Of course! In Red Dragon Poker, "showing" or "exposing" one of your hole cards is a core strategic action tied to the game's unique bonus side bet.

Here’s a complete guide on how, when, and why to show a card to the table.

How to Physically Show Your Card

1. After Receiving Your Hole Cards: You will be dealt two private cards face-down, just like in Texas Hold'em.

2. The Decision: Before any community cards are dealt (during the pre-flop betting round), you can choose to expose one of your two cards.

3. The Action: Simply turn one of your two cards face-up on the table for everyone (all other players and the dealer) to see.

4. Placement: The exposed card is typically left in front of your betting area for the remainder of the hand. Your other card remains hidden.

Why Would You Show a Card? (The Strategic Reasons)

This isn't just for fun; it directly impacts the game's main side bet, the "Red Dragon Bonus."

1. To Qualify for the Red Dragon Bonus:

* This is the primary reason. To win the progressive jackpot or other fixed payouts from the Red Dragon Bonus, you must have exposed one of your cards pre-flop.

* If you don't show a card, you are not eligible for the bonus, even if you make a Royal Flush or other qualifying hand.

2. For an Immediate Payout (The "Dragon Bonus"):

* As soon as you expose your card, the dealer will pay you a small, immediate bonus based on the rank and suit of that single card.

* Example Payouts (can vary by casino):

* Ace of Diamonds (The "Red Dragon"): Highest payout, often a fixed amount or a percentage of the jackpot.

* Any Ace: Smaller fixed payout.

* Any Pair (e.g., you have 7-7 and show one): Fixed payout.

* Suited Cards (e.g., you have K♦ Q♦ and show one diamond): Fixed payout.

* You get this money immediately, regardless of what happens in the main poker hand.

Key Rules and Implications to Remember

* It's Optional: You are never forced to show a card. It's a strategic choice.

* Timing is Crucial: You can only do this pre-flop, before any community cards are revealed. Once the flop is dealt, it's too late.

* You Only Show One Card: You choose which one of your two cards to expose. You cannot show both.

* Information is Power (for your opponents): The biggest drawback is that you are giving away information. Now everyone knows one of your cards for the entire hand, which makes it harder for you to bluff and easier for them to put you on a hand.

* It Doesn't Affect the Main Pot: Showing a card has no impact on the rules of the Texas Hold'em hand itself. It only affects the separate Red Dragon Bonus side bet and its immediate payouts.

Step-by-Step Summary for a Player:

1. Get Dealt In: Receive your two hole cards face-down.

2. Look at Your Cards: Check if you have a strong single card (like an Ace) or a pair, which would give you a good immediate Dragon Bonus payout.

3. Make Your Decision:

* To Show: If you want the immediate payout and a shot at the progressive jackpot, announce "Dragon" or "Bonus," and physically turn one card face-up. The dealer will pay you.

* Not to Show: If your cards are weak or you value secrecy more than the bonus, keep both cards hidden. You will not be eligible for the Red Dragon Bonus.

4. Play the Hand: Continue playing the Texas Hold'em hand as normal, but with one of your cards exposed for all to see.

By showing a card, you are trading the strategic advantage of complete secrecy for a chance at a significant bonus and an immediate cash reward.