Variations of Five Card Draw
Last post we discussed the basics to the poker game Five Card Draw. As mentioned, the game itself is pretty simple to learn and to play. But one thing that isn’t always simple about the game is the rules. In other poker games, like Texas Hold ‘Em and Seven Card Stud, the rules are pretty much the same no matter where you play and no matter who you play against. But Five Card Draw has many variations and to best be prepared, you should know what rules you are playing with and what variations are possible going in.
To start out with, Five Card Draw is not always played with blinds. Many times, because of the extreme luck factor of the game, all players are forced to pay antes, much like Stud games. While antes often cost less than blinds, they also mean that players have to pay to play every hand.
Another key difference that can be used is the number of cards a player can drop. In our simple explanation of the game, players were allowed to drop as many cards as they want and pick up the same amount after the first round of betting. In most casino games, however, players are only allowed to drop and pick up a maximum of three cards. This prevents players from dropping entire hands in hopes of getting lucky.
A final rule that can occasionally be seen also has to do with the number of cards a player can drop. Some venues will allow players to drop up to four cards if and only if they hold an ace in their hand. In this scenario, the player with the ace must show the card to every player at the table. He or she can then drop up to four cards to, presumably, try to pair their ace or better.
So those are some of the variations of Five Card Draw. None of the three are too complicated and once you know them, the game is still simple no matter where you play. Just be prepared to play under any set of rules. The worst thing a player can do etiquette-wise is to play without knowing the rules. Other players hate it and it could get you booted from the game. With that said, good luck as usual!
Filed under: Five Card Draw
