Different Poker Types Full Guide

1. Texas Hold'em

Main Page: Texas Hold'em Poker

Texas Hold'em is one of the most popular variations of poker and is widely played both in casual settings and in professional tournaments worldwide. The essence of the game revolves around players forming the best five-card poker hand from a combination of their two private cards and five community cards. At the beginning of each hand, players are dealt two hole cards face down, followed by a round of betting. Then, three community cards, known as the flop, are dealt face up in the middle of the table, followed by another round of betting. Subsequently, a fourth community card, called the turn or fourth street, is dealt, followed by more betting. Finally, a fifth and final community card, known as the river or fifth street, is dealt, and the last round of betting takes place. The player with the best hand, or the last player remaining after all others have folded, wins the pot.

The rules of Texas Hold'em are relatively straightforward and easy to understand, making it accessible to players of all skill levels. The game typically features two forced bets, known as the small blind and the big blind, which ensure there is always something to play for in each hand. After the blinds are posted, each player is dealt two private cards, and the action proceeds clockwise around the table with players having the option to fold, call, or raise during each round of betting. The objective of the game is to win chips by either having the best hand at the showdown or by bluffing other players into folding their hands.

Texas Hold'em is believed to have originated in Robstown, Texas, in the early 1900s. However, it wasn't until the 1960s that the game gained widespread popularity when it was introduced to Las Vegas casinos. Over the years, Texas Hold'em has evolved into the most widely played poker variant in the world, with numerous variations and strategies developed by players to gain an edge over their opponents. A fun fact about Texas Hold'em is that the World Series of Poker (WSOP), the most prestigious poker tournament in the world, has been featuring Texas Hold'em as its main event since 1971, catapulting the game into the global spotlight and making it a cultural phenomenon.

In terms of strategy, Texas Hold'em is a game of skill, strategy, and psychological warfare. While luck plays a role in the short term, long-term success in Texas Hold'em is largely determined by a player's understanding of hand rankings, betting patterns, and the ability to read and manipulate opponents. Key strategies include understanding starting hand selection, knowing when to bet, raise, or fold, and employing tactics such as bluffing, semi-bluffing, and value betting to maximize profits and minimize losses. Additionally, players must be adept at managing their bankroll, maintaining discipline, and controlling their emotions to succeed in the highly competitive and unpredictable world of Texas Hold'em poker.

2. Omaha

Main Page: Omaha Poker

Omaha is a popular variant of poker that shares many similarities with Texas Hold'em but has its own distinct set of rules and strategies. The game was reportedly created in the 1980s in the United States and quickly gained popularity in both cash games and tournament settings. The essence of Omaha lies in each player being dealt four private cards (hole cards) instead of two, and using a combination of two of these hole cards along with three of the five community cards on the board to make the best five-card poker hand.

In Omaha, there are several types of betting rounds that add layers of strategy and complexity to the game. The most common betting structures are Pot-Limit Omaha (PLO) and Omaha Hi-Lo, also known as Omaha 8 or Better. In Pot-Limit Omaha, players can bet any amount from the minimum bet up to the size of the pot. Omaha Hi-Lo, on the other hand, is a split-pot game where the highest and lowest hands can share the pot. This introduces additional strategic considerations, as players must not only focus on making a high hand but also a low hand with five unpaired cards ranked 8 or lower.

Strategically, Omaha requires a strong understanding of hand selection, position, and pot odds. Given that players have four hole cards to start with, there are exponentially more potential hand combinations compared to Texas Hold'em, making starting hand selection crucial. Positional play is also vital, as acting last allows players to gain more information about their opponents' hands and intentions. Additionally, calculating pot odds and understanding equity becomes even more important in Omaha due to the split-pot nature of Omaha Hi-Lo and the larger number of potential hand combinations. A fun fact about Omaha is that it was originally intended to be a high-stakes poker variant, attracting seasoned poker professionals looking for a new challenge. However, its popularity has grown to the extent that it is now widely played at all stakes and is a staple in both online and live poker rooms around the world.

3. Seven Card Stud

Main Page: Seven Card Stud Poker

Seven Card Stud is one of the classic variations of poker that has been around for many years, although its exact origins are not precisely documented. It is believed to have been developed during the 19th century in America, making it one of the older forms of poker. The game gained significant popularity in the 20th century and was commonly played in casinos and home games before the rise of Texas Hold'em and other modern variants.

