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How to Play: Badacey

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Aliases: Best A-5, Best Badugi

Description:

A-5, Badugi Split Pot Poker is an engaging poker variant that combines elements of A-5 Lowball and Badugi. The game features a split-pot format, meaning the pot is divided between the best A-5 Lowball hand and the best Badugi hand. This game is played with a standard 52-card deck and is suitable for 2 to 7 players.

Objective

The objective of A-5, Badugi Split Pot Poker is to create the best possible low hand according to both A-5 Lowball and Badugi rules. Players strive to have the best hand in both categories to win a share of the split pot.

Hand Rankings

The game uses two distinct hand ranking systems:

  • A-5 Lowball Hand: In A-5 Lowball, the goal is to have the lowest possible five-card hand. Aces are low, and straights and flushes do not count against the hand. The best A-5 hand is A-2-3-4-5.
  • Badugi Hand: In Badugi, the aim is to have the lowest possible four-card hand, with all cards of different suits and ranks. The best Badugi hand is A-2-3-4 of different suits.

Gameplay

The game involves several rounds of drawing and betting:

  1. Each player is dealt five cards.
  2. First betting round begins, starting with the player to the left of the dealer.
  3. Players can draw up to five new cards, discarding unwanted cards and receiving replacements from the deck.
  4. Second betting round begins.
  5. Players can draw again up to five new cards.
  6. Third betting round begins.
  7. Players can draw one final time, up to five new cards.
  8. Final betting round begins.
  9. Showdown: Remaining players reveal their hands, and the pot is split between the best A-5 Lowball hand and the best Badugi hand.

Strategy Tips

  • Pay attention to the cards discarded by other players, as this can give you an idea of what they are aiming for.
  • Balance your focus between creating a strong A-5 Lowball hand and a strong Badugi hand to maximize your chances of winning the split pot.
  • Be cautious with betting and drawing strategies, as aggressive play can sometimes signal a strong hand to your opponents.

Conclusion

A-5, Badugi Split Pot Poker is a challenging and dynamic poker variant that tests your skills in two different lowball formats simultaneously. With the right strategy and a bit of luck, you can master this unique game and enjoy its strategic depth and excitement.


Game Type: Triple Draw

Split Game: Yes

Cards Dealt: 5

Max Players: 7

Best Possible Hand(s):




Good Hands for This Game:
Wheel


Nut Badugi


6 Low Badugi