Invented in the 1980s specifically to attract poker players to the main casino floor, Caribbean Stud is a fantastic, fast-paced table game.

Furthermore, Caribbean Stud is famous for offering a massive, life-changing progressive jackpot side bet that can reach millions of dollars.

How to Start a Game of Caribbean Stud

Once all Antes are firmly placed on the table, the dealer distributes exactly five cards face down to every participating player.

They must either "Fold" and immediately lose their Ante, or "Call" (also known as "Play") by placing a bet exactly twice the size of their Ante.

• The game uses standard five-card poker rankings (e.g., Flush, Full House)
• Players only compete against the dealer, never against each other
• The initial mandatory bet is called the "Ante"

Why the Dealer Must Qualify

If the player decides to "Call" and double their bet, the dealer flips over their remaining four hidden cards to reveal their hand.

If the dealer fails to qualify (e.g., they only have Queen-high), the player instantly wins even money (1:1) on their Ante bet.

The Massive Jackpot Side Bet

Because there is only one decision to make, the optimal mathematical strategy for Caribbean Stud is surprisingly rigid and easy to memorize.

Aside from the main game, Caribbean Stud is famous for its optional $1 progressive jackpot side bet.

Caribbean Stud offers a fantastic, low-stress bridge between the intense strategy of the poker room and the pure luck of the casino pit.