Per-Ante house edge
The initial Ante is placed every hand, making it a convenient fixed denominator. Strategy determines how often an equal Play wager is added.
Expected loss divided only by Ante produces the conventional base-game edge.
Element of risk
Dividing the same expected loss by average Ante plus Play action produces a smaller percentage. That does not make the game better; the denominator is larger.
Comparisons must use the same denominator.
Variance
Folding creates a one-unit loss, continuing can risk two units, and Ante Bonus awards add positive tails. Side bets can add much sharper rare payouts.
Bankroll planning should not rely only on average loss.
Strategy errors
Playing too many queen-high hands adds a wager in negative incremental states. Folding hands above Q-6-4 gives up profitable continuations.
The compact boundary makes the base decision unusually easy to execute consistently.
Practical checklist
- Label denominator
- Use standard Q-6-4 assumptions
- Separate side-bet action
- Model actual Play frequency
- Distinguish expectation from session result
Rules, probabilities, and payouts apply only to the model stated on this page. Posted casino rules control when they differ. Last reviewed September 20, 2026.