Poker is more than just one game—it’s a family of exciting and strategic card games. While Texas Hold’em may be the most famous, there are many other poker variants worth exploring. Each version has its own rules, pace, and strategies. Whether you’re new to poker or looking to spice things up, here are the best poker variants you should try this year.
Texas Hold’em – The King of Poker
Texas Hold’em is the most popular poker variant in the world. If you’ve seen poker on TV or played online, chances are it was Texas Hold’em.
How it works:
Each player gets two private cards (hole cards) and shares five community cards. You build the best five-card hand using any combination of your two and the shared cards.
Why try it:
It’s easy to learn, quick to play, and packed with strategy. It’s also the most available game online and in live poker rooms.
Omaha – A Strategic Step Up
Omaha is similar to Texas Hold’em but with a twist.
How it works:
You get four hole cards instead of two, and you must use exactly two of them with three community cards to make your hand.
Why try it:
With more cards, there are more possible combinations, which makes for bigger hands and more action. It’s great for players looking for more complexity and excitement.
Seven Card Stud – Classic and Challenging
Before Texas Hold’em took over, Seven Card Stud was the most played poker variant in America.
How it works:
Players receive seven cards over several rounds—some face up, some face down. The best five-card hand wins, but there are no community cards.
Why try it:
It tests memory and observation. You’ll need to track visible cards and read opponents more closely than in Hold’em.
Pineapple Poker – Fun and Fast-Paced
Pineapple poker adds a fun twist to Texas Hold’em.
How it works:
You start with three hole cards and discard one after the flop (in standard Pineapple) or before (in Crazy Pineapple). Then it plays like Texas Hold’em.
Why try it:
More starting cards means more hand possibilities and higher action. It’s ideal for casual games and players who enjoy variety.
Razz – Lowest Hand Wins
Razz flips the rules of traditional poker.
How it works:
Players try to make the lowest possible five-card hand using seven cards. Straights and flushes don’t count against you, and aces are always low.
Why try it:
It’s a refreshing mental shift and rewards completely different strategies. Razz is perfect for players who want to test a new way of thinking.
5-Card Draw – Back to Basics
This is the game many people learned at home growing up.
How it works:
Each player is dealt five cards. After a betting round, players can discard and draw new cards, then bet again.
Why try it:
It’s simple, fast, and easy to learn. While it lacks the depth of some other variants, it’s great for casual games or quick sessions.
Short Deck Hold’em – Fewer Cards, More Action
Also called 6+ Hold’em, this variant uses a deck stripped of cards 2 through 5.
How it works:
The game is played like Texas Hold’em, but the hand rankings change slightly (e.g., a flush beats a full house).
Why try it:
With fewer cards, hands are stronger, and action is more intense. It’s a popular choice among high-stakes players and thrill-seekers.
Badugi – A Unique Lowball Game
Badugi comes from Asia and plays very differently from traditional poker games.
How it works:
Players get four cards and aim to make the lowest hand possible with one card of each suit and no pairs.
Why try it:
It’s fun, challenging, and totally different. Badugi rewards precision and planning. If you want something truly fresh, this is it.
Final Thoughts
Trying new poker variants keeps the game exciting and helps you grow as a player. Whether you want more action, deeper strategy, or just something new to learn, there’s a poker variant out there for you. This year, step out of your comfort zone and give one (or several) of these games a shot. You might find a new favorite.