The essence of Seven Card Stud revolves around each player being dealt a total of seven cards, three of which are face-down and four are face-up. The objective for each player is to make the best possible five-card poker hand using a combination of their own cards and the community cards. Unlike Texas Hold'em, there are no shared or community cards dealt in Seven Card Stud, making the game more focused on individual hands and betting based on perceived hand strength.

In Seven Card Stud, the types of bets that can be made include the typical poker bets such as “ante,” “bring-in,” “bet,” “raise,” and “fold.” The game usually starts with an “ante” from each player, followed by a “bring-in” from the player with the lowest face-up card. Subsequent rounds involve betting based on the strength of the player's hand and their strategic assessment of their opponents' hands. Strategies in Seven Card Stud often involve hand reading, bluffing, and understanding betting patterns to determine whether opponents have strong or weak hands. A fun fact about Seven Card Stud is that it was the most popular poker variant played in the United States before the advent of Texas Hold'em, showcasing its historical significance in the world of poker.

4. Five Card Draw

Main Page: Five Card Draw Poker

Five Card Draw is one of the classic variants of poker, offering a simple and straightforward gameplay that has captivated players for generations. In this game, each player is dealt five cards face-down, and the primary objective is to make the best five-card hand possible. Players have the opportunity to discard and replace cards from their initial hand in an attempt to improve their hand's strength. The game's essence lies in strategic decision-making, as players must assess their hand's potential and decide which cards to keep and which to discard.

The rules of Five Card Draw are relatively simple and easy to understand. After the initial deal, players take turns in a clockwise direction, starting from the player to the left of the dealer. During their turn, players can choose to discard any number of cards from their hand and receive new ones from the deck. After the draw phase, there is a final round of betting where players can either bet, raise, call, or fold based on the strength of their hand and their confidence in their ability to win the pot. The player with the best five-card hand at the end of the game wins the pot.

In terms of strategies, Five Card Draw requires a blend of skill, intuition, and bluffing. Since players can see only their own cards, reading opponents and predicting their hand strength becomes crucial. Discarding and drawing cards strategically can also significantly impact the outcome of the game. Over the years, this classic poker variant has evolved, and while it may not be as popular as some of the more modern poker games like Texas Hold'em or Omaha, it still holds a special place in the hearts of many poker enthusiasts. As for its origins, Five Card Draw is believed to have been created in the United States during the 19th century and has since become a staple in home games and casual poker gatherings. A fun fact about Five Card Draw is that it was once the most popular poker variant played in the United States before the rise of Texas Hold'em in the late 20th century.

5. Razz

Main Page: Razz Poker

Razz is a unique variation of poker that stands apart from more traditional forms like Texas Hold'em and Omaha. In this game, the objective is not to make the highest-ranking hand but rather the lowest. Players aim to build the lowest five-card hand from seven dealt cards, which consists of two hole cards and five community cards. The lowest possible hand in Razz is A-2-3-4-5, also known as the “wheel” or “the nuts,” and straights and flushes do not count against a player's hand, making it crucial to aim for the lowest possible combination of cards.

The rules of Razz are quite similar to 7-Card Stud, with players being dealt two hole cards face down and one card face up as their starting hand. This is followed by a round of betting, after which three more community cards are dealt face up, each followed by another round of betting. Finally, a seventh card is dealt face down, and a final round of betting occurs before the showdown. In terms of bets, Razz typically uses fixed-limit betting, meaning players can only bet and raise by predetermined amounts in each round. This betting structure requires a different strategic approach compared to no-limit or pot-limit games.

Strategically, Razz requires a different mindset compared to other poker variants. Since the objective is to form the lowest hand, players need to pay close attention to their upcards and the potential for making low hands. Starting with strong low cards like A-2 or 3-4 can give players an advantage, but the game also involves a lot of bluffing and reading opponents' hands. A fun fact about Razz is that it was introduced to the World Series of Poker (WSOP) in 1971 and has since become a popular event among both professional and amateur players. Despite its unique rules and strategies, Razz offers an exciting and challenging poker experience that tests players' skill and adaptability.

