How to Play: California Split
Description:
California Split Poker is an exciting poker variant that combines elements of traditional poker with unique rules for splitting the pot. This game can be played with a ‘bug’ or a ‘joker’ wildcard. Here’s how to play:
Objective
The objective of California Split Poker is to win the pot by having the best hand or by strategically splitting the pot with another player. The game uses high-low split rules to determine the winners.
Setup
- Standard 52-card deck.
- 2 to 8 players.
- Each player is dealt five hole cards face down.
Game Play
1. Initial Deal
Each player is dealt five hole cards face down. A round of betting follows, starting with the player to the left of the dealer.
2. Drawing Phase
Players can discard any number of their hole cards and draw new ones from the deck to replace them. Another round of betting follows.
3. The Split
The twist in California Split Poker comes after the draw. The pot is split into two: one half for the best high hand and one half for the best low hand. A low hand must be 8-high or lower (Ace counts as low).
4. Showdown
After the final round of betting, players reveal their hands. The player with the best high hand wins half the pot, and the player with the best qualifying low hand wins the other half. If no low hand qualifies, the best high hand wins the entire pot.
Hand Rankings
California Split Poker follows standard poker hand rankings for high hands:
- Royal Flush
- Straight Flush
- Four of a Kind
- Full House
- Flush
- Straight
- Three of a Kind
- Two Pair
- One Pair
- High Card
For low hands, the best possible hand is A-2-3-4-5 (a “wheel”).
Strategy Tips
- Pay close attention to both high and low potential in your hand.
- Remember that an Ace can be both high and low, making it very valuable.
- Observe your opponents’ actions during the draw phase to get clues about their hands.
- Be cautious when betting if you’re unsure about having the best high or low hand.
Game Type: Triple Draw
Split Game: Yes
Cards Dealt: 5
Max Players: 8
Best Possible Hand(s):
Good Hands for This Game:
Wheel
Flush
Full House
