In Ante Poker, each player contributes a small amount to the pot before the hand begins, ensuring that there is always something to win in each round. This ante is separate from the blinds and is used to build the pot before any action takes place. The ante encourages more active play since players already have an investment in the hand.
Ante Poker Example
For example, if you’re playing in a game with a $1 ante, each player must place $1 into the pot before any cards are dealt, increasing the overall pot size before the betting begins.