6. 2 Hand

Main Page: 2 Hand Poker

2-Hand Poker is a unique and engaging variation of traditional poker, designed for a more intimate gaming experience between two players. This game captures the essence of poker's strategic depth while simplifying the gameplay to focus on head-to-head competition. Players are dealt two hands each, allowing for a blend of skill, luck, and psychological warfare as opponents attempt to outwit and outplay each other. The game's streamlined format makes it accessible for players of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned poker enthusiasts.

In 2-Hand Poker, the rules closely resemble those of standard poker, with players aiming to form the highest-ranking hand possible using a combination of their two dealt hands. The game typically begins with an initial bet or “ante” to kickstart the action. Players then have the option to “raise” the bet, “call” to match the current bet, or “fold” to forfeit their hands and exit the round. Popular types of bets in 2-Hand Poker include “pot-limit” and “no-limit” betting structures, offering varying levels of risk and reward. Additionally, some variations may incorporate side bets or special rules to spice up the gameplay and introduce new strategic elements.

Strategic gameplay is at the heart of 2-Hand Poker, as players must carefully consider their hand strength, position, and opponent's tendencies to make informed decisions. Key strategies include bluffing to deceive opponents, reading body language for tells, and mastering the art of bet sizing to maximize profits while minimizing losses. As with any poker game, adaptability and situational awareness are crucial skills for success in 2-Hand Poker.

Interestingly, the exact year of 2-Hand Poker's creation is not well-documented, but it has gained popularity over the years as a fun and challenging alternative to traditional poker formats. One fun fact about 2-Hand Poker is its versatility, as the game can be easily adapted with house rules or unique variations to keep gameplay fresh and exciting.

7. Caribbean Stud

Main Page: Caribbean Stud Poker

Caribbean Stud Poker, often simply referred to as Caribbean Stud, is a popular casino table game that combines elements of traditional poker with the format of a casino table game. Unlike standard poker games where players compete against each other, in Caribbean Stud, players go head-to-head against the dealer. The objective is to form a stronger five-card poker hand than the dealer's hand. A unique feature of Caribbean Stud is the potential to win a progressive jackpot in addition to the standard game payouts, adding an extra layer of excitement to the gameplay.

Caribbean Stud Poker begins with each player placing an initial bet, known as the “ante.” The dealer then deals five cards face down to each player and five cards to themselves, with one of the dealer's cards being dealt face up. Based on their hand and the dealer's up card, players decide whether to fold and forfeit their ante or continue by placing an additional bet, typically double the ante. The dealer then reveals their remaining cards, and hands are compared. To qualify, the dealer must have at least an Ace-King high hand. If the dealer does not qualify, players receive even money on their ante bet, while the additional bet pushes. If the dealer qualifies and the player's hand beats the dealer's hand, the player wins even money on the ante bet, and the additional bet is paid according to a payout table.

Strategies in Caribbean Stud Poker revolve around knowing when to fold and when to raise, based on the strength of your hand relative to the dealer's up card. A basic strategy suggests raising with any pair or better and folding with less than Ace-King high. The game is believed to have been invented in the 1980s in Aruba, though its exact origins are debated. A fun fact about Caribbean Stud Poker is that it gained significant popularity after being introduced to Nevada casinos in the 1990s. There are various types of bets in Caribbean Stud Poker, including the mandatory Ante bet that initiates the game, the optional additional bet that doubles the stakes, and the progressive jackpot bet that offers players a chance to win a substantial jackpot for specific hands like a royal flush or a straight flush.

8. Three Card

Main Page: Three Card Poker

Three Card Poker is a popular and fast-paced casino card game that combines elements of traditional poker with the speed of other casino table games. The game is played with a standard 52-card deck and offers players the opportunity to play against the dealer rather than against each other, adding a unique dynamic to the traditional poker experience. The objective of the game is to have a higher-ranking hand than the dealer using just three cards. With its simple rules and quick gameplay, Three Card Poker has become a favorite among both novice and experienced casino-goers.

