How to Play 3 Card Brag: A detailed guide to this fun card game

The game of brag—or bragg—is thought to be one of the oldest variants of poker in the whole world. It was created in the 1720s and is similar to 3 card poker in that it’s about betting and bluffing. If you’ve played 3 card poker before, you’ll take quickly to 3 card brag as there are few differences. Here’s our detailed guide how to play 3 card brag. 

It only takes a minute or two to learn the basics of 3 card brag. It is a game that’s usually played between 3-8 players at home but in online casinos, the numbers vary. Here are the strongest hand rankings: 

• Prial – 3 cards of the same number.  
• Running flush – 3 cards in sequence same suit.  
• Run – 3 cards in sequence in any suit. 
• Flush – 3 cards same suit. 
• Pair – two cards same number of any suit.  
• High card – 9-high. 

If you’re familiar with 3 card poker, you’ll already notice that these hands have different names.  

Here’s how to play 3 card brag in step by step: 

Step 1: Learn the Rules  

Though learning the rules is quicker than standard poker, for example, it does take some time to get used to them. Read the rules and have a few demo games before you play for real money.  

Step 2: Placing Your Bets  

Before the cards are dealt, place your ante bet.  

Step 3: Understanding the game’s odds  

The house edge is slightly over 2% for 3 card brag and the RTP is 98%, which is higher that 3 card poker at 96.63%. 

Step 4: Playing the Game  

Here’s how to 3 card brag: 

• Place your ante bet and any side bets. 
• Receive your cards  
• Evaluate your hand and choose whether to play or fold.  
• Place a bet of the same value as the ante wager.  
• All of the cards are revealed, collect your winnings if you’ve won.  

Some players like to use a strategy. For some, this is just a case of getting used to the concepts of the game. Here’s our tips for a successful game: 

1. Learn and know the hand rankings.  
2. Bluff wisely – this is essential.  
3. If you have a card higher than a queen, a 6 or a 4, play your hand. Otherwise, fold. 
4. Manage your bankroll wisely.  
5. Never chase losses.  

3 card brag is a fun, fast-paced casino game. If you want to add further excitement, you can also play blind and bet without looking at your cards. This means your bets will be worth double. If you then decide to look at your cards, they won’t be worth double anymore. This creates even more excitement for you!