player keeps one card on their forehead, and the card is placed in a way that is visible to other players except for the player himself. Each player will then place the amount of bet or chips in the center of the table. 

‍

After all the setup is done, a player can start from the following:

Call

A call means betting the amount decided by each player. A subsequent or second call of any specific amount is sometimes called an 'overcall.' A player who calls for a raise before investing money in that round is known as "cold calling." A player's calling instead of raising a firm hand is known as "smooth calling.'

When the final round comes, and the player makes a call thinking that he is not a strong contender, then that call is known as a "crying call.' A call made when a player considers himself not so strong and thinks that the opponent is just bluffing is a 'hero call.' A call made before the final betting round is called a float.

‍

Raise

A player can raise the bet. Other players have to submit a chance of an equal amount. This is the rule to stay in the game. It increases the size of an existing bet. When a player makes a subsequent or second raise, it's called 're-raise.' When a raise is made after previously checking in, the same betting round is said to 'check-raise'.

‍

Fold

This requires probability skills and forecasting. If a player contemplates that he has fewer chances of winning or can't meet the bet, he can fold. He can take back or forfeit the amount of money or chips he invested before finishing off the game. 

This applies to each player individually. Hence, the game doesn't stop when a single player folds. When the last two players are left, after every player has called to "fold," the final remaining players can't fold. The remaining players shall rise, and the game shutdown gets off the ground.

On the shutdown, the remaining players shall show their cards. The card with the most elevated value wins and takes the pot full of money or chips. A card of the highest value is the card that carries the highest preference.

For example, Zen has a card numbered nine, while Ben has a card numbered 10. Here, Ben wins the game. If it's a tie, the two players have a card with the same value; the two players divide the winning amount of chips between themselves. 

‍

What are the Possible Variations?

The basic idea of the game remains the same. Every card game comes with the advantage of variation. Players can change specific rules according to their choices and needs. Like, jokers are not counted in a deck of 52 cards.

They are considered extra, but if the players want to add them to the game, they can do so. Moreover, they become the most potent cards if they add Jokers to the game. 

In addition, players can decide the best suit, i.e., which case will be given more power. They can determine the number of bets and the rules. Whatever the variations, the players always need to formulate a strategy to move forward toward winning the game. 

‍

Why did Online Poker become so Popular in India?

In the past few years, we have seen a massive change in the use of technology. Everything today is possible at your fingertips on your mobile phones. No one needs to step out of their comfort zone for entertainment, work, shopping, etc.

Online games have become so trendy that they have become the primary employment source for many people. The proliferation of the internet, particularly smartphone penetration, has played a vital role in boosting the gambling industry in India. As per studies, at least 80% of the population is likely to indulge in gaming once a year.

Poker has become even more widely played due to the advent of online poker sites. In the first half of 2019, there were almost five million new accounts for online poker sites opened by players in India. Various applications are available on the app store to play Indian Poker and win real cash.

These applications allow only adults (18+ years) to register and participate. They provide a disclaimer that the game can be addictive. As per surveys, around 46% of people in India gamble. Not every person who plays poker gambles. Some plays are just for fun.

It has become a source for the last time. The game has been gaining more and more popularity over the years. This is not just a simple online game and cannot be played carelessly as the person's bank details are involved. Any application takes no responsibility in the case of any fraud. 

There are strict rules by the government of India, and particular states are also free to impose their regulations and by-laws. It is up to the Central and State governments whether they want to let any specific game be played online or not. They have the full right to ban the game. 

Due to the rise of online poker during the pandemic in 2020, casinos are still struggling. Their number of customers has gone down rapidly. In addition to that, it can't be estimated when their struggle is going to stop. On the other hand, card games and other online games are experiencing a positive growth trend.

‍

How to Become a Professional Poker Player?

If you are an interested poker player, there is no gain in waiting for the right time. All you need is consistency and belief in your gaming skills. You need to grab the opportunity and start it now, but you should fulfill the criteria of being 18 years of age. As a beginner, if you are not confident in dealing with games that involve real money, then you should start without affecting money. Once you gain confidence, you are ready to become a professional player. 

Free poker tables are the best way to enhance your skills and learn your shortcomings. Participating in tournaments with affordable buying is a successful way to hone your poker skills. Through your practice and crafts, you need to build up your confidence before streaming online to earn a decent amount of money. Every job requires dedication, and so does gaming. 

When playing games involving money, especially Indian Poker, you must be more careful with your desires. Everyone has that "winning temptation' in them, sometimes leading to their downfall. One should have self-control and patience while playing this game. It will help if you learn to analyze risk and find a way to eliminate it. 

Never compare yourself with other players. Everyone has unique capabilities in different ways. So if they are good at this game and you are not, then don't consider yourself a loser. Invest your time in productive activities rather than questioning yourself. Don't push yourself so hard if you don't enjoy being a gamer. 

Take time to analyze things and make strategies to find out the odds. Pay heed to your instincts and move forward when you are ready. Keep yourself updated with new things, and keep interacting with fellow players. For more tips and tricks, check out the best poker online tricks to boost your gameplay. 

‍

Conclusion

We Hope all your doubts got cleared about how to play Indian Poker. Even though it appears to be a challenging game, it is simple and enjoyable to play once you get the hang of it. If crafts allow the steps discussed effectively, it won't take long to grasp the techniques and methods you'll need to apply to master this game.