The rules of Three Card Poker are relatively straightforward. At the beginning of each hand, players must place an Ante wager to receive their three cards. After examining their cards, players have two options: they can either fold and forfeit their Ante wager, or they can make a Play wager, which must be equal to the Ante wager. Once all players have made their decisions, the dealer reveals their three cards. To qualify, the dealer must have a Queen high or better. If the dealer does not qualify, players win even money on their Ante wagers and the Play wagers push. If the dealer qualifies and has a higher-ranking hand than the player, both the Ante and Play wagers lose. If the player's hand is higher, they win even money on both wagers. Additionally, players can make a separate Pair Plus bet, which pays out based on the strength of the player's hand regardless of the dealer's hand.

Strategically, Three Card Poker is a game of decision-making based on the strength of your hand. While there is no guaranteed strategy to win, players often follow basic guidelines such as playing any hand that is Queen-Six-Four or higher and folding anything lower. Three Card Poker was invented by Derek Webb in 1994 and has since gained widespread popularity in casinos worldwide. In addition to the main Ante and Play wagers, players can also place a Pair Plus bet, where they are betting on whether their hand will include a pair or better. A fun fact about Three Card Poker is that it was initially called “Casino Brag” before being rebranded with its current name.

9. Chinese

Main Page: Chinese Poker

Chinese Poker, also known as Pusoy or Russian Poker, is a captivating and strategic card game that traces its origins to Asia. While the exact year of its creation remains a topic of debate, Chinese Poker gained significant popularity in the mid-20th century. The game is typically played with a standard 52-card deck, but variations might involve the inclusion of jokers. Unlike many other poker variants, Chinese Poker focuses on individual hands rather than communal cards, which adds a unique layer of strategy and excitement to the gameplay.

The basic rules of Chinese Poker are relatively straightforward. Each player is dealt 13 cards, which they must arrange into three separate hands: two five-card hands (known as “bottom” and “middle”) and one three-card hand (known as “top”). The objective is to create the highest-ranking hands possible, with the bottom hand being the strongest, followed by the middle hand, and finally the top hand. Once all players have arranged their hands, they reveal them simultaneously, and comparisons are made hand-to-hand.

Strategies in Chinese Poker revolve around maximizing the strength of each hand while maintaining balance across all three. Players must carefully consider how to distribute their strongest cards and how to defend against potential strong hands from opponents. While luck plays a role due to the randomness of card distribution, skillful players can gain a significant advantage through strategic planning and understanding of hand rankings.

Chinese Poker offers various betting options to spice up the gameplay and increase the stakes. Common betting structures include fixed-limit, pot-limit, and no-limit, allowing players to tailor the game to their preferred level of risk and reward. Additionally, some variations introduce special bonus payouts for exceptionally strong hands, such as four-of-a-kind or a straight flush.

10. Badugi

Main Page: Badugi Poker

Badugi poker is a unique and intriguing variant of poker that differs significantly from the more commonly known Texas Hold'em or Omaha. In Badugi, the objective is to create the lowest possible hand using four cards, with the ultimate goal of having four different suits and no pairs. Essentially, the best possible hand in Badugi is known as a Badugi, which consists of four cards of different suits and ranks. The game is played with a single deck of cards, typically with the jokers removed, and the hand rankings are also distinct from other poker variants. Aces are considered low, and flushes and pairs are detrimental to a hand's value, making the game a delightful challenge for poker enthusiasts seeking something fresh and unconventional.

Badugi poker has its roots in Asia, specifically in South Korea, and is believed to have originated in the mid-20th century. While the exact year of its creation remains somewhat unclear, Badugi gained popularity in Korean casinos and among poker players in the region before eventually spreading to other parts of the world. Its rise in prominence in the global poker community came later, particularly with the advent of online poker platforms that offered Badugi as one of their game options. Despite its Asian origins, Badugi has found a diverse and enthusiastic following among players worldwide, drawn to its unique gameplay and strategic depth.

In Badugi, the types of bets are similar to other poker variants, including options for checking, betting, raising, and folding. The strategic complexity of Badugi lies in the selection and discarding of cards during the drawing rounds, aiming to improve one's hand while also trying to decipher opponents' holdings. Players must carefully manage their resources and employ bluffing tactics judiciously to succeed in Badugi. A fun fact about Badugi is that its name is derived from a Korean card game called “Paduk,” which shares some similarities with poker but has distinct rules and objectives. Over time, “Paduk” evolved into “Badugi,” reflecting its unique identity as a poker variant with roots in traditional Korean gaming culture.