razz - Poker Variants

Getting Started: What is Razz Poker?

Imagine sitting around a table with a deck of cards in front of you, ready to embark on an exciting game with friends. Suddenly, you notice a unique poker variant called Razz. This low-ball poker game has rules and playing styles that are entirely different from the traditional Texas Hold'em. Today, let's peel back the curtain on Razz and explore this challenging and fun world.

The Charm of Low-Ball Poker

Low-ball poker is a special variant of poker that differs significantly from traditional poker. In low-ball poker, players aim to form the lowest possible hand using five cards, whether a straight, flush, or high card combination. This unique set of rules imbues low-ball poker with a high degree of strategy and unpredictability. Razz, as a variant of low-ball poker, particularly captivates poker enthusiasts with its distinctive charm.

A Brief Overview of Low-Ball Poker Rules

In low-ball poker, the goal is to create the lowest possible hand using five cards. Razz takes this rule to its extreme, emphasizing the importance of avoiding high cards, as they are detrimental in low-ball games. For instance, in low-ball, high cards like A, K, Q, and J are considered "bad" cards, while low cards like 2, 3, and 4 are "good" cards. Consequently, Razz players strive to avoid high cards and maximize their use of low cards to achieve the lowest possible hand.

In Razz, the ranking of cards is reversed: the lowest card (2) is the best, and the highest card (A) is the worst. This unique scoring system adds an extra layer of complexity and strategy to the game, making it both challenging and rewarding for players.