
Poker is a card game that’s played by people all over the world. It’s not just one game though as it famously encompasses many different types, each with its own set of rules and strategies. If you’re new to poker or just curious, knowing these differences can help you choose the best version for you.
Given how popular online poker has become, it’s also useful to know some of its most widely used variations. According to gambling expert Sergio Zammit, many of poker sites come with a large library of poker games to choose from. Understanding variations and other features like rakeback can help players maximize their experience and get the most out of it if playing online.
For anyone looking to learn the different varieties of poker, here’s a look at its most popular versions and how they work.
Texas Hold’em
Texas Hold’em is probably the poker game you’ve heard about the most, especially from events like the very famous World Series of Poker. In this version, players get two cards to keep to themselves (called ‘hole cards’) with five cards then placed face-up on the table that everyone can use. The goal is to make the best five-card hand using any combination of your two cards and the five on the table.
This variety is popular because it’s easy to learn but takes a lot of practice and strategy to master. Think of it like playing chess; it’s simple to understand the moves, but you need practice to know when to make those moves. So, if you’re a beginner looking to try out poker, Texas Hold’em is usually a great place to start.
Omaha: Like Hold’em, But With More Cards
Omaha is a lot like Texas Hold’em, but with one big difference—you get four cards instead of two. But, you have to only use two of them, along with three of the shared cards, to make your hand. This makes the game more complicated because there are more possible combinations.
Imagine playing a video game where you suddenly have more tools or weapons to choose from. It’s exciting, but it also means you have to think more carefully about your moves. Omaha is the go-to for people who like games with lots of options and a bit more action.
Seven-Card Stud: Old-School Poker
Before Texas Hold’em became the star of the poker world. Seven-Card Stud was the game everyone played. In this game, there are no shared cards. Instead, each player gets seven cards, some face up so everyone can see them, and some face down, hidden from others.
Seven-Card Stud is like playing a memory game that’s good for the brain since you have to remember which cards everyone has shown. It’s slower and more thoughtful than Texas Hold’em or Omaha, which makes it perfect for players who like to take their time and think things through.
Razz: The Lowest Hand Wins
Rass is a little different from other poker games because, in this one, the lowest hand wins. Usually, in poker, you want to have the highest cards, but in Razz, you’re aiming for the smallest. For example, the best hand in Razz is A-2-3-4-5, which is called ‘the wheel.’
Playing Razz is like doing the opposite of what you’d normally do in other games. It’s a fun challenge, especially for people who like to try new and unusual things. Razz is often played in mixed games, where you switch between different poker styles.
Five-Card Draw: The Simple Starter
Five-Card Draw is one of the easiest poker games to learn, which is why it’s often the first version that people pick up. In this game, each player gets five cards, and after one round of betting, they can choose to exchange some of their cards for new ones in hopes of making a better hand.
Five-Card Draw is kind of like Go Fish, where you try to improve your hand by drawing new cards. It’s straightforward and doesn’t have many complicated rules, so it might be the starting point you’ve been looking for.
Mixed Games: A Little Bit of Everything
If you’re a firm believer that variety is indeed the spice of life, then mixed games are perfect for you. In these games, the type of poker changes every few hands. One minute you might be playing Texas Hold’em, and the next you’re playing Razz. This keeps the game exciting and tests your skills in different ways.
These games are especially popular among serious poker players who enjoy the challenge of mastering multiple styles.