Online poker offers a diverse array of game variants, each with its unique rules and strategies. Whether you’re looking to diversify your play or try something new, here are some of the best poker variants to explore online:

The Best Poker Variants to Play Online

1. Texas Hold’em

1.1. Overview

• Description: Texas Hold’em is the most popular and widely played variant of poker. Each player is dealt two private cards, and five community cards are dealt face-up. Players use the best combination of their private cards and community cards to make the highest hand.
• Popularity: It’s the staple game for most online poker rooms and major poker tournaments.

1.2. Why Play It?

• Familiarity: Most players are familiar with Texas Hold’em, making it easy to find games and competitions.
• Strategy Depth: The game offers a deep strategic experience with opportunities for bluffing, reading opponents, and advanced play.

2. Omaha

2.1. Overview

• Description: In Omaha, each player is dealt four private cards, and five community cards are dealt. Players must use exactly two of their private cards and three of the community cards to make the best hand.
• Variants: Omaha Hi is the most common, but Omaha Hi-Lo (or Omaha Eight-or-Better) is also popular, where the pot is split between the highest and lowest hands.

2.2. Why Play It?

• Action-Packed: The additional cards and required combinations create more action and larger pots.
• Strategic Complexity: The need to use exactly two hole cards and three community cards adds a layer of complexity to hand evaluation and strategy.

3. Seven-Card Stud

3.1. Overview

• Description: Seven-Card Stud is a classic poker variant where players receive seven cards, three face-down and four face-up. The goal is to make the best five-card hand from the seven cards dealt.
• Variants: Variations include Seven-Card Stud Hi-Lo, where the pot is split between the highest and lowest hands.

3.2. Why Play It?

• Skill-Based: With no community cards, the game relies heavily on memory and reading opponents.
• Less Common: Its rarity compared to Texas Hold’em means you might find less competition and more opportunity to showcase your skills.

4. Razz

4.1. Overview

• Description: Razz is a lowball version of Seven-Card Stud. The goal is to make the lowest possible hand, with straights and flushes not counting against you.
• Best Hand: The best possible hand is A-2-3-4-5 (known as the “wheel”).

4.2. Why Play It?

• Unique Challenge: Offers a different strategic challenge compared to traditional high-hand games.
• Specialized Strategy: Perfect for players who enjoy lowball strategies and looking for a different poker experience.

5. Pineapple

5.1. Overview

• Description: Pineapple is similar to Texas Hold’em, but each player is dealt three private cards instead of two. After the flop, players discard one of their three cards before proceeding with the hand.
• Variants: Crazy Pineapple is a variant where players discard one card after the turn instead of the flop.

5.2. Why Play It?

• Added Complexity: The extra card and discard option add a layer of complexity and strategy to the game.
• Variety: Provides a fresh twist on traditional Texas Hold’em.

6. Triple Draw Lowball

6.1. Overview

• Description: In Triple Draw Lowball, the goal is to make the lowest possible hand using five cards. Players have three opportunities to draw new cards and improve their hand.
• Best Hand: The best hand is A-2-3-4-5, with all other hands evaluated based on the lowest possible combination.

6.2. Why Play It?

• Strategic Depth: The multiple draw rounds and lowball hand rankings offer a unique strategic challenge.
• Less Common: Provides a change of pace from more common high-hand games.

7. Omaha Hi-Lo

7.1. Overview

• Description: Omaha Hi-Lo is similar to Omaha, but the pot is split between the highest and lowest hands. To qualify for the low half, a hand must have five cards of different ranks, all eight or lower.
• Strategy: Players must strategize to maximize both high and low hands, making it a complex and engaging variant.

7.2. Why Play It?

• Double the Action: With the pot being split, there are more opportunities for making profitable plays.
• Complex Strategy: Requires skill in managing both high and low hands and understanding split pot dynamics.

8. 2-7 Triple Draw

8.1. Overview

• Description: In 2-7 Triple Draw, the goal is to make the lowest possible five-card hand. Players can draw three times, and straights and flushes are considered high hands.
• Best Hand: The best hand is 2-3-4-5-7, known as the “wheel.”

8.2. Why Play It?

• Unique Lowball Experience: Offers a different lowball challenge with multiple draw opportunities.
• Strategic Gameplay: The draw rounds and lowball hand evaluations provide a strategic depth.

9. Triple Stud

9.1. Overview

• Description: Triple Stud is a combination of Seven-Card Stud, Razz, and Stud Hi-Lo. Players play three different rounds of stud, each with a different variant.
• Strategy: Each round has its own rules and strategies, requiring adaptability and skill in various poker forms.

9.2. Why Play It?

• Variety: Offers a comprehensive poker experience by combining multiple variants.
• Skill Showcase: Perfect for players who enjoy mastering different poker strategies.

Conclusion

Each poker variant brings its own unique set of rules and strategies, offering something for every type of player. Whether you’re drawn to the familiar gameplay of Texas Hold’em, the strategic complexity of Omaha, or the lowball challenge of Razz, exploring different variants can enhance your poker experience and skills. Online poker platforms provide a wealth of options to try out these variants, so dive in and discover which ones resonate most with your playing style.