Poker is a card game with many variants. The game differs from version to variation, and there are different betting periods. One player has the privilege and obligation to place the first bet, and each player must place a number of chips into the pot equal to the total contribution made by the players who came before him. Players who place chips in the pot are said to be active players. Once a player decides to fold, he or she forfeits his or her rights to the pot.

The game was originally played in the sixteenth century by Germans. The name comes from the word pochen, which referred to a similar bluffing game. Later, it was adapted into a French version known as poque. This game eventually made its way to the New World, and became popular among French settlers. It has become one of the most popular card games, attracting a large number of players. In addition to poker, there are other card games that are played for money.

Some versions of poker require blind bets, which may replace the ante. The blind bet requirement is rotated around the table every round. Usually, each player takes turns making a blind bet, and must call it before checking. The blind bets are worth a minimum of one percent of a player’s total chips. This is a good way to ensure that every player gets a fair shot at winning a game.