Poker is a game of cards and betting that can be played with 2 or more players. It can be a low-risk game with few bets or a high-risk one where the goal is to win the pot – all of the money that was bet on a particular deal. The pot is won either by having the highest-ranked poker hand or by making a bet that no other player calls.

Players place chips (representing money) into the pot in turn during betting intervals that vary according to the poker variant being played. They can also raise a bet, adding more chips to the pot that their opponents must match or forfeit their hand.

Each player has one or more cards face up in front of them. If a player wishes to cut the deck, they must offer it to the player on their right and may not receive another card until it is returned. This player becomes the first dealer and is referred to as the button. The dealer changes each hand.

Describe the different scenes of the game. For example, the opening hands, when the players are feeling each other out, with a few bluffs, and the rising action as the chips get raised. Include anecdotes that illustrate the story, such as who flinched or smiled. Also, note the tells that players use – unconscious habits that reveal information about their hand. This is the by-play that makes the story interesting and appeals to millions of readers.