HORSE Poker - How to Play, Rules & Strategies

Introduction

Instead of a single game, how about playing a combination of five action-packed Poker games?

Sounds interesting? If yes, then HORSE is for you.

H.O.R.S.E is a combination of 5 games. The diverse range of games gives every player a fair chance to master the game they are interested in. Read further to learn how to play HORSE, its rules, and some strategies to master it.

What is a HORSE Game?

As mentioned above, HORSE is a combination of 5 games. The acronym stands for Hold’em (H), Omaha (O), Razz (R), Stud (S), and Eight-or-better (E). These are nothing but the variations of poker.

Many players consider HORSE as the ultimate form of Poker to experience the intensity and real flavour of the skill-based card game.

HORSE is the perfect game for players seeking new challenges to hone their skills and abilities.

How To Play HORSE Poker

Starting from Holdem, the game HORSE is played in its acronym order. Once the game has reached Eight or Better, the rotation returns to Holdem. There are no pot limits or no limit variations; the game is played with a fixed limit.

H - Hold'em

O - Omaha Hi/Lo

R - Razz

S - Seven Card Stud

E - Stud Hi/Lo (Eight or Better)

You can play two games in HORSE: Board games and Flop games. You play flop games such as Holdem and Omaha Hi/Lo with cards. These involve rounds such as a flop, turn, and river.

On the other hand, Razz Stud and Stud Hi/Lo come under the board game, where your cards are open for your opponent to see.

In some variations, you can play the game with a split pot. This means you will play Omaha Hi/Lo and Stud Hi/Lo, where the best and worst hands get pot.

The position varies depending on the game. In Flip games, the dealer starts the game. In Razz, the lowest board plays first; in Stud and Stud Hi/Lo, the highest board acts first.

Hand Rankings in HORSE Poker

The hand ranking in HORSE is based on the variation you play. If you are playing Holdem and Omaha, Royal Flush is the highest card, followed by Straight Flush. Seven-card stud poker, Stud Hi/Lo (Eight or Better) and Omaha Hi/Lo are also considered Royal Flush's best hands.

Whereas in Razz, Lo portion in Stud Hi/Lo and Omaha Hi/Lo, Wheel straight, a hand with five cards ranked ace through 5 is the highest.

How to Play Hold'em in HORSE Poker

The gameplay remains the same. However, you have to be crucial when it comes to hand selection. It will be challenging to bluff with limit holdem. Look for opportunities to secure value.

How to Play Omaha Hi/Lo in HORSE Poker

The gameplay remains the same; you have to look to compete for both the Hi and the Lo. Aim for making higher and stronger hands.

How to Play Razz in HORSE Poker

Razz is similar to a 7-card stud. The only difference is that instead of a Royal Flush, you aim to get a Wheel Straight. A wheel straight is formed by combining Ace, 2, 3, 4, and 5. Keep an eye on your opponent's game and look for low cards as starting hands.

How to Play Seven Card Stud in HORSE Poker

It is one of the oldest poker variants. You get two hole cards face down and a third card face up. In total, you get seven cards. To win, you make a five-card hand from these seven cards.

How to Play Stud Hi/Lo Eight or Better in HORSE Poker

If you are playing Stud Hi/Lo with a split pot, you must aim for both the Hi and the Lo portions. If your cards are not in your favour, you can always shaft your game by beating the weaker player. By looking at their board, you can get a chance to exploit them.

Comparison Of Games In HORSE

Rules of all Poker Variants in HORSE

Playing HORSE can be challenging as you must play five different games. It can be overwhelming for some players to manage bankrolls, remember all the rules, and adopt different strategies for each game. Here are some rules you can incorporate to win:

Play big pots in games of your specialisation

Always place bigger bets in games you specialise in. It may be possible that you are good at all the games but don’t bet big on all the games. Choose the game you are sure you will win and bet.

Focus on the Up Cards in Stud

The up cards are important in the Stud variant. Whether you have seen it or not, the card will give you an edge. The up card will also help you determine your card’s strength at the showdown.

Abide by the Poker Fundamentals

Fundamentals like position, bluffing tricks, and the importance of a strong starting hand will help you win the pot. Learn all the poker fundamentals before getting into the game.

Top HORSE Strategy Tips

Here are some strategies to improve your game:

• To begin any game, understand the game first and get through all the rules and strategies. If you are playing HORSE, you should know each variant played.
• It’s a game with a limited pot. This means you can throw players out of hand as often. This also means you can defend against draws.
• Stay alert, especially when the game switches from one variant to another.
• Most players tend to avoid playing Razz and Stud Eight or Better. This is where you can win the most.
• Lastly, play small stakes. This is more complicated than the Holdem or Omaha. There are five versions to play.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is HORSE poker played?

The game begins with Holdem, then rotates, and ends with Eight or Better.

What is a board game in HORSE?

Razz Stud and Stud Hi/Lo are the board games.

What are the flop games in HORSE?

Holdem and Omhara are the Flip games in HORSE.

What are the hand rankings used in HORSE poker?

Based on the variation you are playing, the hand ranking changes.

Is HORSE poker Popular?

Yes, HORSE is a popular poker game.

Conclusion

HORSE is an exciting mix of five games, giving players a well-rounded gaming experience. Games like Hold'em, Omaha Hi/Lo, Razz, Seven-Card Stud, and Stud Hi/Lo Eight-or-Better challenge players to diversify their strategies and adapt various formats.

You can win big with these 5-combination games. Practising lets you learn all five variants, even if you are a beginner. Remember to know the rules beforehand, and instead of mastering all 5, start with 1.