Chinese Poker stands apart from traditional poker variants by focusing on card arrangement rather than betting rounds. Each player receives thirteen cards and must organize them into three poker hands: two five-card hands (called the middle and back) and one three-card hand (the front).

The back hand must be the strongest, the middle hand weaker, and the front hand the weakest. After setting their hands, players compare them against opponents’ corresponding hands and score points accordingly.

This game rewards skill in hand evaluation, balance, and anticipating opponents’ possible setups. Chinese Poker is especially popular in Asia and has seen high-stakes play among professionals, particularly in Open-Face Chinese Poker (OFC), a modern variant where players set hands gradually as cards are revealed. With little bluffing and minimal betting, Chinese Poker appeals to players who enjoy puzzle-like challenges and strategic depth outside traditional poker structures.