Poker is one of the most beloved card games in the world, but have you ever paused during a hand and asked yourself: who invented poker? At BC55, where poker is more than just a game, we’re just as fascinated by the rich history that shaped what we play today.

The Mystery of Poker’s Origins

The question of who invented poker doesn’t have a straight answer. That’s because poker wasn’t created by just one person or at a single moment in history. It slowly evolved over centuries, influenced by different games and cultures from around the world.

Some historians believe poker dates back to 10th-century China, where royalty played a domino-style card game. Others say it came from a 16th-century Persian game called As-Nas, which already included things like hand rankings and bluffing, quite similar to the poker we play today. Although we still can’t say for sure who invented poker, one thing is clear: these early games paved the way for the poker that’s now played everywhere, even right here in Malaysia.

From Europe to the American Frontier

As we follow the journey of poker through time, we arrive in Europe. French settlers brought a game called Poque to New Orleans in the 1700s. Poque was a bluffing game that bore a striking resemblance to the poker we play today. It’s no surprise that when it made its way into American culture, it slowly transformed into something bigger.

In the early 1800s, particularly in New Orleans, the word “poker” began to appear. A 20-card version was played by four players who bet on the best hand. Riverboat gamblers then spread the game up the Mississippi River. Over time, the game expanded to use a full 52-card deck, with new hand rankings like flushes and straights being added. While we still don’t know exactly who invented poker, it’s clear that the American frontier played a major role in its evolution.

Modern Poker and the Rise of Online Platforms

By the 20th century, poker had become a staple in American culture. Games like Texas Hold’em and Five Card Stud became standard across casinos. And now, thanks to platforms like BC55, poker is more accessible than ever before. You no longer have to visit a casino to enjoy the game—online poker lets you experience the thrill from your own home.

Here at BC55, we believe that understanding where the game came from makes it even more enjoyable. When you sit down at a virtual table, you’re taking part in a game shaped by centuries of strategy, risk-taking, and fun.

Why the Origin Story Matters

So, who invented poker? While there’s no single inventor, poker is a perfect example of how cultures influence one another. From Persia to France to America—and now to your mobile device—the game has always adapted and evolved.

At BC55, we’re proud to be part of that legacy. We offer a variety of poker games for players of all skill levels, whether you’re here to relax or test your skills in competitive matches. Knowing the story behind the game adds a layer of meaning to every card you draw and every bluff you make.

Poker’s Past, Present, and Future

The next time someone asks you who invented poker, you’ll have a story to tell. It’s a story that spans continents and centuries. And when you play at BC55, you’re not just joining a game. You’re stepping into a global tradition that continues to grow and evolve.

Whether you’re here for fun or competition, BC55 brings you closer to the heart of poker.  Sign up, shuffle the deck, and be part of the history. Follow BC55 Casino where we connect casino fun with real history. Play with us!