Casino card games have traditionally been known for their classic routes—be it blackjack, poker, or baccarat. However, many seasoned players, particularly fans of Texas Hold’em, have taken to trying short deck poker.
But what exactly is short deck poker, why is its popularity growing, and how does it differ from traditional poker? If you’re among those wanting to test their skills in this game, read on. We’ll cover the rules, hand rankings, and useful tips to help you succeed in your first short deck poker games.
What Is Short Deck Poker and Why Is It Gaining Popularity?
Short deck poker is a variant of classic Texas Hold’em where the deck is reduced to 36 cards, starting from sixes and above. This explains the “short” in its name.
The game is sometimes called six-plus hold ’em due to its use of cards from six and above. Another popular name is Manila poker, which became widely used in the 2010s. The game originated in Asia, where it remains a favourite among high-stakes players.
Short deck poker has captured the attention of experienced players tired of traditional Hold’em variants due to its faster pace and the increased frequency of high-value hands.
Short Deck Poker Rules
Like other poker games, short deck poker can be played with two to ten players, making it a great choice for home games and online casinos alike.
The game uses a standard 52-card deck, but all twos, threes, fours, and fives are removed.
How the Game Plays Out
- Each player receives two cards at the start of the round.
- The dealer reveals three community cards (the flop).
- Two more rounds follow—the turn and the river—with one additional card revealed in each.
- Betting takes place after each set of revealed cards.
The betting format in short deck poker differs from standard Hold’em due to its “blinds button” structure, where there are no small/big blinds.
Hand Rankings in Short Deck Poker
Despite the smaller deck, poker hand rankings remain almost the same, with one significant difference: in short deck, a flush ranks higher than a full house.
Hand Rankings
- High Card: The highest-ranking card in a player’s hand.
- Pair: Two cards of the same rank.
- Two Pair: Two cards of one rank and another two of a different rank.
- Three of a Kind: Three cards of the same rank.
- Straight: Five consecutive cards by value.
- Full House: A combination of a pair and three of a kind.
- Flush: Five cards of the same suit.
- Four of a Kind: Four cards of the same rank.
- Straight Flush: A sequence of cards in the same suit.
- Royal Flush: A, K, Q, J, and 10 of the same suit.
Short Deck Poker Strategy: Key Tips
- Use the 3 and 6 Rule: This will help you estimate your chances of winning.
- Focus on Straights: Straights are more likely than flushes due to the reduced number of cards.
- Don’t Rely on Paired Hands: They are rarely effective compared to other poker variations.
Short deck hold ‘em represents the evolution of the game, offering an exciting experience for those seeking something new. You now know how to play, so all that’s left is to find the right casino and test your luck. Good luck, and enjoy the game.
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