Boston 5

Introduction to Boston 5:

Boston 5 is a captivating card game renowned for its blend of strategy and luck. Originating in Boston, Massachusetts, this game has gained popularity for its dynamic gameplay and unpredictable outcomes. Players strive to assemble the best five-card hand from a standard 52-card deck, aiming to outwit their opponents and secure victory. With its roots deeply embedded in American card gaming culture, Boston 5 promises an exciting and engaging experience for players of all skill levels.

Rules:

  1. Players begin by placing an ante bet and a “first wager,” which must be double the ante.
  2. An optional 3 card bonus bet is available, but players must also play the main game.
  3. Each player receives 3 cards, and sharing information is prohibited.
  4. Players with at least a pair after the initial deal can show their cards for payment on the bonus bet.
  5. Players decide to fold and forfeit bets or raise with a “second wager” equal to the first.
  6. After raising, players receive two additional cards from the dealer.
  7. Hands are compared individually to the dealer’s 5-card hand; the highest hand wins.
  8. Winning hands earn even money on both wagers, with the ante pushing.
  9. Losing to the dealer results in losing wagers and the ante.
  10. In the event of a tie, all bets push.
  11. Players with qualifying hands may receive an Ante Bonus, even if they lose to the dealer.
  12. Ante Bonus payouts are based on specific hand values, with variations shown in tables provided.

Strategy:

Raising on every hand, even with weak 3-card hands, is advised over folding. However, consider avoiding the 3-card bonus bet if the flush pays only 3 to 1, although it becomes acceptable at 4 to 1.

House Edge:

The house maintains an advantage primarily because players lose their ante if the dealer wins, while only pushing if the player wins. With the ante constituting 20% of the total bet, this gives the dealer an extra 10% advantage (as the player wins half the time). However, the Ante Bonus offers the player a 6.68% edge under table 2-A and 6.52% under table 2-B. Consequently, the house edge in Boston 5 stands at 3.32% under pay table 2-A and 3.48% under table 2-B. This is determined by the ratio of expected player loss to the total amount bet, considering the player’s consistent raising strategy.