Short Deck Poker: Everything You Need to Know
Short Deck Poker, also known as 6+ Hold’em, is a thrilling variation of Texas Hold’em that has gained immense popularity, especially among high-stakes players. Played with a 36-card deck (removing 2s through 5s), this game introduces unique rules and strategies, making it a fresh and exciting option for poker enthusiasts.
Key Features of Short Deck Poker
Modified Deck: The game is played with a reduced deck, excluding 2s, 3s, 4s, and 5s.
Hand Rankings: The rarity of certain hands, like flushes, alters their rankings compared to traditional poker. For instance, a flush outranks a full house.
Strategic Adjustments: The absence of low cards increases the likelihood of stronger hands, requiring players to adapt their strategies.
Position Importance: Position plays a critical role, with the last-to-act player gaining a notable advantage.
Higher Variance: The game’s dynamics demand meticulous bankroll management due to its higher variance.
How to Play Short Deck Poker
Short Deck Poker has its roots in high-stakes games in Macau, with poker legends like Tom Dwan and Phil Ivey popularizing it. Over time, it has been embraced by global poker communities, including its inclusion in the World Series of Poker (WSOP).
Gameplay Overview
Pre-Flop: Each player is dealt two hole cards, followed by a round of betting.
The Flop: After the revelation of three communal cards, there is another betting round.
The Turn: A fourth community card is dealt, leading to more betting.
The River: The final community card is revealed, followed by the last betting round.
Showdown: Remaining players reveal their hands, and the highest-ranking hand wins the pot.
Key Difference in Hand Rankings
Due to the reduced deck, certain hand rankings differ:
Flush beats Full House: With fewer cards per suit, flushes are rarer.
Ace as a Low Card: You can create a low straight by using an ace as “5” (A-6-7-8-9).
Strategy Tips for Short Deck Poker
To succeed in Short Deck Poker, consider these strategic insights:
Starting Hands: Favor premium hands like A-K suited or big pocket pairs. Suited connectors (e.g., K-Q suited) also have strong potential due to the increased likelihood of hitting flushes.
Play Aggressively: Big suited hands often outperform pocket pairs in this format. Being aggressive pre-flop and on the flop can help isolate opponents and maximize your chances of winning.
Be Cautious with Limping: While tempting, frequent limping can lead to challenging situations against opponents with stronger hands.
Account for Higher Frequencies: Pocket pairs and straights occur more often in Short Deck Poker compared to traditional Texas Hold’em. Adjust your expectations and decisions accordingly.
Use the Rule of 6 and 3: When calculating drawing odds, multiply your outs by 6 on the flop and by 3 on the turn for a quick estimate of your chances of hitting a draw.
Where to Play Short Deck Poker
Short Deck Poker is widely available both online and in live settings:
Online Platforms: Sites like PokerStars offer Short Deck games at various stakes, providing a great environment to practice and refine your skills.
Live Events: High-stakes tournaments and cash games, such as those hosted by Triton Poker, often feature Short Deck. While the WSOP scaled back on Short Deck events in 2024, its inclusion in future high-roller tournaments seems likely.
Why Play Short Deck Poker?
As a relatively new variant, Short Deck Poker offers a dynamic and evolving experience. Its action-packed nature, combined with strategic complexity, appeals to both seasoned professionals and newcomers looking to explore a fresh take on poker. Whether online or in live games, diving into Short Deck is a thrilling way to enhance your poker repertoire.
