Poker Dynamic

In past posts, this blog has covered the best hands for Texas and Omaha Hold ‘Em games. In fact, most posts in general have dealt with the former, and to a lesser extent the latter, games. So why haven’t we explored Seven Card, or other, Stud games more?

The truth is that I simply do not like stud poker games. They move too slow and just are not as fun for me as Hold ‘Em games are. But for those still looking to play these games, I will make an effort to put the information out there needed to win.

Unlike most poker games, Seven Card Stud is a hard game to play. Every player has his or her own set of cards and consequently, big hands are not seen as often as they are in other games. This makes having the start to a good hand vital. As explained in our first post on Seven Card, every player starts the game with three cards. For obvious reasons, the best hand you can start with is a three-of-a-kind. Not only do you automatically have a good enough hand to win, but you also have a better probability of hitting a big hand like a full house or a four-of-a-kind than those with lesser starting hands.

In general, three-of-a-kind from the start is pretty hard to get. But having a pair is not. If you are dealt two aces or kings, treat them just like you would in a normal poker game. High pairs are always nice to have from the get go. After pairs, the next best hands are the ones that keep flush and straight possibilities open. Three diamonds or three cards in unison is a good way to start a big hand. Just remember you aren’t guaranteed to make anything after the blinds.

These are, in a nutshell, the best hands in seven-card. But the game is more about patience and smart betting than it is about starting hands. I’ll do my best to keep posting more tips on Stud games.

Filed under: Seven Card Stud