But what makes this game so unique? Why is it becoming a favorite among professional and casual players alike? This guide will cover everything you need to know, from the rules and hand rankings to key strategies that can give you an edge at the table.

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What Is Short Deck Poker?

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Short Deck Poker, also known as Six-Plus Hold’em, is a variation of Texas Hold’em where the deck consists of only 36 cards instead of 52. All twos, threes, fours, and fives are removed, significantly changing the game dynamics.

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This format originated in high-stakes games in Asia and gained global popularity in 2018. With its faster pace and increased likelihood of strong hands, Short Deck Poker quickly attracted top-tier players looking for a fresh challenge.

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How to Play Short Deck Poker

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Although it follows a structure similar to Texas Hold’em, Short Deck Poker has key differences:

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1. 1. Each player is dealt two hole cards.
2. 2. The dealer reveals three community cards (flop).
3. 3. Two more community cards are revealed in the turn and river rounds.
4. 4. Betting occurs after the flop, turn, and river.
5. 5. Unlike traditional Hold’em, there are no small or big blinds. Instead, the player on the button posts a blind bet, and all other players ante up.

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Short Deck Poker Hand Rankings

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Since the deck has fewer cards, hand rankings differ slightly from traditional poker. The biggest change? A flush ranks higher than a full house due to the decreased number of suited cards in play.

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Here’s a breakdown of hand rankings, from weakest to strongest:

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• - High Card – The highest-value card in your hand.
• - One Pair – Two cards of the same rank.
• - Two Pair – Two different pairs.
• - Three of a Kind – Three matching cards.
• - Straight – Five consecutive cards (regardless of suit).
• - Full House – A combination of three of a kind and a pair.
• - Flush – Five cards of the same suit (ranks higher than a full house).
• - Four of a Kind – Four matching cards.
• - Straight Flush – Five consecutive cards of the same suit.
• - Royal Flush – A straight flush from ten to ace.

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Some casinos may implement slight rule variations, so always check the house rules before playing.

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Winning Strategies for Short Deck Poker

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Transitioning from Texas Hold’em to Short Deck Poker isn’t difficult, but a few strategic adjustments are essential. Here are some key tips:

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1. Use the Rule of 3 and 6

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Instead of the traditional 4 and 2 rule used in Texas Hold’em, Short Deck players should apply the 3 and 6 rule to estimate their odds. Multiply your outs by 3 after the turn and by 6 after the flop for a rough probability of hitting a winning hand.

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2. Prioritize Straights Over Pairs

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With a reduced deck, hitting a straight is easier than in regular poker, making it a strong play. Unlike Hold’em, where pairs often dominate, Short Deck rewards aggressive play when drawing to a straight.

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3. Don’t Overestimate Pocket Pairs

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In standard poker, pocket pairs are often a strong starting hand. In Short Deck, however, the frequency of straights and flushes means that even high pairs can be vulnerable. Instead, look for connected hands that give you multiple drawing opportunities.

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4. Adapt to House Rules

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Some variations rank a straight lower than three of a kind, while others tweak the ace’s role. Always check the specific rules before sitting down to play.

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The Future of Short Deck Poker

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Poker is an ever-evolving game, and Short Deck Hold’em represents the next step in that evolution. Its fast-paced action and increased odds of high-ranking hands make it a thrilling option for players seeking something fresh yet familiar.

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Now that you know the rules and strategies, it’s time to find a casino and put your skills to the test. Good luck!

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