Poker Horse Rules

The poker variety HORSE is technically not a poker variety in itself.  As a matter of fact, it is the result of combining five poker type games – Texas Hold’em, Omaha, Razz, Seven Card Stud, and Seven Card Stud Eight or Better.  When the initials of each of these five types are taken, the word HORSE is formed.  In playing HORSE, you basically have to familiarize and improve yourself in each poker variety.

The Fundamentals of HORSE

Players usually don’t consider HORSE as a poker variety to invest in, primarily because it’s very hard to master.  To excel in this poker type, you practically have to excel in all the poker varieties included in this game.  HORSE is usually played in tournaments and is occasionally available in certain poker rooms.  An example of a tournament where HORSE is played is the World Series of Poker.

When playing HORSE, there are usually limited options such that players can’t choose which of the five poker varieties to play in.  What makes HORSE different from other poker types is the structure by which you should play it.

In round with HORSE as the poker type, Texas Hold’em is usually the first game to be played.  Omaha follows, then Razz, then Seven Card Stud, and finally, Eight or Better.  Each game should be played equally with equal time allotment for each.  The pot limit varies depending on the players’ or poker site’s discretion.

How to Play HORSE

Because HORSE makes use of five poker types, it typically requires players to have a high level of skill in playing the game.  Certain poker variations in HORSE are not popular and, sometimes, not even played by most players at all.  This is true for games such as Razz and Eight or Better.  However, if you are a player who thinks you are knowledgeable enough in each of the five types, then maybe you can give HORSE a try.

The key to winning a HORSE tournament or round is strategy.  You have to capitalize on your strong points and strengthen or conceal your weak points.  Definitely, your level of competency can’t be the same for each poker type.  You will certainly be better at certain poker game types than others, so make sure that you make the most out of the poker types you are good at.  As for the poker types where you’re not as good, make sure that you train as much as you can in these types.  Also, spot the weaknesses of your opponents.   By doing this, you can attack their weaknesses while at the same time concealing yours.