Online entertainment has evolved over the course of several years. Plus, the technological advancements have made it even better when it comes to the graphics, accessibility, and being able to get your entertainment options on your mobile device (among others). However, poker has been one of the main entertainment options for a long time.
We will be taking a look at some of the more entertaining variants that are featured on online media platforms. Whether you love to play or enjoy being a spectator, these variants are fun to watch. Especially when they come with their own set of rules. Let’s get started right now.
1. Texas Hold ‘Em
We begin with perhaps one of the most popular variants of poker. Since the dawn of the early 2000s poker boom, Texas Hold ‘Em had gained more exposure on television and on online poker platforms. The World Series of Poker had quickly become popular and many professional poker players (and even celebrities) have jumped in on the action.
Nonetheless, the gameplay and entertainment value are second to none. Every turn of the community cards may change the tide of the game in another direction. What might look like a promising and winning hand for one could turn into disaster – even when the river card is turned over.
Texas Hold ‘Em players are dealt two hole cards. Then, five community cards are used so a player can get the best five-card hand. It will be an excellent game for beginners and experienced players that enjoy it. We can credit Texas Hold ‘Em poker as one of the many card games that have influenced the gaming industry as a whole.
2. Omaha Poker
This variation is a similar variation compared to Texas Hold ‘Em. One difference is that Omaha will have a bit more of a strategic approach. Another is that you are dealt four hole cards rather than two. There will be three community cards that will be used to help you create a five-card hand.
You’ll also be able to make more decisions while deciding to up the stakes (if you so choose). It takes skill and strategic thinking to get a hang of this game. If you might not have a firm grasp on it, play free versions of Omaha poker so you can understand the rules and practice without risking any money. Also, there are variations such as Omaha Hi/Lo, which have similar rules.
3. Seven-Card Stud
While the popularity of this game has decreased in recent years, it’s a variant that shouldn’t be counted out. For Seven Card Stud, you are dealt both face-up and face-down cards while going through several rounds of betting. Plus, you get no community cards here – which means you will need to use your observation and memory to know what cards have been revealed.
For those who like to bluff strategically, this is the card game for you. Yet, it takes sharp focus and an understanding of the odds in order to get the hang of this game.
4. Five-Card Draw
For those who are starting out with poker, a Five-Card Draw could be a good variant to start with. It’s simple and easy to understand. You are dealt five cards and you can exchange as many as you like to ensure a better hand. While uncommon in major poker tournaments, it’s still appreciated by casual poker players alike. Yes, you can also find a Five-Card Draw game on many online poker platforms if you’re not feeling like playing Texas Hold ‘Em or Omaha.
5. Pineapple Poker
Get this: it’s a variant of Texas Hold ‘Em but it’s a crazy twist added to it. Here, you are given three hole cards. You need to discard one of those cards before the first bet is made. It will allow you to not only lay out a strategy but also be aware of any possible hand combinations that may arise.
Yes, it’s a fast-paced game that can really be exciting if you are already familiar with Texas Hold ‘Em. It’s more of a casual game so don’t expect it to be as high-profile and competitive as the original variant itself.
Final Thoughts
These five poker variants are among some of the most entertaining on online media platforms. Many of them are great for casual poker purposes while others may be great for high-stakes competitions and tournaments. Nonetheless, poker is a game that can be quite unpredictable – considering the fact that many say that it is a game of luck.