Horse Poker: An Introduction For Beginners

Among the many variants of card games that belong to the poker family, H.O.R.S.E. is a mixed game format that's gaining popularity steadily. Like the other variants, this form of poker involves strategy, skill, and an affinity for high stakes. This form of poker is commonly played in casinos all over the world. The next few lines will throw light on H.O.R.S.E. poker for beginners.

This form of poker has a religious following because of the mixed skill sets and tactics derived from different variants of poker games. For those of you who are wearing the blank poker face right now, Relax! H.O.R.S.E. is a mix of different poker games. The list below will make things clear.

Texas Hold ‘em (H)

Omaha Hi-Lo (O)

Razz (R)

Seven Card Stud(S)

Eight or better (E)

When you actually get down to playing H.O.R.S.E. on a table you will realize you are playing different variations of these five common poker games. Although in some poker tournaments the final table consists of a no-limit Hold ‘em, most times these games consist of a limit format that's fixed.

Horse Table

Choosing an H.O.R.S.E. table entirely depends on the limit you're capable of handling. The games you play have a fixed limit format, so if you decide to pick a $10/$20 H.O.R.S.E. table, it would mean that the fixed limit for every game you play will be $10 in case of a small bet and $20 for the large one. The uniformity on a table is clear in terms of the number of times the game switches, unlike H.O.R.S.E. being played at cash ring table where the game changes in accordance with the dealer button completing a rotation. In a tournament, the game switches in tune with the blind instead of a rotation.

H.O.R.S.E. Poker Strategies for Beginners

Like any other variant of poker, this form of poker needs a lot of practice, as shown by Jacobs Poker busting a half a million bankroll made in PLO in two months of HORSE. If you're a beginner in the realm of H.O.R.S.E. poker it would be advisable to watch other professionals play. Learn the tricks of the trade and quietly take part in a local tournament to get a feel of things. Here's a list of some of the strategies you must keep in mind.

Make a note of the common mistakes made by players including you.

Focus on your strengths and exploit your opponent's weaknesses.

Be selective with the starting hands.

Try to adapt in different situations.

Remember it is of critical importance that you avoid high stakes when you venture into H.O.R.S.E. poker. Good players at high stake tables will strip you till you're left with nothing else but your shadow, and trust me prayers won't help. You've got to realize if the stakes are high the competition is going to be tough. The complexion of a high limit game can change very quickly. In a tight situation, maintain an equal amount of aggressiveness and caution. At times when players are getting used to a fast game, it is advisable to slow down the pace and break the momentum.

A significant amount of exposure in poker rooms will definitely fine tune your skill for the next level and help you be a better H.O.R.S.E. poker player. So pick a table and discover the player in you.