Undoubtedly, there is a learning curve associated with poker. With so many rules, strategies, and game types, it will take you years to polish your ability.
However, the simplest method to get started is to study the various forms of poker games. There are dozens of poker variants, and while a few of them have gained widespread popularity, many more have a niche player base. Texas Hold’em and Omaha are two of the most popular poker games, but they are just the tip of the iceberg.
In this article, we will discuss many of the most popular poker variants, as well as some that you have likely never heard of! In addition, we provide guidance on which games to begin with, how to categorize poker variants, and much more.
How to Classify Poker Game Varieties
Draw poker, stud poker, and community card poker are the three primary classifications of poker. Almost every variation of the game will fit into one of these categories.
The Three Primary Poker Varieties
Draw poker, stud poker, and community card poker are the three primary classifications of poker. Almost every variation of the game will fit into one of these categories.
Draw Poker – Games in this category are those in which players are assigned concealed hands and can attempt to enhance their hands by replacing a certain number of cards. Five Card Draw and Badugi are examples of variants that fell into this category.
Stud Poker – In Stud games, players are dealt hands with a combination of concealed and exposed cards, so that their opponents have some idea of what they may be holding. Stud games Seven Card Stud and Razz are two examples.
Community Card Poker – This category includes activities that use shared or community cards. The concealed cards are used in conjunction with the community cards to create the players’ hands. Texas Hold’em and Omaha are extremely popular games in this category.
Additional Poker Varieties
In the majority of poker variations, the hand with the greatest rank obtains the payout. There are, however, two additional game types for which this is not true. Some poker variants are categorized as lowball games or high-split games, and their respective rules vary.
In lowball events, the hand with the lowest value wins the pool. Specific rules govern whether straights and flushes qualify and whether an ace is a high or low card in this form of game. Razz and Deuce-to-Seven Triple Draw are examples of lowball games.
High-Low Split – High-low split games, such as Omaha Hi/Lo, are typically among the most difficult poker variations. In these, the prize is split evenly between the player with the highest and lowest hands. It is conceivable for a participant to have both the highest and lowest hand in certain situations. Due to their complexity, these games are not recommended for novices.
Classifying Poker Games by Table Size or Betting Structure
The majority of poker variants can be played with a variety of wagering structures and limits. These govern how much you can wager and raise in particular situations. Fixed limit, no limit, and pot limit are the three primary wagering structures you should be familiar with.