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How to Play: Razz

Description:

Razz Poker is a form of stud poker, and the objective is to achieve the lowest possible five-card hand. Unlike other poker variants, in Razz, straights and flushes do not count against the player, and the ace is always low.

Objective

The objective of Razz Poker is to have the lowest possible five-card hand out of the seven cards dealt to you during the game.

Game Setup

  1. Each player antes a small amount to form the initial pot.
  2. Each player is dealt two hole cards face down and one card face up (the door card).

Betting Rounds

Third Street

The player with the highest face-up card must make a forced bet (bring-in). Players can call, raise, or fold. Betting proceeds clockwise.

Fourth Street

Each player receives another face-up card. The player with the lowest visible hand starts the betting. A round of betting follows.

Fifth Street

Each player receives another face-up card. Again, the player with the lowest visible hand starts the betting. From this round onwards, the betting amounts double.

Sixth Street

Each player receives another face-up card. Betting starts with the player with the lowest visible hand.

Seventh Street (or The River)

Each player receives a final face-down card. The last round of betting starts with the player with the lowest visible hand.

The Showdown

After the final betting round, remaining players reveal their hole cards. The player with the lowest five-card hand wins the pot. In Razz, the best possible hand is A, 2, 3, 4, 5.

Hand Rankings

  • Best Hand: A, 2, 3, 4, 5 (also known as the wheel or the bicycle).
  • Other low hands are ranked by the highest card, so A, 2, 3, 4, 6 beats A, 2, 3, 5, 6.
  • Pairs count against you, so the best hand with no pairs or higher-ranked hands wins.

Tips for Playing

  • Remember that the objective is to achieve the lowest hand, so avoid pairs and high cards.
  • Pay attention to the upcards of your opponents to gauge their potential hands.
  • Be cautious with your bets, especially in the early rounds, until you have a strong low hand.

Game Type: Stud Style

Split Game: No

Cards Dealt: 5

Max Players: 8

Best Possible Hand(s):