Are you tired of playing the same old Texas Hold’em game every time you sit down at the poker table? If so, it’s time to switch things up and try out some new poker variants. In this article, we will explore the top 10 poker variants you need to try to spice up your poker game.
1. **Texas Hold’em**: While Texas Hold’em may be the most popular poker variant, there are many other exciting options to explore. As poker legend Doyle Brunson once said, “Texas Hold’em may be the Cadillac of poker, but there are plenty of other great models out there.”
2. **Omaha**: Omaha is a great alternative to Texas Hold’em, offering players more action and bigger pots. According to poker pro Phil Ivey, “Omaha is a game that requires a different skill set than Texas Hold’em, but once you master it, the rewards can be great.”
3. **Seven Card Stud**: Seven Card Stud is a classic poker variant that has been around for decades. It’s a favorite among old-school players like Stu Ungar, who once said, “Seven Card Stud is the true test of a poker player’s skill and patience.”
4. **Razz**: Razz is a lowball variant of Seven Card Stud where the goal is to make the lowest possible hand. It’s a fun and challenging game that can keep you on your toes. As poker pro Daniel Negreanu puts it, “Razz is a game that requires a different mindset than most poker variants, but it can be very rewarding if you put in the time to learn it.”
5. **Badugi**: Badugi is a draw poker variant that originated in Asia and is gaining popularity in the West. It’s a unique and fun game that rewards players for making the lowest possible hand with four different suits. According to poker expert Barry Greenstein, “Badugi is a game that rewards creativity and adaptability, making it a great choice for players who like to think outside the box.”
6. **Pineapple**: Pineapple is a variant of Texas Hold’em where players are dealt three hole cards instead of two. It adds an extra layer of strategy and excitement to the game. Poker pro Jennifer Harman once said, “Pineapple is a game that can lead to big pots and big swings, making it a favorite among action junkies.”
7. **Crazy Pineapple**: Crazy Pineapple is a wild and wacky variant of Pineapple where players are dealt three hole cards but must discard one after the flop. It’s a fast-paced and unpredictable game that can keep you guessing until the very end. According to poker legend Phil Hellmuth, “Crazy Pineapple is a game that rewards bold play and quick thinking, making it a favorite among adrenaline junkies.”
8. **Chinese Poker**: Chinese Poker is a unique variant of poker where players are dealt 13 cards and must arrange them into three separate hands. It’s a game of skill and strategy that can be incredibly fun and challenging. Poker pro Gus Hansen once said, “Chinese Poker is a game that requires a different kind of thinking than most poker variants, but once you get the hang of it, it can be very rewarding.”
9. **Short Deck Poker**: Short Deck Poker is a variant of Texas Hold’em played with a 36-card deck where all cards below a six are removed. It’s a fast and action-packed game that has been gaining popularity in recent years. According to poker expert Tom Dwan, “Short Deck Poker is a game that rewards aggressive play and quick decision-making, making it a favorite among high-stakes players.”
10. **H.O.R.S.E.**: H.O.R.S.E. is a mixed game variant that combines five different poker games – Hold’em, Omaha, Razz, Seven Card Stud, and Eight or Better. It’s a test of a player’s versatility and skill across multiple disciplines. As poker pro Phil Ivey once said, “H.O.R.S.E. is a game that separates the amateurs from the pros, as it requires a deep understanding of multiple poker variants.”
So there you have it – the top 10 poker variants you need to try to take your game to the next level. Whether you’re looking for more action, more strategy, or just a new challenge, these variants have something for everyone. So why not mix things up and give them a try? Who knows, you might just find your new favorite poker game.